Rock Tub Hot Springs offers easy access, warm soaking, and beautiful Sierra Nevada views
Rock Tub Hot Springs is located in the Long Valley Caldera, which formed over 700,000 years ago when a volcano collapsed during a massive eruption. The spring features a single soaking tub set within the ancient caldera, east of Mammoth Lakes.
This popular spot is well-loved for its warm water, easy access, and beautiful views of the snow-covered Sierra Nevada.
Many other hot springs are found nearby, including Crab Cooker Hot Springs, Shepherd Hot Springs, Hilltop Hot Springs, Crowley Hot Springs, and the geothermal wonder - Hot Creek Geological Site.
The best way to enjoy this area is to spend a few days exploring its many geothermal features.
Rock Tub Hot Springs Soaking Experience
The soaking tub is made of rocks and concrete and is about 3 feet deep. It is large enough for up to six people. Hot water flows through a long pipe from the source on the hillside. The tub can be drained and refilled by removing the bottom plug.
Water temperatures are cooler than at Shepherd or Crab Cooker Hot Springs, usually ranging from 90 to 96°F (32-35°C).
Although the tub sits near the road, it is tucked down the hill and feels private when no one else is around, which is uncommon on spring and summer weekends.
Parking is available in the lower area near the tub. Please help keep the hot springs clean by packing out all trash.
Rock Tub Hot Springs Camping & Lodging
Camping is not allowed at the hot springs but there are turnarounds and camping areas nearby. Brown's Owens River Campground is located 5 miles away.
The closest accommodations are available in Mammoth Lakes, 13 miles west.
Affordable vacation rentals for short and long term stay at Mammoth Lakes
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Rock Tub Hot Springs | Facts
Location: 12 miles east of Mammoth Lakes • California • USA
Best time: From spring through fall
Development: Primitive
Clothing: Optional
Amenities: None
Hiking distance: Short
Road Access: Any vehicle when roads are dry
Day-use fees: None
Managed by: Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
Elevation: 7,000 ft (2,134 m)
Water T° (source): Over 110°F (43°C)
Water T° (pool): 90-96°F (32-35°C)
More Adventures
Directions to Rock Tub Hot Springs
From the junction US-395 and Benton Crossing Road,
- Travel 1.1 miles northeast to the gravel Whitmore Tubs Road
- Turn left onto Whitmore Tubs Road and drive about 1 mile to a small dirt road on the right
- Turn right and continue 0.1 miles to the tub.
Things have changed greatly since the 70’s when I explore most of the hot springs from California to Colorado. It’s amazing to find the information so readily compared to my search with the USGeothermal Book. everything was plotted out on a map and I had to find them the ol’fashion way with a compass. Some springs were used as cattle trough drinking, others were behind barbed wire fencing. The best of course were the pools built along side rivers. Such an exciting time. Thank you for taking the effort in creating this website.
This is an amazing place. I wonder what it looked like in the 1970s.