• Shepherd Hot Springs is located on the east side of the Sierra Nevada Mountains
• The soaking tub is about 2 feet deep with inner ledges
One of many amazing hot springs in the geothermal Long Valley, Shepherd Hot Springs features breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada and the White Mountain Range.
Shepherd Hot Springs is in existence due to the geothermal sources that heat the water bubbling up from underneath the Earth's crust. The hot water is transferred from the source through the pipe into a rock and concrete soaking tub that can accommodate four to five people. The tub is about 2 feet deep with inner ledges that are used as benches.
Because the water is piped from the primary source, the temperature is very hot - over 135°F. So, be careful and wait for the water in the pool to cool down. Also, the temperature can be adjusted with a valve on the pipe that controls the hot water inflow.
This shallow tub is a fantastic place to relax while enjoying epic views of the meadow with the mountains in the background.
The best time of the year to visit is spring, summer, and fall. Shepherd Hot Springs is easily accessible by almost all passenger vehicles when the roads are dry. This location is very popular and on holidays and weekends and gets crowded.
Crab Cooker Hot Springs is located 0.5 miles from Shepherd Hot Springs and can be easily accessible by foot.
Camping & Lodging
There are plenty camping opportunities in the area including primitive and semi-developed. Camping is allowed on public land but do not camp near the hot springs. Brown's Owens River Campground is located 5 miles away.
The closest accommodations are available in Mammoth Lakes, 12 miles away.
Affordable vacation rentals for short and long term stay at Mammoth Lakes
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Shepherd Hot Springs | Facts
Location: 12 miles east of Mammoth Lakes • California • USA
Open: Year-round
Development: Primitive
Clothing: Optional
Amenities: None
Hiking distance: Short
Road Access: Four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended
Day-use fees: None
Managed by: BLM
Elevation: 6,950 ft (2,118 m)
Water T° (source): Over 135°F (57°C)
More Adventures
Directions to Shepherd 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 2 miles to the small dirt road on the right
- Turn right, just before a stand-alone tree, and continue 0.5 miles to the parking.