California is a state blessed with amazing hot springs. There are various regions around this long state that feature these natural mineral waters. Happy soaking!
Natural Hot Springs in California
One of the meccas for hot springs vacation is Desert Hot Springs, CA, known as California’s Spa City. It’s actually the world’s only destination with both hot and cold mineral spring aquifers. There are more than a dozen hot springs resort in this town alone. Plus downtown Palm Springs is less than a 20 minute drive from nearly all of them.
California Hot Springs Map
Guide to California’s Natural Hot Springs
California is rich in public and private hot springs, attracting many travelers around the year who simply visit to enjoy the therapeutic and healing powers of the mineral-rich waters. Some of these springs are accessible via simple and challenging hiking trails, whereas others are managed by hotel and spa services, also offering numerous accommodation options for overnight stays.
Let’s take a look at some of the most popular hot springs in California.
Calistoga Spa Hot Springs
Calistoga Hot Springs, situated in Calistoga in the Napa Valley, comprises several smaller springs that have a varying temperature range. Since the 1900s, a spa has also operated in the area offering facilities such as general spa services, a wellness center, and mud baths. Calistoga Spa Hot Springs comprises of four small mineral pools, and a large one referred to as the Roman Pool.
Each of the four smaller pools features a variety of pools. These include a whirlpool, a lap pool with multiple lanes, a soaking pool, and a wading pool for kids. Of the three adult pools, the lap pool has the lowest temperature at 80oF or 26oC, the soaking pool has a temperature of 100oF or 37oC, and the whirlpool has the greatest temperature, regulated at 104oF or 40oC.
Patios with day beds, sun loungers, and barbecue pits have been set up around the pool area.
Crowley Hot Springs
The Crowley Hot Springs in California, often referred to as the Wild Willy’s, are situated in the Mammoth Lakes area, close to the Hot Creek Geothermal area. The springs can be accessed after hiking up a 2-mile path.
The site boasts two pools set in lush green plains and surrounded by breathtaking views of the mountains. The first pool is around 10 feet wide and has a depth of around 3 feet, offering a warm and relaxing temperature. The second pool has is slightly bigger in size, and is hotter as well. The waters are an intense blue, and rich in minerals, perfect for a dip to refresh your body and mind.
Deep Creek Hot Springs
The Deep Creek Hot Springs flow out from the Mojave River in the northern part of the Mojave Desert at the foot of the San Bernardino Mountain Range. They can be accessed via the Pacific Crest Trail or the Freedom Trail.
Under the management of the San Bernardino National Forest, the area features a number of pools, filled with both hot and cold waters. The soaking area is surrounded by exotic views of the woodlands and the conifer forests.
So which of these hot springs in California are you planning to visit next? We’re sure your trip will be an enjoyable one!
