20 Best Northern California Hot Springs You Should Visit

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aerial view of crab cooker hot spring in northern california near mammoth lakes

Northern California is home to numerous hot springs. Depending on what you like, you can hike to remote hot springs or visit developed resorts with mineral pools. Some of the most popular springs include Travertine, Wild Willy’s, Skyes, Harbin, Wilbur and Orr Hot Springs Resort.

In this guide, we’re going to show you everything you need to know about the top northern California hot springs including where to find them on a map.

Our Northern Cali Experience

woman bathing in wild willy's hot spring
Kristen soaking in a northern California hot spring

We visited many of the hot springs listed in this guide as part of a west coast road trip in November 2021. During this trip, we drove to several hot springs in our bath robes and it’s been one of our favorite travel memories to date. Read more about us.

When we first set out to soak in as many northern Cali hot springs as possible, we didn’t know how many beautiful hot springs California actually had. This guide will be a work in progress as we continue to re-visit California and check more of these gorgeous hot springs off our bucket list.

We’ll show you how to make the most of your time.

Different Types Of Hot Springs

Before we get started, it’s important you know about the three different kinds of springs because depending on your taste, one option may be better suited to your needs.

Here are three main types of hot springs we will discuss in this guide:

  • Natural Hot Spring – This is a naturally occurring spring heated by geothermal energy from earth’s interior. You can basically think of these springs as hot holes in the ground and they are often found near active volcanic activity.
  • Man Made Tub – This type of spring often features a small wooden, ceramic or concrete tub fed by a naturally occurring hot spring. These tubs are hybrid models because they are partially man made.
  • Mineral Pools – These large springs contain water filled with natural minerals such as calcium carbonate, magnesium sulfate, potassium, and sodium sulfate. Mineral pools are usually found within a hotel setting and require an entrance fee. Many of the resorts discussed later in this guide fall into this category.

After visiting many hot springs throughout the world including an Onsen in Japan, we tend to prefer natural hot springs. We love the primitive setting because this is where we can truly relax.

Natural hot springs are usually free to visit, but sometimes they require a hike. However, most of the time natural hot springs have an epic view so there is a reward for your efforts. Each hot spring is unique and there is no right or wrong way to enjoy a soak. It all just comes down to personal preference.

Travel Tip: Northern California is home to seven active volcanoes which is why we can find numerous hot springs in this region.

Where Are The Hot Springs In Northern California?

view of road with mountains in background
A road leading to the Sierra Nevada mountain range in California

The entire state of California is filled with hot springs. Northern California boasts the majority of the natural hot springs, while Southern California is home to commercialized mineral pools.

Northern California makes up the 48 counties in the northernmost region of the state including cities such as San Francisco, Sacramento and Fresno. This region also includes epic topography such as the Redwood Forest, Mount Shasta, the Sierra Nevada, Yosemite Valley, part of Lake Tahoe and various sections of the Central Valley.

Southern California is the area stretching from Los Angeles all the way down to San Diego so no matter where you go in this beautiful state, you’ll always find a hot spring.

In our opinion, the best natural hot springs in Northern California are east of the Sierra Nevada Mountain range. This is where you will find numerous springs with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Let’s take a quick look at where to find popular hot springs in Northern California on a map so you can make an itinerary for your trip.

Hot Springs Northern California Map

This hot spring guide focuses on the springs in the northern region of the state. You can also use this link here to access our northern california hot springs map for exact locations.

Unless you are driving a multi-week California road trip, these hot springs will be difficult to visit all in one go. However, they are clustered in a handful of areas so you can easily incorporate certain groups of springs into your California trip.

To make this guide easy to follow, we’ve broken down our Northern California hot spring list by area:

  • Bridgeport
  • Mammoth Lakes
  • Carmel Valley and Big Sur
  • Calistoga
  • Hot Springs Northwest of Sacramento
  • Hot Springs North of Lake Tahoe

You can even check off a few hot springs if you are driving from Las Vegas to Death Valley and then on to Yosemite National Park as you will pass by Mammoth Lakes.

Need a campground in Northern California? Take advantage of our exclusive 30 day free trial of The Dyrt PRO to find a spot nearby or snag a reservation at sold out campgrounds with Dyrt Alerts.

Bridgeport California Hot Springs

Bridgeport, California lies north of Mammoth Lakes and south of Lake Tahoe. It is the back bone of the Sierra Mountain range making it a recreational playground.

This region is popular for outdoor adventures and hiking because it provides access to the high Sierra canyons, peaks, lakes and numerous hot springs.

1. Travertine Hot Springs

woman in robe and hat at Travertine hot spring in northern california
Kristen standing along the edge of Travertine Hot Spring
  • Type: Natural hot spring with some man-made portions
  • Location: About 2.0 miles southeast of Bridgeport (off Jack Sawyer Road)
  • Parking: Google maps
  • Price: Free
  • Open: Year round
  • Clothing: Optional
  • Features: Many different pools, closest hot spring to Yosemite National Park
  • Services: Drop toilet
  • Temperature: Varies depending on the pool

Travertine hot springs is a primitive natural located very close to Yosemite National Park in Bridgeport. It features travertine terraces with natural pools and one ADA-accessible man made tub.

As you sit in the pools at Travertine hot springs, you’re treated to an epic view of the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountain range. But since this location is easily accessible and close to a national park, it can be extremely busy.

Further Reading: Complete guide to visiting Travertine Hot Springs

2. Buckeye Hot Springs

Hot stream swirling around large rocks at a Northern California hot spring
Hot steam surrounding large rocks at Buckeye Hot Spring
  • Type: Natural hot spring
  • Location: About 10.0 miles southwest of Bridgeport (off Buckeye Road)
  • Parking: Google maps
  • Price: Free
  • Open: Year round
  • Clothing: Optional
  • Features: 6 pools, thermal water cascade, camping nearby
  • Services: Drop toilet
  • Temperature: Varies based on pool, usually between 95°-110°F

A visit to Buckeye hot springs will require a short hike down a fairly steep hill. As you climb down, you will find two natural hot tubs known as the Upper Pools. These are the warmest tubs in the area and both offer stunning views.

If you continue to down the path to Buckeye Creek, there are 4 smaller man made pools which are fed by the naturally occurring stream.

Mammoth Lakes Hot Springs

Mammoth Lakes is located along scenic Highway 395 connecting Death Valley, Yosemite National Park, Alabama Hills and Lake Tahoe. It’s a beautiful drive we highly recommend. The closest airport is Mammoth Yosemite Airport, but it might be easier to fly into larger airports nearby such as Los Angeles, San Francisco or Las Vegas.

Depending on your starting point, it would be 5 to 6 hour drive to the Mammoth Lakes hot springs area. If you are planning a winter trip, you might need to account for more time.

Most of the hot springs in Mammoth Lakes are man made tubs with the exception of Wild Willy’s which is a collection of many natural hot springs.

3. Shepard Hot Springs

shepard hot spring in northern california
Visitors in Shepard Hot Springs near Mammoth Lakes
  • Type: Hot spring tub
  • Location: Off Whitmore Tubs Road (about 15 mi east of Mammoth Lakes)
  • Parking: Google maps
  • Price: Free
  • Open: Year round
  • Clothing: Optional
  • Features: Single tub, fits 4 people
  • Services: None
  • Temperature: Controlled by a valve, variable but about 100°F

Shepard springs is a lone cement pool. A nearby pipe directs hot water straight into the tub and the temperature can be adjusted accordingly from the valve on the pipe.

This hot spring is usually one of the busiest in Mammoth Lakes because it is easy to find. Unlike the other hot springs in the area which require driving on dirt roads, Shepard Springs is located right next to the parking lot.

4. Crab Cooker Hot Springs

Drone shot of woman bathing in crab cooker hot spring
Drone shot of Kristen sitting on the edge of Crab Cooker Hot Spring
  • Type: Hot spring tub
  • Location: Off Benton Crossing Rd (about 15 mi east of Mammoth Lakes)
  • Parking: Google maps
  • Price: Free
  • Open: Year round
  • Clothing: Optional
  • Features: Fits 5-7 adults, man made
  • Services: None
  • Temperature: 95°-110˚F (controlled by a value but usually on the hotter side)

Similar to many of the hot springs in Mammoth Lakes, Crab Cooker is fed with a pipe from the source. The temperature can then be adjusted with a valve, but can become very warm if the valve is left open.

When we first arrived at Crab Cooker hot spring, the water was extremely hot and we could not comfortably get into the tub. We had to let the temperature of the water cool before we could go in.

Further Reading: How to visit Crab Cooker hot springs

5. Hilltop Hot Springs (or Pulky’s Pool)

woman bathing in hilltop hot spring in northern california
Kristen enjoying the views in Hilltop Hot Spring
  • Type: Hot spring tub
  • Location: Off Benton Crossing Road (about 15 mi east of Mammoth Lakes)
  • Parking: Google maps
  • Price: Free
  • Open: Year round
  • Clothing: Optional
  • Features: Fits about 4-6 people, man made tub
  • Services: None
  • Temperature: 95°-110˚F (controlled by a valve and usually on the cooler side)

Hilltop hot spring is located close to the parking lot off Benton Crossings Road. But unfortunately this is a smaller tub and can be very crowded due to its location.

A small 0.25 mile walk is required to reach Hilltop hot spring from the parking lot. However, this spring is one of our favorite because it offers postcard perfect views.

Further Reading: Hilltop hot springs first time visitor guide

6. Wild Willy’s Hot Springs (or Crowley Hot Spring)

man walking down boardwalk with mountains in background
Mark walking along the boardwalk to Wild Willy’s Hot Spring
  • Type: Natural hot spring
  • Location: Off Benton Crossing Road (15 mi east of Mammoth Lakes)
  • Parking: Google maps
  • Price: Free
  • Open: Year-round
  • Clothing: Optional
  • Features: Fits 20+ people in 4 pools
  • Services: Drop toilets
  • Temperature: Variable depending on the pool, 95°-105˚F

Wild Willy’s hot spring is the most unique hot spring near Mammoth Lakes. Every natural pool in this location showcases incredible views of the Sierra Nevadas.

Visiting this spring includes a short 0.25 mile long trail down a boardwalk to a tiered hot stream with two pools. There is an additional heart shaped pool in the distance if you want to escape the crowds.

Further Reading: How to visit Wild Willy’s hot springs

Where To Stay In Mammoth Lakes

Mammoth Lakes is a beautiful ski resort town about 15 miles from the hot springs. The town is filled with traditional Alpine Lodges and we have stayed in the town ourselves several times now.

We recommend staying here if you are driving to Yosemite from Las Vegas, Death Valley or anywhere else Southeast of the park.

Here are the best hotels by guest rating, price and location in Mammoth Lakes:

Planning to stay in Mammoth Lakes?

Read our comprehensive guide to the 10 top rated hotels in Mammoth Lakes CA to find the perfect hotel in your price range.

Carmel Valley and Big Sur Hot Springs

Big Sur features a stunning section of California coastline stretching from Carmel to San Simeon. It is the most popular stop on the Pacific Coast Highway road trip from San Francisco to San Diego.

It’s even sometimes referred to as the longest and most undeveloped coastline in the United States. So there is no wonder why this area is a treasure trove for gorgeous hiking trails and hidden hot springs.

7. Tassajara Zen Mountain Center

Large wooden temple surrounded by fall foliage in Northern California
Photo courtesy of Tassajara Zen Mountain Center
  • Type: Hot spring tub
  • Location: 14 miles up a winding one lane dirt road off Tassajara Road (two hours southeast of Carmel)
  • Parking: Google maps
  • Price: Day use rate $35 for adults + $15 for children
  • Open: Guests in summer only (Apr-Sep)
  • Clothing: Optional in the bathhouse but appropriate attire required in public
  • Features: Traditional Japanese style bathhouse
  • Services: Bathhouse, meals, classes, accommodation

The Tassajara Zen Mountain Center is located in a remote section of the Ventana Wilderness in the Los Padres National Forest inland from Big Sur. It’s the first Soto Zen Monastery established outside of Asia.

From April to September, outside guests can reserve day or overnight use. Your visit will include access to natural hot springs, vegetarian meals, yoga retreats, hiking trails and meditation classes.

>> For more information, visit the official website here.

8. Esalen Institute

A large pool inside the Esalen Institute on the California Coast
Photo courtesy of the Esalen Institute
  • Type: Hot spring tub
  • Location: about 15 miles south of Big Sur
  • Parking: Google maps
  • Price: Accommodation or volunteer only
  • Open: Year-round
  • Clothing: Optional
  • Features: Seven man made tubs
  • Services: Mineral baths, whale watching, massage, bookstore, yoga, accommodation

The Esalen Institute was founded in 1962 as a spiritual retreat center. This 27 acre institute showcases the stunning cliffs of Big Sur and encourages holistic learning to all visitors.

You will need a reservation to visit Esalen. But stays include accommodation, three meals per day, various classes, 24 hours use of the hot springs, art barn and mediation hut.

>> To book a reservation, visit the official website here.

9. Skyes Hot Spring

Photo courtesy of Natural Atlas
  • Type: Hot spring tub
  • Location: Nestled in the Ventana Wilderness near Big Sur
  • Parking: Google maps
  • Price: Free
  • Open: Year round
  • Clothing: Optional
  • Features: 10 mile hike one way, 4 river crossings, small tub that fits about 2 people
  • Services: Camping

If you are up for a challenge, this is the hot spring for you because a visit requires a 20 mile strenuous hike with 1,640m of elevation gain. It’s one of the most popular backcountry northern California hot springs.

Skyes hot spring was recently closed for a few years due to over capacity and natural disasters, but it has since reopened in April 2021. Check out AllTrails here for recent comments about the hiking trail.

Calistoga Hot Springs

Calistoga has put itself on the map as a wellness retreat region brimming with hot springs, mineral pools, mud baths and wineries. It’s situated at the north end of Napa Valley and the town literally sits on top of a geothermal mineral field.

Many of the hot springs in Calistoga feature mineral pools which are believed to have natural healing properties. However, most of the resorts in this region will require an entrance fee.

10. Calistoga Spa Hot Springs

Stunning backdrop of the Calistoga Hot Spring with pools and palm trees
Photo courtesy of Calistoga Spa Hot Spring
  • Type: Mineral pool
  • Location: Calistoga along Lincoln Ave
  • Parking: Google maps
  • Price: Varies based on service
  • Open: Year round
  • Clothing: Required in public areas
  • Features: Mineral pools and mud baths
  • Services: Massage, yoga, accommodation
  • Temperature: 4 mineral pools ranging from 80°-104°F

Calistoga spa hot springs has four mineral pools ranging in temperature from 80°-104°F. Additional services include massages, volcanic ash mud baths, steam rooms and accommodation.

Visitors love the 80°F lap pool because it’s the perfect place to take in the beautiful mountain views. Or you like it warm, check out the 104°F whirlpool during your stay.

>> For more information, visit the official website here.

11. Roman Spa Hot Spring Resort

A small and large hot spring pool inside the Roman Spa in Calistoga, CA
Photo courtesy of Roman Spa Hot Spring Resort
  • Type: Mineral pool
  • Location: Calistoga along Lincoln Ave
  • Parking: Google maps
  • Price: Varies based on service
  • Open: Year round
  • Clothing: Required in public areas
  • Features: Mineral pools and mud baths
  • Services: Massage, yoga, accommodation, relaxation room
  • Temperature: 3 mineral pools ranging from 92°-104°F

Roman Spa offers 3 different mineral springs featuring both indoor and outdoor pools. There is an extensive spa menu with aromatherapy or mud bath options.

The resort features Tuscan-style accommodation with beautiful flowering mediterranean gardens, private patios and numerous fountains. Check out the private suites with Roman spa-like bathrooms adorned with stunning mosaic tile.

>> For more information, visit the official website or book a room here.

12. Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort And Mineral Spring

A large pool inside Dr. Wilkinson's Backyard Resort and Mineral Spring
Photo courtesy of Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort
  • Type: Mineral pool
  • Location: Calistoga along Lincoln Ave
  • Parking: Google maps
  • Price: Varies based on service
  • Open: Year round
  • Clothing: Required in public areas
  • Features: Mineral pools and mud baths
  • Services: Body services, hydrotherapy, massages, yoga, accommodation
  • Temperature: 3 mineral pools ranging from 75°-104°F

Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort showcases a funky retro style with minimalist modern upgrades. They offer 3 mineral pools ranging in temperature along with a complete menu of spa services.

There are two outdoor mineral pools, a hot tub filled with mineral water, a sundeck, steam rooms and mud baths. Additional amenities include weekend brunch and wine night.

>> For more information, visit the official website or book a room here.

13. Calistoga Motor Lodge And Spa

Two blue bath tubs at the Calistoga Motor Lodge and Spa
Photo courtesy of Calistoga Motor Lodge and Spa
  • Type: Mineral pool
  • Location: Calistoga along Lincoln Ave
  • Parking: Google maps
  • Price: Varies based on service
  • Open: Year round
  • Clothing: Required in public areas
  • Features: Mineral pools, wading pool and relaxation rooms
  • Services: Massages, dining, accommodation

Calistoga Motor Lodge and Spa stands out on this list with it’s chic 1950’s vibe. Visitors can enjoy an outdoor lap pool, a wading pool and an indoor whirlpool each fed by the natural mineral spring.

Another highlight of the property is the MoonAcre Bath. This bath features geothermal water, a beautiful contemporary design, lavish spa garden and indoor relaxation rooms.

>> For more information, visit the official website or book a room here.

Hot Springs Northwest Of Sacramento

This next section will feature Northern California hot springs northwest of Sacramento.

14. Harbin Hot Springs

Multiple pools at Harbin Hot Springs in northern California
Photo courtesy of Harbin Hot Springs
  • Type: Mineral pool
  • Location: About 4.0 mi from Middletown down Harbin Springs Rd (about 2 hrs northwest of Sacramento)
  • Parking: Google maps
  • Price: 6 hour day visit $35 per adult (Mon-Thu), $45 (Fri-Sun) with additional services available
  • Open: Year round
  • Clothing: Optional
  • Features: Main side pool with eight additional pools
  • Services: Sundeck, sauna, changing area, showers, restroom
  • Temperature: Varying from cold plunge pool to hot pools

Located in Middletown, the main attractions at Harbin Hot Springs are the various mineral pools. Each individual pool is fed by a different spring found somewhere on the property.

You can try the newly renovated trellis area with a hot plunge pool. Or take a dip in the health services pool for professional aquatic bodywork treatments. The main pool at Harbin is also ADA-accessible.

>> For more information, visit the official website here.

15. Wilbur Hot Springs

The beautiful large wooden deck and pool at Wilbur Hot Springs
Photo courtesy of Wilbur Hot Springs
  • Type: Mineral pool and hot spring tubs
  • Location: About 30 mi west of Williams (1 hr 30 mins northwest of Sacramento)
  • Parking: Google maps
  • Price: Day use $59 on weekdays and $65 on weekends, additional services available
  • Open: Year round
  • Clothing: Optional in baths but required in public
  • Features: Japanese onsen style Fluminarium
  • Services: Community kitchen, massage, accommodation, dry sauna
  • Temperature: 3 long flumes ranging from 100°-109°F

Located in Williams, the highlight of Wilbur’s hot springs is the natural mineral spring water. These hot springs hold healing properties which has made Wilbur’s extremely popular for centuries.

The main attractions are three long flumes with an average temperature of 100°F, 105°F and 109°F. But you will also find a spring-fed swimming pool, outdoor mineral flume, dry sauna and a cold plunge pool.

>> For more information, visit the official website here.

16. Vichy Springs Resort and Inn

A water feature and hot spring pool at Vichy Springs Resort and Inn
Photo courtesy of Vichy Springs Resort and Inn
  • Type: Hot spring tub
  • Location: 5.0 mi from Ukiah (2 hrs 40 mins northwest of Sacramento)
  • Parking: Google maps
  • Price: $35/2 hrs, $55/3 hrs, $85/person all day (Oct-Apr)
  • Open: Year round with limited hours depending on the time of year
  • Clothing: Required
  • Features: Mineral baths, hot pool, plunge pool, Chemisal Falls pool (30 min hike to waterfall)
  • Services: Accommodation, hiking trails, meeting spaces
  • Temperature: Pool and baths ranging from 90°-104°F

Located in Ukiah, Vichy Springs was established in 1854 making this the most historic Northern California hot spring on our list. This property is a hot spring resort combined with a country inn featuring several rooms and cottages.

The naturally carbonated Vichy mineral baths have been in use for over 150 years. Visitors can enjoy 14 Vichy tubs with outside or indoor soaking options. An olympic sized heated swimming pool is open seasonally from May to October.

>> For more information, visit the official website here.

17. Orr Hot Springs Resort

A wooden yurt at Orr Hot Springs Resort in Northern California
Photo courtesy of Orr Hot Springs Resort
  • Type: Mineral pool and hot spring tub
  • Location: 30 mi from Ukiah (3 hrs northwest of Sacramento)
  • Parking: Google maps
  • Price: Day use is $50/person and reservations are required
  • Open: Year round
  • Clothing: Optional
  • Features: Covered tub, outdoor tub, pool and trilby spring
  • Services: Communal kitchen, hiking, accommodation, dry sauna, steam room, massages

Orr Hot Spring resort is a natural mineral hot spring located in Ukiah on 27 beautiful acres in Mendocino County. It’s situated very close to the Montgomery Woods State Reserve.

This hot spring resort offers everything you need for a very relaxing stay including a communal kitchen and massages. Don’t miss the numerous soaking pools and sun deck.

>> For more information, visit the official website here.

Travel Tip: The swimming pool is closed on Tuesdays so you may need to plan accordingly.

Hot Springs North of Lake Tahoe

This last section in our guide will feature Northern California hot springs north of Lake Tahoe.

18. Sierra Hot Springs Resort And Retreat Center

An outdoor hot spring pool at  Sierra Hot Springs Resort in Calirofnia
Photo courtesy of Sierra Hot Springs Resort
  • Type: Mineral pool and hot spring tub
  • Location: 1 hr north of Incline Village
  • Parking: Google maps
  • Price: Day use $35/person (Thurs+Fri) and $45/person (Sat, Sun + Holidays)
  • Open: Thurs-Sun all year for day use of pools
  • Clothing: Optional
  • Features: Hot pool, warm pool and mediation pool
  • Services: Mineral pools, hiking, biking, workshops, dry sauna, sun deck
  • Temperature: Multiple pools ranging from 98°-112°F

Located in Sierraville, Sierra Hot Springs has been a popular hot spring resort for decades. It borders 700 acres of national forest land giving visitors immediate access to gorgeous alpine valley views.

At Sierra hot springs, you can enjoy the hot pool (110°-112°), an outside salt water pool (98°-100°), Meditation Pool (98°-100°) and private Phoenix Baths (95°-96°).

>> For more information, visit the official website here.

19. Feather River Hot Springs

Feather river hot spring pool with umbrella and chairs for visitors
Photo courtesy of Feather River Hot Spring
  • Type: Hot spring tub
  • Location: About 3.0 miles east of Twain (2 hrs north of Incline Village)
  • Parking: Google maps
  • Price: $20/person for 2 hr soak (non-member)
  • Open: Year round
  • Clothing: Required during daylight hours
  • Features: 2 natural sulfur hot springs
  • Services: None currently but cabins and camping available nearby
  • Temperature: 99°-104°F

Since the late 1930’s, Feather River Hot Springs has been welcoming people in Twain, CA. Two cement tubs sit very close to the Feather River for the ultimate natural hot spring experience.

Feather River does not allow drop-ins and reservations are required. Three cabins available for rent along with nearby camping options.

>> For more information, visit the official website here.

20. Surprise Valley Hot Springs

A hot tub at Surprise Valley Hot Spring with fence and umbrella
Photo courtesy of Surprise Valley Hot Spring
  • Type: Hot spring tub
  • Location: About 5.0 mi east of Cedarville (1 hr north of Incline Village)
  • Parking: Google maps
  • Price: Varies as all accommodation features your own private hot spring tub
  • Open: Year round
  • Clothing: Optional
  • Features: Private hot spring tub
  • Services: Standard rooms, deluxe rooms and suites available

Located in Cedarville, Surprise Valley Hot Springs offers visitors an opportunity to soak in a private hot spring tub. It’s nestled in the remote high valley desert bordered by the Warner Mountains and Nevada’s Hays Range.

Each room has a standard kitchenette with everything you need for a relaxing intimate getaway. Keep in mind, this resort is only 21 years and older with no internet so plan accordingly.

>> For more information, visit the official website here.

Hot Spring Etiquette Tips

Hilltop hot spring with woman bathing
Kristen sitting on the edge of a Northern California Hot Spring

It’s important every visitor practice the seven principles of Leave No Trace so everyone else can enjoy these amazing hot springs. Here are a few important things to consider before your trip:

  • Dispose of waste properly. It’s our responsibility to keep these natural places beautiful and you should always leave the place better than you found it.
  • Be respectful of others. People visit hot springs to reduce stress and relax. This is not the place to play loud music or host a party.
  • Respect wildlife. Never feed or handle wildlife. The best way to keep wildlife safe is to secure food and dispose of trash properly. Dog owners are responsible for picking up after their pet.
  • Sharing is caring. Be considerate of others and invite them to soak if there is room. Just because you arrive first does not mean you should hog the hot springs for hours.
  • Plan ahead and prepare. Some of these hot springs require hikes and may be dangerous in certain weather conditions. Be sure to check fire, weather and trail conditions before heading out.
  • Respect privacy and modesty. Many of these hot springs are clothing optional. Cameras and photographs are not permitted in the bathing areas in most resorts and spas.
  • Avoid bath products. Natural hot springs do not drain and bath products can be harmful because they disrupt the balance of minerals.
  • Camping is typically allowed in dispersed areas. Use the BLM or National Forest Service official websites for information about camping in California.
  • Spring and fall is the best time to visit. This time of year temperatures are safe for soaking and you won’t have to worry about the roads becoming impassable.

In Conclusion

Are the northern California hot springs worth it?

Yes, the Northern California hot springs are worth visiting because you can soak in numerous free and natural pools with epic views. For those visitors who want a more sophisticated experience, you can also find mineral pools with extensive spa menus. There is truly something for everyone in Northern California.

When we visited the hot springs near Mammoth Lakes, we decided to make an entire day out of it. We put on our swimsuits and robes, and then spent the entire day visiting hot springs along our route.

More From California

Want more California content? Head to our California Travel Guides to explore National Parks, popular road trips and things to do in major cities of the sunshine state.


We hope this guide helps you find the best hot springs in Northern California for your next trip!

Please let us know if you have any questions about these hot spring resorts in Northern California in the comments below.

Happy Bathing,

Mark and Kristen

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