Deep Creek Hot Springs

Adventure awaits in the rain-shadowed foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains in Southern California, where a unique cluster of undeveloped hot springs graces the Deep Creek fork of the Mojave River. Surrounded by a vibrant tapestry of lush vegetation, including willows and various trees, these natural hot pools offer an escape into a tranquil setting, a world away from the everyday.

The cool, flowing waters of the Mojave River provide a refreshing contrast, while a small, inviting sandy beach beckons those who wish to bask in the California sunshine.

San Bernardino National Forest Hot Springs

Deep Creek Hot Springs is a cherished public, non-commercial destination within the San Bernardino National Forest, approximately 2.5 hours from the bustling metropolis of Los Angeles and a mere 8 miles north of the popular Lake Arrowhead.

Once a relatively unknown oasis, Deep Creek has increasingly opened its arms to the many who have discovered its allure. This natural wonder is also a well-known and much-appreciated stopover for the fortunate hikers traversing the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT).

Deep Creek Hot Springs Soak Stats:

Elevation	3,000 ft
Season	Spring and Fall
Type	Hike
Region	Southern California Hot Springs
Map Quad	San Bernardino National Forest
Land	San Bernardino National Forest
GPS	34.339393 -117.176963
Fees	Bowen Ranch parking fee
Restrictions	Nighttime closure, no glass, no fires
Temp	Varies/pool
Water Clarity	Moderate
Odor	None
pH	n/a
Bugs	Moderate
Clothing Optional	Yes
Toilet	Yes

Past and Present

Deep Creek also holds deep cultural and historical significance. For centuries, these natural thermal pools served as a vital oasis for indigenous peoples, including the Serrano and Cahuilla tribes. These tribes recognized the unique therapeutic properties of the springs, utilizing them not only for warmth and cleansing but also as integral cultural and spiritual sites.

The pools as they exist today are largely the result of dedicated volunteer efforts, with groups like the Deep Creek Volunteers working tirelessly to maintain the area’s pristine condition. This long history of human interaction with the springs, from ancient indigenous practices to modern-day volunteer stewardship, adds a spiritual richness to this natural landmark.

The Hot Pools

A visit to Deep Creek Hot Springs typically offers access to around six to seven distinct geothermal pools. The five primary pools generally range in temperature from a comfortable 100 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit. The uppermost pool, often the warmest, is perfectly sized for one or two soakers seeking a more intimate experience.

Below the upper pool lies a popular pool, spacious enough to comfortably accommodate at least a dozen people, making it an excellent spot to socialize and connect with fellow visitors. For those seeking a bit more room and a slightly cooler soak, the largest pool is big enough for swimming and tends to be the most secluded, offering a greater sense of privacy.

Further exploration along the Deep Creek Fork of the Mojave River will reveal a scattering of other geothermal pools, each with subtle variations in temperature, though most average above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The original source of the hot springs water is approximately 117 degrees Fahrenheit. This variety in pool sizes and temperatures means there’s a soak for every type of hot springer.

Is Deep Creek Hot Springs safe to swim in?

While Deep Creek Hot Springs can be a beautiful place to visit, it’s important to be aware of potential dangers. The hot springs contain a rare, sometimes fatal disease called primary amoebic meningoencephalitis. To minimize risk, it is advisable not to submerge your head in the water.

Is Deep Creek Hot Springs clothing optional?

Deep Creek Hot Springs is clothing optional; please bare in mind that this only applies in the vicinity of the hot springs and clothing is required on the trail.

Access and Usage Fees

Regarding access and usage fees, there is currently no charge to use the hot springs pools themselves. However, access to the San Bernardino National Forest, particularly if entering via Bowen Ranch, may require an entrance or parking fee. Bowen Ranch, a private property that many visitors pass through to reach the trailhead, often charges a per-person parking fee, which visitors should be prepared to pay in cash.

Rules and Regulations

As visitors to Deep Creek Hot Springs are within the San Bernardino National Forest, it is important to adhere to the rules and regulations established by the U.S. Forest Service to ensure the preservation of this natural resource.

• This includes refraining from any actions that could harm the environment, such as carving, chopping, or cutting live trees, or removing any natural or historical artifacts.
• Proper sanitation is paramount; all garbage and litter must be packed out, as no trash receptacles are provided.
• Vehicles must remain on designated routes only, and all traffic signs and state traffic laws are applicable within the National Forest.
• Regulations also exist regarding the discharge of firearms and maintaining reasonable noise levels to ensure a peaceful environment for all visitors.
• Overnight camping is strictly prohibited within one mile of the hot springs.
• Fires, campfires, and stoves are not allowed within the Deep Creek drainage.
• To prevent potential hazards, glass containers are also prohibited within a one-mile radius of Deep Creek.
• While clothing is optional at the hot springs pools, public nudity is not permitted within a quarter of a mile of the T-6 crossing.
• Deep Creek Hot Springs is designated for day use only, and visitors are not permitted to be in the area from sundown to sunrise.

The most critical rule to remember is: do not drink the water from the hot springs or the creek. This water contains a rare and potentially fatal disease called primary amoebic meningoencephalitis, as well as high levels of fecal coliform bacteria.

Water Quality

The most significant safety concern at Deep Creek Hot Springs is water quality. Visitors are strongly cautioned against submerging their heads in the hot springs or the creek due to the presence of Naegleria fowleri, a rare but sometimes fatal amoeba that causes primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM).

This amoeba enters the body through the nasal passage and can travel to the brain. While infection is rare, it is often fatal. To minimize risk, avoid getting water up your nose. Additionally, the hot springs have been found to have high levels of fecal coliform bacteria, likely due to the area’s popularity and the presence of both humans and animals. Learn how to properly test hot springs water quality.

The Hike

Reaching the hot springs requires a hike that ranges from moderate to difficult, depending on the chosen trail. The terrain can be steep and slippery, with loose decomposed granite, debris, and uneven surfaces. Wearing sturdy hiking footwear with good traction is essential. It is also recommended to bring a map or GPS device and to start your hike with ample daylight to ensure you can return before nightfall, as nighttime visits are prohibited.

Desert Precautions

The Mojave Desert environment can experience extreme temperatures, particularly in the summer months. Hikers should carry plenty of water (at least one gallon per person is recommended), along with snacks, sunscreen and a hat for sun protection. A flashlight with extra batteries is a wise addition to your pack in case your return hike extends into dusk. While the cool waters of Deep Creek might seem inviting for swimming, particularly at the larger pool, be aware that the creek can be subject to flash floods during heavy rains or snowmelt.

Rattlesnakes are known to inhabit the area, so it is important to be vigilant and exercise caution, especially around rock outcroppings. Observe any wildlife from a safe distance and never attempt to feed them, as this can alter their natural behaviors and potentially lead to dangerous encounters.

Soak Safety

To ensure a safe and enjoyable soaking experience, consider the following general hot spring precautions. Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout your visit. It is best to avoid consuming alcohol while soaking, as the combination of heat and alcohol can lead to dehydration and dizziness. Minerals in hot springs can sometimes tarnish jewelry, so it’s advisable to remove any before soaking. Avoid soaking if you have any open cuts or sores, as this increases the risk of infection. Pregnant women should consult with their physician.

Charting Your Path: 3 Routes to Deep Creek Hot Springs

Reaching Deep Creek Hot Springs involves a hike, and there are three primary routes to choose from, each offering a different experience in terms of difficulty and scenery.

Route 1: The Northern Route (Most Popular)

This route is approximately 2 miles long and is considered challenging due to its steep terrain and the need to ford the creek at the end.

Route Name	Bowen Ranch Trail
Length (One Way)	2 miles
Difficulty	Challenging
River Ford	Yes
Parking Fee (Approx.)	$10+ (Cash)
Best For	Those wanting the shortest, most direct route

Driving Directions: From the Bear Valley Exit off I-15, turn left if coming from the north or right if coming from the south. Continue east on Bear Valley Road for about 10 miles until you reach Central Road. Turn right and drive 3 miles to Ocotillo Road, which is located past the railroad tracks and over the hill. Turn left onto Ocotillo Road and drive for 2.2 miles until you reach Bowen Ranch Road; this section of the road is a dirt track. Turn right onto Bowen Ranch Road and drive for 6 miles until you arrive at the Bowen Ranch Parking Lot.

The trailhead for the hot springs is located at the south end of the parking lot. Be prepared for a bumpy ride on Bowen Ranch Road as it is unpaved and can be rough.

Hiking Directions: The trailhead is clearly marked at the south end of the parking lot. The trail is approximately 2 miles long with an elevation change of about 900 feet. The hot springs are situated on the opposite side of the creek, which you will need to cross. Follow the markers along the way to avoid getting lost.

Bowen Ranch typically provides a simple map of the trail. The hike should take around 2-3 hours to reach the hot pools and about 3-4 hours to return to the trailhead. There is typically a parking fee at Bowen Ranch, which may be around $10 per person or higher, and it is usually cash only. It is important to remember that Bowen Ranch is private property and should be treated with respect.

Route 2: The Southern Route (Bradford Ridge Trail)

This route is about 2.5 miles long and is also considered challenging due to its steep descent into Deep Creek Canyon, but it does not involve a river ford.

Route Name	Bradford Ridge Trail
Length (One Way)	2.5 miles
Difficulty	Challenging
River Ford	No
Parking Fee (Approx.)	Free (Roadside)
Best For	Those from LA/Inland Empire, no river ford

Driving Directions: From Lake Arrowhead, head southwest on Mittry Dr toward Highway 173. Then, follow Highway 189 for 1.5 miles to N Bay Rd. Take N Bay Rd for 2.6 miles to N Grass Valley Rd. Continue on Highway 173 for another 4.6 miles to the trailhead. The trailhead address is Bradford Ridge Path / Deep Creek Trailhead, CA-173, Lake Arrowhead, California. Parking is limited to the side of the road near the trailhead.

Hiking Directions: Cross the street to reach the trailhead, going around the gate. This trail is about 2.5 miles long and is generally well-marked. The initial section of the trail is gradual and relatively easy before the final, steep descent into Deep Creek Canyon. Before the final descent, the trail forks: the left fork leads to the ridge trail, while the right goes into the small canyon. The left fork along the Bradford Ridge is the preferred option and follows the PCT. Stay to the right, and you will reach the hot springs quickly. A significant advantage of this route is that it does not require a river crossing.

Route 3: The Western Route (PCT)

This is the longest of the three routes, approximately 6 miles each way, but it is generally considered flat and less challenging, with no river fords required.

Route Name	Pacific Coast Trail (PCT)
Length (One Way)	6 miles
Difficulty	Moderate
River Ford	No
Parking Fee (Approx.)	Free (Near Dam)
Best For	Those preferring a longer, flatter hike

Driving Directions: Exit I-15 at Highway 138 and head southeast until you reach Highway 173. Turn left onto Highway 173 before Lake Silverwood. Continue on Highway 173 past the turnoff for Hesperia until the road becomes dirt. Drive cautiously along this winding dirt road for about 5 miles. At mile 4, you will cross a white wooden bridge. Continue until you come to a concrete bridge with a small parking area on the right. Look for the trailhead near the dam.

Hiking Directions: Follow the well-established Pacific Coast Trail east for approximately 6 miles to the hot pools. There is a short but steep ascent for a few hundred yards at the beginning before the trail levels out. This route offers a longer, more gradual approach to the hot springs and can be a good option for those looking for a less strenuous hike, albeit a longer one.

Extend Your Adventure: Nearby Camping

While camping is strictly prohibited within one mile of Deep Creek Hot Springs to protect the sensitive environment, several camping options are available in the surrounding area for those wishing to extend their visit.

Bowen Ranch: Located just half a mile from the Bowen Ranch trailhead, this private campground offers basic campsites for a nominal fee. It is important to pay your fees before heading to your campsite. Bowen Ranch typically has approximately five developed sites equipped with picnic tables and fire rings.

San Bernardino National Forest: The San Bernardino National Forest offers a variety of developed campgrounds in areas such as Arrowhead, Big Bear, San Gorgonio and San Jacinto. These campgrounds provide a range of amenities, including restrooms, picnic tables, and fire rings. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, and can often be made through the National Recreation Reservation System. Exploring these campgrounds can provide a more traditional camping experience with established facilities.

Primitive Camping: For a more rugged and secluded experience, dispersed camping is available on nearby public lands within the San Bernardino National Forest. Dispersed camping allows you to camp outside of developed campgrounds, offering a greater sense of solitude. However, it also requires more self-sufficiency, as amenities are not provided.

If you choose to engage in dispersed camping, be sure to familiarize yourself with the regulations, including the requirement for a California Campfire Permit if you plan to use a camp stove or lantern. Remember to always practice Leave No Trace principles when camping in dispersed areas.

Treading Lightly: Embracing Leave No Trace Principles

To ensure that Deep Creek Hot Springs remains a beautiful and ecologically significant destination for future generations, all visitors need to embrace and practice the principles of Leave No Trace. This involves making conscious choices to minimize our impact on the natural environment.

One of the most crucial aspects of Leave No Trace at Deep Creek is proper waste disposal. As there are no trash facilities available, every visitor must pack out absolutely everything they pack in, including all food wrappers, bottles, and personal belongings. Leaving no trace also means staying on designated trails to avoid trampling delicate vegetation and contributing to soil erosion.

The hot springs themselves are not a place for personal hygiene products; soaps, shampoos, and lotions should never be used in the pools as they can harm the delicate ecosystem. Resist the temptation to take souvenirs; leave rocks, plants, and other natural items as you find them so that others can also enjoy their natural beauty.

Stay Informed: Important Updates and Considerations

Before planning your visit to Deep Creek Hot Springs, be sure to check for any important updates, closures or advisories that may be in effect. Fire restrictions can change rapidly, especially during the dry season, so consult the official alerts and notices page of the San Bernardino National Forest website.

Official Resources for Updates:

• San Bernardino National Forest Alerts and Closures
• San Bernardino National Forest Recreation Conditions
• Pacific Crest Trail Association (PCTA) Closures

Your Adventure Awaits

Deep Creek Hot Springs is more than just a destination – it’s an experience. Whether you’re seeking solitude, connection or an escape, this natural wonder invites you to unwind, explore and create lasting memories. Pack your gear, lace up your boots and embark on a sojourn to one of California’s most enchanting hot springs.