Welcome to CaliHotSprings.com, your ultimate guide to discovering the best hot springs in California. This website is built and maintained by hot springers for hot springers with the goal of being the most complete resource available for natural hot springs in California.
How do I find hot springs in California?
California is home to a variety of hot springs that offer not only relaxation but also healing benefits. Whether you’re looking for a remote and rugged hot spring or a luxurious spa experience, we’ve got you covered.
To find a hot springs to soak in check out our California hot springs map or view hot springs by region in Northern California and Southern California. You can additionally use the top navigation menu to view hot springs by region or type from any page.
All hot springs listings on this website include access information, pool conditions, hours, directions, maps, facility information, ratings, pictures, video clips and more.
What are the best hot springs in California?
The hot springs below are currently the most popular on this website.
Top 10 California Hot Springs
Why are hot springs in California hot?
California is the third-largest state in the US with over 163,000 square miles of vast and sweeping terrain. Its geographic diversity ranges from mountains, coastal ranges, valleys, rivers, lakes and deserts to an abundance of natural hot springs.
The golden state is located within the Pacific Ring of Fire, which is comprised of a chain of volcanoes. This volcanic activity is where California’s hot springs were born.
Water heated from deep within the earth due to volcanic activity pushes its way through fractures and cracks in rocks while gathering minerals along the way. Groundwater from rain aids in replacing the water heated by magma and subsequently renewing the cycle.
Enjoying a mud bath at Travertine Hot Springs
California Hot Springs Safety Precautions
Many hot springs are far from civilization; away from gas, water, cell phone service and roadside assistance. It is incredibly important to be prepared when traveling to new places. First and foremost, know where you are going. Will you be able to refuel along the way or do you need to carry extra gas? Will your vehicle handle the roads you’ll be traveling on? What shape is your spare tire in?
Red Spider Mite Warning
Only a handful of hot springs in California have been reported to have red spider mites.
No Soap or Shampoo! EVER!
Public hot springs in California are not bathing facilities and do not have ‘plumbing’ like that of commercial, improved hot springs.
Soap and shampoo, including bio soap and shampoo, do not break down naturally and pollute our fragile ecosystems.
FYI, this is also illegal in most wilderness and public land areas. Please report suspicious activity to public lands officials (take pics).
Leave No Trace
It is important to remember when visiting non-commercial hot springs in California or any state to leave them in better shape than when you arrived.
Please leave no trace, bring no glass and embrace the experience. We recommend cleaning up the area and hot springs before soaking as it makes for a more natural experience and reward for your stewardship efforts.