Discover the best hot springs in California with our statewide map and regional guides for Northern California and Southern California. Use the top menu to view California hot springs by region or type from any page. Individual hot springs listings typically include access information, pool conditions, directions, maps, facility information, ratings, pictures and videos.
Carved by volcanic activity and geological forces, California’s natural hot springs are truly a gift from the Earth. These steaming pools of mineral-rich water have beckoned locals and travelers for centuries, offering a chance to unwind amidst breathtaking landscapes. Whether you crave a rustic adventure or a luxurious retreat, your next favorite hot soak in California is waiting for you.
Overhead View of Deep Creek Hot Springs
Hot Springs in California
Public and Private (Commercial) Hot Springs: From cushy resorts to primitive hot soaks there’s a hot springs for every type of hot springer in California. Visit private pools or drive, hike and backpack your way to natural hot springs located on public land.
Stay the Night: Find out what it’s like to spend the night at a hot springs with a hotel, cabins, campground or RV facilities.
Rugged Backcountry Delights: Hike through scenic wilderness to discover hidden pools at Deep Creek Hot Springs, or take a short walk to the limestone pools at Travertine Hot Springs, where a soak under a star-studded sky is an unforgettable experience.
Desert Oasis Escape: In the arid landscapes of Southern California, discover hot springs near Joshua Tree and in Agua Caliente Park, where the hot water creates a lush, vibrant ecosystem perfect for relaxation.
Extra Friendly Hot Springs: It’s a given that all hot springs are friendly. But some are more friendly than others. Like hot springs that are family-friendly, massage-friendly and even those that are friendly for people who prefer clothing to be optional.
Statewide and Regional Maps
Plan your next geothermal adventure by visualizing your journey with our maps. Where you can click on pins to view additional information about each hot springs.
Statewide California Hot Springs Map
Hot Springs in Northern California
Hot Springs in Southern California
Why are hot springs in California, hot?
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.
Steeped in History and Culture
Native American tribes revered these natural wonders for their healing properties, and many natural hot springs are located near historical sites.
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.
Visit Hot Springs in Another State
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.
