Tag: Backpack


Grab your gear and hit the trail. The hot springs in this category can be reached by hiking a few to a couple miles and have nearby camping options.


Natural Hot Pool

Gaviota Hot Springs Near Santa Barbara

2 Reviews
Favorite
Gaviota Hot Springs is a rustic and relaxing hot spring located approximately forty (40) minutes outside of the town of Santa Barbara in the unspoiled Las Padres National Forest. Also known as Las Cruces Hot Springs, Gaviota is the perfect spot for a little away time and meditation when you are passing through the town of Santa Barbara. One of Read more...
Natural Hot Pool

Sykes Hot Springs in Big Sur

No Reviews
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Located approximately 10 miles from the Big Sur Park Trailhead and along the Pine Ridge Trail in the scenic Ventana Wilderness in California is the soothing and relaxing Sykes Hot Springs. Sykes Hot Springs is one of the foremost geothermal springs in California and is a major attraction for people who just want to get away and enjoy nature at Read more...
Soaking Pool

Deep Creek Hot Springs in Southern California

6 Reviews
Favorite
Adventure into the rain shadowed desert foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains to a cluster of undeveloped hot springs on the Deep Creek fork of the Mojave River.   Surrounded by lush vegetation of willows and other various trees, the natural hot pools transport you into a parallel universe. The cool waters of the Mojave River provide a refreshing reprieve Read more...

Soak by Feature

No Soap or Shampoo!

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 breakdown naturally and pollute our fragile ecosystems.

FYI, this is also illegal in most wilderness and public lands areas. Please report suspicious activity to public lands officials (take pics).

Leave No Trace

It is important to remember when visiting 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.