A guide to free, public-access hot springs in California — Wild Willy's, Travertine, Deep Creek, Buckeye, and more.
From the steaming pools of the Eastern Sierra to remote wilderness soaks in Southern California, these are the best free hot springs in California—and what you should know before visiting.
One of the best things about California's hot spring scene is that not every soak comes with a resort fee, spa reservation, or hotel stay. While luxury destinations like Calistoga and Desert Hot Springs attract visitors seeking amenities and comfort, many of the state's most beloved hot springs are completely free to visit.
Scattered across public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), U.S. Forest Service, and National Forests, these geothermal pools offer a more rugged experience. There are no attendants, locker rooms, or poolside service. Instead, you'll find mountain views, desert landscapes, dirt roads, and the simple pleasure of soaking in naturally heated water directly from the earth.
The tradeoff for free access is that you'll need to be more self-sufficient. Visitors are responsible for their own safety, water, supplies, and stewardship of these fragile natural areas.
If you're looking for the best free hot springs in California, these are the destinations that consistently top the list.
Are There Really Free Hot Springs in California?
Yes. California has dozens of free hot springs located on public lands throughout the state. Most are natural or minimally developed soaking pools fed by geothermal water sources.
Unlike commercial resorts, free hot springs generally offer no admission fee, no reservations, no changing facilities, no lifeguards, no guaranteed water quality, and limited or no services.
Many are accessible year-round, though weather, snow, and road conditions can affect access depending on the season.
The largest concentration of free hot springs can be found in the Eastern Sierra, but excellent options also exist in Southern California and remote wilderness areas throughout the state.
Free Hot Springs Near Mammoth Lakes
The Mammoth Lakes region is arguably the best destination in California for free hot spring hopping.
Located within the Long Valley Caldera, one of the largest geothermal systems in North America, the area contains numerous hot springs clustered around Benton Crossing Road and the Owens Valley.
Most are located on public land managed by the Bureau of Land Management and remain free to access throughout the year.
Wild Willy's Hot Spring
Wild Willy's is perhaps the most famous free hot spring in California.
Located a short drive from Mammoth Lakes, the spring sits in a broad meadow surrounded by spectacular Sierra Nevada views. A short boardwalk leads visitors from the parking area to a large soaking pool maintained by volunteers and local users.
The water remains pleasantly warm throughout the year, making it popular during every season.
Wild Willy's attracts photographers, road trippers, hikers, and hot spring enthusiasts from around the world. Sunrise and sunset are particularly busy, as visitors gather to watch the changing light on the mountains while soaking in geothermal water.
Why Visit: Completely free, easy access, large soaking pool, beautiful mountain scenery, popular sunrise destination.
Hilltop Hot Springs
Few hot springs in California have become as recognizable as Hilltop Hot Springs.
A small soaking tub sits atop a hill overlooking the Owens Valley and the snow-capped Sierra Nevada. Despite its modest size, the setting is extraordinary.
The combination of panoramic mountain views and steaming mineral water has made Hilltop a favorite among photographers and travelers exploring Highway 395.
Because of its accessibility and popularity, visitors should expect crowds during peak hours.
Why Visit: Incredible panoramic views, easy roadside access, great photography location, free year-round use.
Crab Cooker Hot Spring
Located near Wild Willy's, Crab Cooker offers a more rustic experience.
The spring consists of several soaking pools fed by extremely hot geothermal water. Visitors often adjust rock barriers to regulate temperature and water flow.
Conditions can vary considerably depending on recent weather and maintenance by local users. Because it receives fewer visitors than Wild Willy's, many people find it offers a quieter experience.
Why Visit: Less crowded than nearby springs, multiple soaking areas, authentic natural setting, free access.
Shepherd Hot Springs
Shepherd Hot Springs is one of the lesser-known free springs in the Mammoth area.
While not as famous as Wild Willy's or Hilltop, it offers a quieter atmosphere and an opportunity to soak away from larger crowds. Road conditions can vary, and visitors should research current access before visiting.
Why Visit: Smaller crowds, remote atmosphere, free access, scenic Eastern Sierra location.
Free Hot Springs Near Bridgeport
About an hour north of Mammoth Lakes, Bridgeport offers another concentration of exceptional free hot springs.
This region combines geothermal activity with dramatic mountain scenery, creating some of the most picturesque soaking opportunities in California.
Travertine Hot Springs
Travertine Hot Springs is one of the easiest free hot springs in California to visit.
Located just outside Bridgeport, the springs emerge through colorful mineral formations that have built up over centuries. These deposits create a series of terraced soaking pools overlooking the rugged Sawtooth Ridge.
The combination of accessibility and scenery makes Travertine a popular stop for road trippers traveling Highway 395. Even a brief visit can provide some of the best hot spring views in the state.
Why Visit: Free access, spectacular mountain views, unique travertine formations, short walk from parking area.
Buckeye Hot Springs
Buckeye Hot Springs offers a very different experience from Travertine.
The spring emerges from a steep hillside above Buckeye Creek, creating soaking pools that overlook a rushing mountain stream.
One of the highlights is the opportunity to alternate between hot geothermal water and the cold creek below.
The setting feels more rugged and secluded, making Buckeye a favorite among experienced hot spring enthusiasts.
Why Visit: Natural creekside location, scenic canyon setting, less developed atmosphere, completely free.
Free Hot Springs in Southern California
Although Southern California has fewer natural hot springs than the Eastern Sierra, several remarkable free soaking destinations remain accessible to adventurous travelers.
Deep Creek Hot Springs
Deep Creek Hot Springs is the most famous free hot spring in Southern California.
Located within the San Bernardino National Forest, the springs sit beside Deep Creek and feature multiple naturally heated pools of varying temperatures.
Access requires a hike, with the most common route beginning near Bowen Ranch. The hike is roughly four miles each way and includes significant elevation changes.
While access to the springs is free, visitors typically pay a small fee for parking at the trailhead. The effort required helps preserve the area's natural feel and keeps the experience more rewarding.
Why Visit: Southern California's best-known natural hot spring, multiple geothermal pools, beautiful canyon setting, memorable day hike.
Sespe Hot Springs
For backpackers seeking a true wilderness experience, Sespe Hot Springs ranks among California's most legendary destinations.
Located deep within Los Padres National Forest, the springs require a lengthy hike through remote backcountry terrain. Most visitors treat the trip as an overnight or multi-day backpacking adventure.
The geothermal source is among the hottest in California, and visitors often mix spring water with nearby creek water to create comfortable soaking temperatures.
There are no facilities, services, or crowds—just wilderness and geothermal water.
Why Visit: Completely free, multi-day adventure, remote wilderness setting, exceptional backpacking destination.
Other Free Hot Springs Worth Visiting
California's geothermal landscape includes many lesser-known free soaking spots. Some additional springs frequently visited by enthusiasts include:
Little Hot Creek — Located near Mammoth Lakes, this geothermal stream contains sections of naturally heated water and beautiful geological features.
[Saline Valley Warm Springs](/springs/saline-valley-warm-springs) — Deep within Death Valley National Park, these volunteer-maintained pools are free to use but extremely remote.
Tecopa Hot Springs Area — Several natural and low-cost soaking opportunities exist around Tecopa in the Mojave Desert.
Fish Lake Valley Springs — Near the California-Nevada border, several primitive geothermal pools offer free soaking opportunities for adventurous travelers.
Free Hot Spring Etiquette
The popularity of free hot springs has grown dramatically over the past decade. As visitation increases, responsible behavior becomes increasingly important. Following basic etiquette helps protect both the environment and continued public access.
Pack Out Everything
If you bring it in, take it out. This includes food wrappers, water bottles, toilet paper, cigarette butts, and biodegradable waste. The fact that an item is biodegradable does not mean it belongs in a hot spring area.
Don't Use Soap or Shampoo
Even biodegradable soaps can damage sensitive ecosystems. Natural hot springs are not showers. Avoid introducing any chemicals, soaps, shampoos, or detergents into the water.
Leave Glass at Home
Broken glass is one of the most common hazards around hot springs. Use reusable bottles or cans instead.
Respect Clothing-Optional Traditions
Many natural hot springs in California have historically been clothing-optional. Visitors should respect local customs while also respecting personal boundaries and comfort levels. Photography should always be approached carefully and respectfully.
Stay on Established Trails
Off-trail travel damages vegetation and contributes to erosion. Whenever possible, remain on designated paths and access routes.
What Should You Bring to a Free Hot Spring?
Unlike resorts, free hot springs require visitors to be self-sufficient. A basic packing list should include drinking water, a towel, sandals or water shoes, flashlight or headlamp, snacks, extra layers, sunscreen, a trash bag, and a first aid kit.
Remote locations may also require navigation tools, emergency supplies, and extra fuel.
Final Thoughts
California's best free hot springs prove that you don't need a luxury resort or expensive spa package to enjoy an unforgettable soak. From the iconic pools of Wild Willy's and Hilltop Hot Springs near Mammoth Lakes to the rugged canyon setting of Deep Creek and the remote wilderness of Sespe Hot Springs, the state offers countless opportunities to experience geothermal waters without paying an entrance fee.
The Eastern Sierra remains the premier region for free hot spring exploration, thanks to its concentration of easily accessible public springs. But remarkable free soaking opportunities can also be found in Southern California deserts, mountain forests, and remote backcountry landscapes throughout the state.
The key is arriving prepared, respecting the environment, and helping preserve these special places for future visitors. Do that, and California's free hot springs can provide some of the most memorable outdoor experiences in the American West.
