If you are looking for the best natural hot springs in Southern California, then you are on the right place. There’s something magical about soaking in a natural hot spring.
Hot springs are unique natural phenomena. They happen in volcanic areas and create wondrous natural sites worldwide.
Unfortunately, natural hot springs aren’t common. Few areas truly support the occurrence of authentic hot springs, and California happens to be one of them. There are several hot spring destinations across the state.
Most travelers look for the best hot spring destinations, but where are they? Where can you find the best spots? This article will look at the best-rated natural hot spring locations in California.
Best Natural Hot Springs In South California
1. Gaviota Hot Springs
- Location: Goleta, CA
- Address: 1595 US-101, Goleta, CA 93117, United States
- Phone: (805) 968-1033
- Website: Gaviota Hot Springs
Highlights
- The hot spring location is pet-friendly.
- The location is RV friendly.
- A biking trail is available to guests
- 100% natural trail.
Gaviota is an ideal hot spring location for families that have pets. Unlike many private hot spring locations, it allows animals on sight.
The hot spring location is truly natural and does not incorporate modern-design pools or baths. You can get fully immersed when you visit the site.
The biking trail is beautiful, particularly in the early mornings or during picturesque sunsets. You can camp out if you have an RV.
2. Travertine Hot Springs
- Location: Bridgeport, CA
- Address: Bridgeport, CA 93517, United States
- Phone: N/A
- Website: N/A
Highlights
- The spring sites are camp-friendly.
- Pet access is allowed
- It is free to access/with no entry fee
- It is located near Cozy Mountain Retreat
Travertine is a five-pool hot spring location. It is popular because of its scenic views, relaxing environment, and natural hot springs.
It is one of the few hot springs that are free to access. Because of this, it frequently gets hundreds of guests every day.
Visitors can camp near the hot springs. You do not pay anything to stay at these campsites. The emphasis on nature sets Travertine apart from other hot spring locations.
3. Avila Hot Springs
- Location: San Luis Obispo
- Address: 250 Avila Beach Dr, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405, USA
- Phone: +1 805-595-2359
- Website: Avila Hot Springs
Highlights
- Includes a massage spa
- Bike trails
- Complementary pool access
- Camping Spots with RV accommodation
Avila Hot Springs is a family-oriented hot spring resort that offers plenty to adults and children. It is a short drive just San Luis Obispo.
The hot spring destination is a treasure trove of activity for anyone looking for a good time. Guests pay for a day pass, which gives them free access to the pools for the day.
The natural bike trails are perfect, especially during the picturesque sunsets. Guests can access the spa for a relaxing massage.
4. Esalen Hot Springs
- Location: Big Sur, CA
- Address: 55000 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920, United States
- Phone: +1 831-667-3000
- Website: Esalen Hot Springs
Highlights
- Art barn access for creatives.
- Full farm and garden access.
- Mediation hut for guests
- Accommodation with tiered room access
Esalen hot spring is an institution dedicated to the holistic well-being of its guests. The non-profit allows patrons to learn and relax.
The hot spring is adjacent to the Pacific Ocean. It makes for a scenic and relaxing view.
It is a one-of-a-kind hot spring location.
You have various accommodation options, from simple sleeping bags to king-sized beds. Guests get encouraged to try gardening and farming. The institution is self-sufficient.
5. Beverly Hot Springs
- Location: Oxford Ave, Los Angeles
- Address: 308 N Oxford Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90004, USA
- Phone: +1 323-734-7000
- Website: Beverly Hot Springs
Highlights
- Get access to massage therapy.
- Full spa amenities included.
- Premium indoor hot spring facility.
- Real mineral spring jet water.
Are you looking for a unique indoor hot springs experience? Beverly Hot Springs has got you covered. Beverly Hot Springs is the best option for spa treatments.
Guests at the resort get body treatments which include a scrub and body care combo. There are plenty of massage treatment options, including deep tissue, Swedish and royal Thai options.
The VIP suite gets you to access to a spring water jacuzzi and massage beds.
6. Deep Creek Hot Springs
- Location: Apple Valley, CA
- Address: Pacific Crest Trail, Apple Valley, CA 92308, United States
- Phone: +1 (760)515-7525
- Website: Deep Creek Hot Springs
Highlights
- Furnished camping tents are available.
- You get hiking trail access.
- Many amenities include picnic tables, BBQs, and showers.
- Offsite camping available
Deep Creek Hot Springs is in San Bernardino National Forest. It is part of a protected area accessible to local and foreign tourists.
It is a wonderful location filled with nature and delight.
The hot spring location offers many activities, including hiking and a bike trail. Guests can partake in these activities from sunrise to sunset when the forest is closed to visitors.
There are great picnic sites available for families.
7. Glen Ivy Hot Springs
- Location: Glen Ivy Rd, Corona, CA
- Address: 25000 Glen Ivy Rd, Corona, CA 92883, United States
- Phone: 1-888-GLEN IVY
- Website: Glen Ivy Hot Springs
Highlights
- AquaFit classes available
- Cabana options are available to parties.
- Guests can partake in world-class cuisines.
- Enjoy a relaxing spa treatment.
Glen Ivy Hot Springs is a premium indoor resort that offers guests a top-tier relaxing experience. It is the ideal location for families and friends to get away.
The resort has 19 pools and baths, all supplied with natural spring mineral water. You can indulge in the lounge, saline, and lap pools, to mention a few.
Guests can enjoy wonderful meals at the resort. You also get access to world-class spa amenities.
8. Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn
- Location: Boyes Blvd, Sonoma, CA
- Address: 100 Boyes Blvd, Sonoma, CA 95476, United States
- Phone: +1 707-938-9000
- Website: Fairmount Sonoma Mission Inn
Highlights
- Accommodation services are available.
- 18-hole golf course on the resort.
- Spa amenities available
- Several services, including housekeeping, swimming pools, and concierge included.
Fairmount Sonoma Mission Inn is a luxurious resort that offers many wonderful amenities to its guests. The pools and baths get geothermally fed. It makes for a wonderful natural hot spring destination.
Patrons can enjoy dips in the pools and baths. Aside from that, you get good spa treatment facilities for relaxation. It helps you unwind and relax.
You can use the accommodation facilities if you want to stay overnight.
9. Indian Springs Calistoga
- Location: Lincoln Ave, Calistoga, CA
- Address: 1712 Lincoln Ave, Calistoga, CA 94515, United States
- Phone: +1 707-709-8139
- Website: Indian Springs Calistoga
Highlights
- Includes family and adult-only pools
- Spa facilities are available.
- The location accommodates gatherings for special events.
- Guest dining facilities are available.
Indian Springs Calistoga is a wonderful hot springs location. It is located just off Lincoln Avenue. It is a great resort for children and adults.
The modern retreat gives you the best of comfort and nature. The water in their pools and baths gets geothermally heated, and guests can enjoy steaming swims and saunas.
You can book the space for special celebrations, holidays, and conferences.
10. Wilbur Hot Springs
- Location: Wilbur Springs Rd, Williams, CA
- Address: 3375 Wilbur Springs Rd, Williams, CA 95987, United States
- Phone: +1 530-473-2306
- Website: Wilbur Hot Springs
Highlights
- Tiered accommodation resort services are available.
- Camping areas are available.
- Sauna and massage areas are available.
- Off-grid for full nature immersion
If you want to unplug and dissociate from your hectic daily routine, you should try Wilbur Hot Springs. It is an off-the-grid hot springs getaway.
Accommodation gets sorted into tiers. You can have small single bedrooms or large rooms with king-sized beds. For nature buffs, the resort offers plenty of camping grounds.
There are professional masseuses ready to massage guests of the resort.
11. Tecopa Hot Springs Resort
- Location: Hot Springs Rd, Tecopa, CA
- Address: 860 Tecopa Hot Springs Rd, Tecopa, CA 92389, United States
- Phone: +1 760-852-4420
- Website: Tecopa Hot Springs Resort
Highlights
- Huge campgrounds are available for nature buffs.
- Motels and cabins are available.
- Labyrinth circuit
- Natural riparian habitat and wildlife.
Tecopa Hot Springs resort is the ideal getaway for patrons looking to immerse in nature and enjoy the hot springs. It is a premium resort with many facilities.
You get access to camping grounds if you want to rough it for the night. The weather is generally conducive all year round for campers.
The labyrinth circuit is a great way for guests to unwind and meditate.
12. Benton Hot Springs
- Location: Benton, CA
- Address: 55137 Hwy 120, Benton, CA
- Phone: +1 760-933-2287
- Website: Benton Hot Springs
Highlights
- Many accommodation options include inns and rental houses.
- Pet-friendly suits are available.
- 12 natural hot tubs from hot springs.
- Hiking and horse trails are included.
Benton Hot Springs offers guests a wonderful experience at a reasonable price range. You can choose the budget-friendly options for accommodation or splurge for something premium.
The location has multiple hot tubs with geo-heated water. It creates a sauna-like experience where guests can unwind.
There are multiple trails where you can hike and ride horses. The rustic charm of the location is truly something to behold.
13. Wild Willy’s Hot Springs
- Location: Mammoth Lakes, CA
- Address: Hwy 395 Benton Crossing Rd, Mammoth Lakes, CA
- Phone: N/A
- Website: Wild Willy’s Hot Springs
Highlights
- Hiking trails are available.
- Several hot springs of varying sizes are available.
- All-natural terrain and environment.
- Free public access.
Hot spring locations do not have to be expensive. Wild Willy’s is one of the hot spring locations open to the public at no charge.
The hot spring location is one of the most authentic in California. It allows you to experience nature as you’ve never done before.
You get many randomly distributed hot springs of different sizes across a large area. It is large enough to get privacy as you take in the sites.
14. Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort (San Luis Obispo)
- Location: Avila Beach Dr, CA
- Address: 1215 Avila Beach Dr, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405, United States
- Phone: +1 805-595-7302
- Website: Sycamore Mineral Spring Resort.
Highlights
- World-class dining facilities are available.
- Several tiered accommodation options are available.
- Spa and Wellness services are available.
- Biking trail and bike rental services.
Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort is a family-friendly hot spring resort with much to offer both adults and children.
The hot spring destination is a great source of activities for anyone looking for a good time. Guests purchase a day pass, which allows them unlimited access to the pools for the entire day.
The natural bike trails are ideal, especially during beautiful sunsets. Guests can visit the spa for a soothing massage.
15. Saline Valley Hot Springs
- Location: Death Valley National Park, CA
- Address: Death Valley, Death Valley National Park, DEATH VALLEY, CA 92328, United States
- Phone: N/A
- Website: N/A
Highlights
- All-natural desert environment
- Beautiful natural and semi-natural saline springs
- Campsites are available.
- Free entry for all guests.
Saline Valley Hot Springs is a unique and authentic all-natural spot located at the heart of the desert. The climate makes it the ideal location for enjoying hot springs, even during winter.
There are several hot spring locations spread across the area. It is a vast land of epic terrain that resonates well with explorers and adventurers.
Saline Valley Hot Springs has large, decent campsites. You can enjoy the hot springs at no charge.
16. Vichy Springs Resort
- Location: Vichy Springs Rd, Ukiah, CA
- Address: 2605 Vichy Springs Rd, Ukiah, CA 95482, United States
- Phone: +1 707-462-9515
- Website: Vichy Springs Resort
Highlights
- Gusts get access to three geothermal pools.
- There are five nature trails.
- Several local attractions.
- Conference rooms are available at the resort.
Vichy Springs Resort is a great place to unplug and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the city routine. It is a remote hot springs retreat.
Accommodation is classified into levels. There are small single-bed rooms as well as large rooms with king-sized beds. The resort has a lot of camping spots for nature lovers.
You also get access to many nature trails that should set you up for an epic time.
17. Harbin Hot Springs
- Location: Middletown, CA
- Address: 18424 Harbin Springs Rd, Middletown, CA 95461, United States
- Phone: +1 707-987-2477
- Website: Harbin Hot Springs
Highlights
- Several hiking and nature trails are available.
- Yoga classes get offered to guests.
- Organic cuisines get served at the location.
- Natural pools and baths get included.
Harbin Hot Springs provides a wonderful experience at an affordable price. You can choose a low-cost option or spend some money on something luxurious.
There are several geo-heated hot tubs at the location. It generates a sauna-like environment in which tourists can relax.
There are numerous hiking and horseback riding trails. The quaint charm of the site is truly breathtaking.
18. Sespe Hot Springs
- Location: Los Padres Forest, Maricopa, CA.
- Address: Los Padres Forest, Maricopa, California 93252
- Phone: N/A
- Website: N/A
Highlights
- Camping trails available onsite
- Several hiking trails are available.
- All-year-round access
- It is free for public use.
Sespe Hot Springs is a wonderful hot springs destination for all nature lovers. It is an all-natural site that helps you be at one with nature.
There are many hot spring spots in the area. It is a vast wilderness with astounding terrain that endears travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.
The campsites at Sespe Valley Hot Springs are spacious and well-maintained. You can enjoy the hot springs for free.
19. Desert Hot Springs
- Location: Greater Palm Springs, CA.
- Address: Address. 10805 Palm Dr, Desert Hot Springs, Greater Palm Springs, CA 92240-2511.
- Phone: N/A
- Website: N/A
Highlights
- Camping trails available onsite
- Several hiking trails are available.
- All-year-round access
- It is free for public use.
Desert Hot Springs is a hot spring resort with multiple pools. Its scenic views, relaxing environment, and natural hot springs make it popular.
It is one of the few free hot springs in the area. As a result, it frequently receives hundreds of visitors each day.
Visitors are welcome to camp near the hot springs. You do not have to pay anything to stay at these campgrounds. The emphasis on nature distinguishes Desert Hot Springs from other hot spring locations.
20. Orr Hot Springs
- Location: Orr Springs Rd, Ukiah, CA
- Address: 13201 Orr Springs Rd, Ukiah, CA 95482, United States
- Phone: +1 707-462-6277
- Website: Orr Hot Springs
Highlights
- Great walking and riding trails.
- Massage services are available.
- Onsight camping facilities are available.
- Rooms with natural baths are available.
Orr Hot Springs resort is ideal for visitors who want to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying the hot springs. It is a high-end resort with numerous amenities.
You can access camping grounds if you want to rough it for the night. The weather is generally pleasant for travelers all year.
The modern retreat offers the best of both comfort and nature. Geothermally heated water in their pools and baths allows guests to enjoy bubbling swims and saunas.
Bottom Line
There you have it! The best natural hot springs in Southern California you can visit during your vacation.
Hot Spring destinations are fairly common in California. These destinations offer different experiences to travelers. Finding the destination that checks all your boxes can be difficult, but there are many worth trying.
The article highlights what each of the 20 most popular destinations offers travelers. It is a short guide that should help you find your ideal destination.
