Buckeye Hot Springs

## Overview Buckeye Hot Springs is a beloved natural hot spring located along the Eastern Sierra in Mono County, California, near the town of Bridgeport. Situated at an elevation of roughly 6,900 feet along Buckeye Creek, these free, primitive hot springs are among the most popular geothermal soaking spots in the region. The springs emerge from the hillside at high temperatures and cascade down into a series of rock-lined soaking pools along the creek bank, where the hot mineral water mixes with the cool creek water to create a range of comfortable bathing temperatures. Buckeye Hot Springs sits within the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, surrounded by dramatic Sierra scenery — sagebrush-covered hills, towering pines, and rugged mountain peaks. The geothermal activity in this area is part of the broader volcanic and hydrothermal system associated with the Long Valley Caldera and the Eastern Sierra fault zone. The springs have been enjoyed by locals and travelers for generations, and the area has long been a gathering spot for hikers, campers, and hot spring enthusiasts exploring the Eastern Sierra backcountry. The water temperature at the source can be extremely hot — well above safe soaking levels — but the pools closer to the creek are cooled by the mixing of creek water, allowing visitors to find a pool at their preferred temperature. The mineral-rich water has historically been valued by visitors for its soothing qualities. As with all natural hot springs, water temperatures and conditions can vary with the seasons and recent weather. ## Directions 1. From the town of **Bridgeport, CA**, head west on **Twin Lakes Road** (also signed as Doc & Al's Road or Forest Road 017). 2. Continue approximately **3.5 miles** from the Highway 395 junction. 3. Look for a **dirt pullout and trailhead on the left (south) side** of the road, just before the road crosses Buckeye Creek. There is typically a small parking area. 4. From the pullout, follow the short but steep trail down the hillside toward the creek — the descent is roughly 100–200 feet and can be slippery, especially when wet. 5. The soaking pools are located along the bank of Buckeye Creek at the base of the hillside. *GPS coordinates: 38.2167, -119.3236. A high-clearance vehicle is not required in summer, but the dirt road may be rough or impassable in winter and early spring due to snow.* ## What to Expect Buckeye Hot Springs is a rustic, undeveloped soaking area — there are no facilities, changing rooms, or services on-site. Visitors should be prepared for a short but steep scramble down a hillside trail to reach the pools. Footwear with good traction is recommended, as the path can be loose and rocky. At the springs, you'll find several rock-and-sand pools of varying sizes along the edge of Buckeye Creek. The uppermost pools closest to the source tend to be the hottest, while those closer to the creek are cooler and more comfortable for extended soaking. It's common for visitors to adjust the temperature by moving rocks to allow more or less creek water into their pool. The setting is stunning — soaking in warm mineral water with views of the surrounding Sierra peaks and the sound of the creek rushing by. The area is especially popular during summer and fall, though the springs can be accessed year-round depending on road conditions. Winter visits may require a longer walk in if the road is snow-covered. **Important notes:** - The water at the source is dangerously hot. Always test the temperature before entering any pool. - Clothing-optional bathing is common here. - There is no potable water or restroom on-site. Nearby Buckeye Campground (further up the road) may have basic facilities during the camping season. - Pack out all trash — this is a "leave no trace" area within the national forest. - The springs can be busy on weekends; early mornings and weekdays offer a more peaceful experience.