Crowley Hot Springs

## Overview Crowley Hot Springs is a free natural hot spring located in the Eastern Sierra region of California, near the town of Mammoth Lakes. Situated at approximately 37.661°N, 118.768°W, these geothermal soaking pools sit along the edge of the Long Valley Caldera — one of the most volcanically active regions in North America. The caldera was formed roughly 760,000 years ago by a massive volcanic eruption, and the residual geothermal activity continues to heat groundwater that surfaces at spots like Crowley Hot Springs. Also sometimes referred to by locals as "Wild Willy's" or nearby associated hot springs in the Mammoth Lakes area, Crowley Hot Springs offers a rustic, undeveloped soaking experience with sweeping views of the Sierra Nevada and the Glass Mountains. The springs are free to visit and are a popular destination for both locals and travelers exploring the Eastern Sierra. ## Directions 1. From the town of Mammoth Lakes, head south on US-395. 2. Look for Benton Crossing Road and turn east (left if heading south). 3. Follow Benton Crossing Road for several miles, keeping an eye out for dirt turnoffs and informal parking areas on the south side of the road. 4. The hot springs are accessed via short dirt roads or paths leading from informal pullouts. A high-clearance vehicle may be helpful, especially in wet or snowy conditions. 5. Use the GPS coordinates (37.6610, -118.7678) to navigate to the approximate location, as signage is minimal or nonexistent. *Note: These directions are approximate and based on the GPS coordinates provided. Road conditions and access points can change seasonally. It is recommended to check local conditions before visiting, especially during winter months when snow may limit access.* ## What to Expect Crowley Hot Springs is an undeveloped, primitive hot spring — expect natural rock-and-mud-lined soaking pools rather than any built infrastructure. The pools vary in temperature depending on proximity to the geothermal source, and water temperatures can range from warm to very hot. Exercise caution when entering any pool, as temperatures can be scalding near the source. The surrounding landscape is high desert and sagebrush steppe, offering panoramic views of the Eastern Sierra. The area is remote and exposed, with little to no shade, so sun protection is advisable during warmer months. There are no restrooms, trash cans, or other facilities — visitors should pack out everything they bring in. The springs can be visited year-round, though winter access may be limited by snow on dirt roads. Spring and fall tend to offer the most comfortable conditions for soaking, with cooler air temperatures complementing the hot water. Summer visits can be very warm during the day but pleasant in the evening. As with all natural hot springs, the water is untreated. The geothermal water in the Long Valley Caldera area has historically been noted for its mineral content, but no specific water quality data is available for this site. Soaking is the primary activity — drinking the water is not recommended without independent testing.