Holtville Hot Springs

## Overview Holtville Hot Springs, also known as Hot Spring or Highline Hot Springs, is a free, natural geothermal soaking area located in the agricultural flatlands of Imperial Valley, California, just a few miles south of the small town of Holtville. Situated at approximately 32.7654° N, 115.2699° W, this desert hot spring has long been a popular stop for winter visitors, snowbirds, and travelers passing through the region near the Mexican border. The hot springs emerge from the geothermally active zone beneath the Imperial Valley, which sits along the boundary of the Pacific and North American tectonic plates. This same geological activity that feeds the Salton Sea's geothermal fields is responsible for the naturally heated water here. The area features concrete-lined soaking pools that have been constructed over the years by visitors and local enthusiasts, channeling the hot mineral water into comfortable bathing tubs. Water temperatures can vary but have been reported to be quite hot at the source, often requiring mixing or cooling before soaking. Holtville Hot Springs is situated on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land, making it free and open to the public. The site has historically attracted a seasonal community of campers and RVers, particularly during the cooler months from late fall through early spring, when the desert climate is most pleasant and the hot water is especially inviting. ## Directions 1. From the town of Holtville, California, head south on CA-115 (Holtville Road). 2. Travel approximately 5–6 miles south of Holtville. 3. Look for a dirt turnoff on the east (left) side of the road — the springs are located just off the highway amid flat, open desert terrain. 4. The GPS coordinates (32.7654, -115.2699) can be entered into a navigation app to guide you directly to the site. 5. The area is accessible by standard vehicles, though the final approach is on unpaved ground. *Note: These directions are approximate and based on the GPS coordinates provided. Conditions and access points may change — checking recent visitor reports before your trip is recommended.* ## What to Expect Visitors will find a rustic, no-frills soaking experience in the open desert. The site typically features several concrete or rock-lined pools of varying temperatures, fed by naturally heated geothermal water. The water has a mineral-rich character common to geothermal springs in the Imperial Valley. The surrounding landscape is flat, arid desert with wide-open views — don't expect shade or facilities. There are no restrooms, trash services, or developed amenities, so visitors should plan to pack out everything they bring in. The area is popular for dispersed camping on the adjacent BLM land, and during peak season (November through March), you may find a small community of campers set up nearby. Summer temperatures in the Imperial Valley regularly exceed 110°F (43°C), making visits during the hot months uncomfortable or even dangerous. The best time to visit is between October and April, when daytime highs are more moderate and the hot water feels most enjoyable. As with all natural hot springs, water temperatures can fluctuate and may be scalding at the source — always test the water carefully before entering. The mineral content and natural setting mean the water has not been treated or tested to municipal standards.