Tecopa Hot Springs

## Overview Tecopa Hot Springs is a free, naturally heated geothermal spring located in the small desert community of Tecopa, California, in southeastern Inyo County. Situated along the edge of the Amargosa River basin and just a short drive from Death Valley National Park, Tecopa has long been known for its mineral-rich hot springs, which have drawn visitors for centuries. The springs are fed by geothermal activity deep beneath the Mojave Desert floor, producing water that typically emerges at temperatures ranging from approximately 108°F to 118°F (42°C–48°C). The water has historically been valued for its high mineral content, including sodium, sulfate, bicarbonate, and other dissolved minerals. Native Paiute and Shoshone peoples are believed to have used these thermal waters for bathing and healing long before European settlers arrived. The town itself is named after Chief Tecopa, a Southern Paiute leader who was known as a peacemaker in the region during the 19th century. In the mid-20th century, Tecopa became a modest resort destination, and the Inyo County Parks Department developed public bathhouses fed by the natural hot springs. Today, visitors can enjoy free soaking at the Tecopa Hot Springs County Park, which offers gender-segregated indoor mineral baths (clothing-optional) at no charge. The area also hosts several private resorts and campgrounds that provide additional soaking options. ## Directions 1. From Las Vegas, NV, head west on NV-160 (Blue Diamond Road) toward Pahrump, then continue south on CA-127 toward Death Valley Junction. 2. From Death Valley Junction, head south on CA-127 for approximately 28 miles. 3. Turn right (west) onto Tecopa Hot Springs Road. 4. Follow Tecopa Hot Springs Road for about 3 miles until you reach the small community of Tecopa Hot Springs. 5. The Tecopa Hot Springs County Park and free public bathhouses are located at approximately 155 Bloss Road, Tecopa, CA 92389. Look for signage directing you to the bathhouses and campground area. Alternatively, from Baker, CA (off I-15), head north on CA-127 for roughly 56 miles, then turn left onto Tecopa Hot Springs Road. ## What to Expect Tecopa Hot Springs offers a rustic, off-the-grid desert soaking experience. The free public bathhouses at the Inyo County-operated park feature separate facilities for men and women, with natural mineral water piped directly from the underground springs into concrete soaking pools. The bathhouses are clothing-optional and typically open from early morning until evening — check posted hours upon arrival, as they can vary seasonally. The water temperature in the bathhouses is quite hot, often exceeding 100°F, so visitors should ease in gradually and stay hydrated, especially during the scorching summer months when ambient temperatures can exceed 110°F. Spring and fall are the most popular seasons to visit, offering warm days and cool desert nights that make a hot soak especially enjoyable. Winter visits can also be wonderful, with chilly nighttime temperatures making the steaming mineral water feel heavenly. The surrounding landscape is stark, beautiful high desert — expect wide-open views of the Amargosa Range, creosote flats, and dramatic desert skies. The area is remote, so visitors should arrive with a full tank of gas, plenty of water, and any supplies they may need. Cell service can be spotty. The Tecopa Hot Springs Campground, adjacent to the bathhouses, offers both RV and tent camping sites for a fee, with access to the free bathhouses included. Several private establishments in the area — including Delight's Hot Springs Resort and others — offer additional soaking pools, lodging, and amenities. Nearby attractions include the China Ranch Date Farm (about 8 miles south), the Amargosa Opera House in Death Valley Junction, and Death Valley National Park itself, making Tecopa an excellent base camp for desert exploration.