Deep Creek Hot Springs California: Your Ultimate Guide

Deep Creek Hot Springs, located in the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains, is the best natural hot springs in Southern California.
Most hikers take the shortest route to the hot springs and park at Bowen Ranch. The hike to the hot springs is about two miles from the parking area. Remember that the trail downhill and the climb back out are almost all uphill. Please bring plenty of water for the hike; you will need it.

Natural Hot Springs Pools

The Hot Springs are adjacent to and above Deep Creek. The springs are famous for their lithium-rich mineral waters, with temperatures ranging from 96°F to 105°F. Depending on the season, five to seven pools are typically available, with the largest pool accommodating about ten people. The pool nearest to the creek is only slightly warm, making it ideal for hot days, while the higher pools in the rocks can reach temperatures of up to 105°F. Deep Creek hot pools have a sandy bottom, not the sticky mud found at many natural hot springs.

Skinny Dipping and Naked Hikers

Nudity is common here, although many visitors do wear shorts or swimwear. You might even encounter a naked hiker along the way. Weekend crowds are not uncommon, even during the hot summer. The best time to visit is during the week when fewer visitors are expected. The pool crowd is a mix of twenty-year-olds out for an adventure, hippie types, locals, and hikers. Nudity is common at the springs, which may not suit everyone, especially families with children.

Swimming in Deep Creek

In addition to the hot springs, Deep Creek has several year-round swimming holes, one popular with cliff divers, but there is only one place if you want to do some dipping. Deep Creek Hot Springs has a year-round creek and natural hot springs. There is even a sandy beach area next to the creek. And while there may be a few people here who seem a little sketchy (depending on the time of your visit), most are friendly.

Directions to Deep Creek Hot Springs

This hike is not recommended for families. A few naked people will likely be here, soaking up the sun and dipping in the pools. Rattlesnakes are present in the area, and summer temperatures can become extremely hot.

The best way to get to the hot springs is via Bowen Ranch. The ranch is private property and charges for daily use of the parking area.  If there is nobody around to take your money, there are envelopes. Be sure to pay the fee. Driving to Bowen Ranch or the campground involves a bumpy 6-mile dirt road (Bowen Ranch Road) accessible by most vehicles if driven slowly; high-clearance vehicles are recommended but not required.

Directions to Deep Creek can be found on Google Maps or the guide on Bing Maps. For detailed directions, information, rules, and etiquette, visit the Deep Creek Volunteers Website.

Tips for Visiting Deep Creek Hot Springs

Preparation: Wear sturdy hiking boots for the rocky, steep trail. Bring a paper map or GPS for navigation and check weather conditions. Bring plenty of drinking water. The hike back is steep.
Connectivity: Cell reception is spotty. Have a charged phone for emergencies.
Kids & Dogs: The hike and hot pools are less than ideal for young children and dogs. Leave them with a sitter or relative.
Camping: No camping is allowed within one mile of the hot springs.
Health and Safety: The hot springs contain a rare but potentially fatal amoeba (primary amoebic meningoencephalitis) and often have high fecal coliform levels.

Guide to California and Beyond Natural Hot Springs