Benton Hot Springs is a place to consider if you are looking for a quiet and relaxing place to soak in a hot spring.
This quiet and peaceful place is a fantastic option for anyone looking to escape the chaos of life. Whether you take a soak in the tub or enjoy the tranquility, chances are you’ll leave Benton Hot Springs feeling rested and balanced.
Today we are introducing you to this wonderful place that we think should be included in your travel plans. Let’s take a look at it!
About Benton Hot Springs
Benton Hot Springs is located in Benton, California. The city is located in west central California, about 100 miles northeast of Fresno and only 50 miles from Yosemite National Park. The remote location of these geothermal pools is an ideal place to relax and get away from people.
The Paiute people, who enjoyed bathing in the springs, first inhabited this land. However, when colonists discovered silver nearby in 1864, the area developed explosively. The town thrived on silver mining for over 50 years before losing momentum.
To swim at Benton Hot Springs, you must stay at the campground or inn. For guests, however, the charm of the 1,255-acre ranch is an unforgettable experience.
Joshua said, “A wonderful place to find absolute peace and relaxation! I can’t express how happy we both were after a few nights. We booked our next stay while we were still there.”
What is Benton Hot Springs known for?
Most people know Benton Hot Springs for the pleasant and relaxing hot springs available to guests. The most popular option is to stay at one of the 12 campgrounds that have their own hot tubs to relax in.
Not only do you have the tub all to yourself, but the foliage and trees provide more privacy and allow the tubs to be used without clothing.
In addition to the hot tub campsites, guests can also stay at the inn. This is a 1940s building that has been restored by management to look just as it did in the 1940s. Guests share one of the three communal bathrooms.
Are the hot springs natural?
The hot springs at Benton Hot Springs are all natural. The water comes out of the springs at a temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit, but the owners pipe the water to individual tubs and cool it to 102 degrees Fahrenheit.
The owners have managed to create a very natural environment where it is easy to relax.
About the hot tub locations
There are 12 hot tub sites that guests can reserve in advance for tent or RV camping. There is no day or hour use available, so make sure you have a reservation. If not, you could be wasting your time.
The vegetation around each site consists of cottonwoods and other dense foliage to create privacy between sites. To protect the natural atmosphere, no music or other loud noises are allowed throughout the park.
While there are no hookups, each site has a private hot tub, picnic table, grill and fire pit. The inn does not sell firewood, and gathering wood in the area is not permitted. Bring plenty of firewood if you want to build a campfire during your stay.
What is there to do in Benton Hot Springs?
Here are some excellent suggestions if you’re looking for things to do when you’re not soaking in a hot spring. You can easily spend a few days exploring and relaxing in this beautiful area.
Visit Hot Creek Geological Site
Location: Hot Creek Hatchery Rd, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546
Hot Creek Geological Site was once a popular swimming spot like Benton Hot Springs. However, that is no longer the case. Rising water temperatures have prompted local officials to ban people from entering the water.
Guests have suffered severe burns and health problems due to the high water temperatures. Save yourself the pain and legal problems and stay out of the water.
However, you can still enjoy the view of the geysers, the heated pools, and the instability of the ground and streams. The turquoise heated pools are beautiful and great for photos.
Hike to Rainbow Falls
Location: Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546
The hike to Rainbow Falls is a 1.3 mile hike. But every step is worth it when you can see the 101-foot Rainbow Falls. The water rushes down the rocks so fast that the mist creates a beautiful rainbow at sunrise and sunset.
The falls are located in the Inyo National Forest and along the San Joaquin River. The entire area is incredible and worth exploring.
Guests who want to explore the Inyo National Forest for several days can stay at one of the nearby campgrounds. In addition to hiking, you can also go swimming, diving, kayaking, whitewater rafting, and other adventurous activities.
Please note: How do you stow a kayak in an RV? Click on the link to find out!
Visit Travertine Hot Springs
Location: Bridgeport, CA 93517
Travertine Hot Springs is another fantastic option for those who haven’t had enough time to soak in the hot springs. Located on the grounds of California State Park, these springs include three rock-bottomed pools and one cement pool.
People have used the springs for thousands of years. Originally, they were used by the Paleo-Indians.
Because of their mineral-rich waters, some tribes believe the warm waters of the springs have healing and cleansing powers. In the 1800s and 1900s, local herders used the springs to rid their sheep of infections and bacteria.
Bathers should be careful, however, because unlike Benton Hot Springs, temperatures can range from 115 to 156 degrees Fahrenheit. These steaming pools can become very dangerous as temperatures can rise quickly.
Hiking on the Mammoth Rock Trail
Location: Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546
Mammoth Rock Trail is a 5.1 mile round trip with a moderate rating. With only 774 feet of elevation gain, it is not overly challenging, but Mammoth Lakes, CA is at 7,500+ and may increase the difficulty of this hike.
This is one of the most popular hikes in the area and offers incredible views of alpine forests and mountain landscapes. However, it is popular with mountain bikers, so stay alert and give them room if they need to pass.
Hiking the Hot Creek Interpretive Trail
Location: Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546
The Hot Creek Interpretive Trail is a 1.6 mile out and back trail with only 144 feet of elevation gain and is relatively easy. Most hikers can complete this trail in less than 40 minutes and it is popular with cross-country skiers, anglers, and hikers.
The views remind some visitors of Iceland, and the views of the surrounding Eastern Sierras are hard to beat. There is water in some areas along the trail, but water temperatures are usually too hot for humans.
Please note: This hike is illegal (but most people hike it anyway)
Spend a relaxing weekend at Benton Hot Springs
Benton Hot Springs is the perfect place to spend a relaxing weekend. Whether you want to spend the weekend in your private hot tub or return after adventuring and exploring the surrounding area, Benton Hot Springs is a fantastic option.
The place is rich in adventure and offers something for almost everyone. If you are passing through, allow some time to relax for a day or two in Benton Hot Springs.
Will you book a campground with its own hot springs on your next adventure?