Situated in Central California dating back to the nineteenth century, Mono Hot Springs is a wilderness retreat with a variety of geothermal pools, historical lodging, and campgrounds. There’s also an on-site general store and world-class fishing access.
The rustic resort is set on the west slope of the famous Sierra Nevada mountains in an ideal location between Yosemite and Kings Canyon National Parks.
Hot Spring Tubs and Spa
Since the nineteenth century, Mono Indians have been leading trips to the springs for the health benefits provided by the geothermally heated mineral water. Taking advantage of the springs’ historical therapeutic qualities, Mono Hot Springs Resort features a variety of pools and tubs.
Mono Hot Springs Resort boasts a large bathhouse in which natural mineral water is piped in and distributed to multiple soaking tubs and showers. Typically, the water in the bathhouse fluctuates between 100 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit, which is a perfect temperature range for relaxing and unwinding.
Besides the indoor soaking tubs and showers, the Bathhouse complex also includes an outdoor mineral water spa offering views of the nearby peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Of these dozen pools, the most significant is Old Pedro, a cement lined pool built by the California Conservation Corps in 1934. This pool provides a much warmer experience, often averaging around 107 degrees F, making it intermittent breaks necessary to avoid overheating.
Natural Hot Spring Pools
For those looking for a more natural experience, the resort also features over a dozen geothermally heated natural pools throughout the property. To access these more remote pools, simply cross the natural log bridge that spans the San Joaquin River.
For those seeking privacy, Little Eden is situated high on a ridge above Old Pedro, offering stunning views for those willing to make the steep climb.
Accommodations
Mono Hot Springs provides an array of accommodations including both historical and traditional cabins as well as campsites. Of these options, the nicest and most well-appointed are the Historic Cabins. These cabins, which vary from one room to two bedrooms, offer furnished and appointed kitchens, bedrooms, and toilets. While there is electricity, there are no electrical outlets due to the limited availability of energy on the property. For those needing to charge, outlets are available in the General Store.
The resort also offers unappointed Tent Cabins, which are made of heavy-duty canvas. Linen-less beds are provided with a community restroom nearby.
Similarly, Mono Hot Springs features a small section of wood-paneled Camping Cabins with bedding included. Just like the Tent Cabins, a community restroom is located nearby.
For those hoping to sleep under the stars, a campground is located just across the San Joaquin River and is operated by the California Land Management. This campground features 23 sites situated along the river. There are only two first-come, first-serve sites, so reservations, up to six months in advance, are highly recommended.
Other Activities
Nestled into what is known as the Range of Light, Mono Hot Springs Resort provides guests with unparalleled hiking access in the John Muir Wilderness of California. Hikers may trek to a variety of nearby, or faraway lakes, ranging from one to seven or more miles.
Additionally, the multitude of lakes and streams near the resort offers a world-class trout fishing experience. Guests may fish on the San Joaquin River as well as a variety of other more remote fishing locations nearby.
Finally, guests can enjoy boating and kayaking on the nearby lakes. Many ferry services offer trips across the water while fishing boats and kayaks are available for rent at Florence Lake. Take a trip to Mono Hot Springs resort and fall back in love with the great outdoors!
Details
Address: 62804 Huntington Lake Rd, Lakeshore, California 93634
Phone: 559-325-1710
Season: Spring-Late Fall
Website: monohotsprings.com
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