If you’re traveling along the Long Valley Caldera area of California in search of the best hot springs, consider a stop at The Rock Tub Hot Springs – commonly misreferred to as the Whitmore Hot Springs. This cozy, small-scale option is among the most visited in the Mammoth Lakes region and has gorgeous 360° views.
The Rock Tub Hot Springs is famous for two main reasons: its ease of access and superb location.
Natural Hot Springs Pool
Getting to this hot tub is a cinch. In fact, it’s likely one of the first hot spring tubs you will find along the series of dotted hot springs in the area, making it all the more popular amongst travelers. No hiking or extensive traveling is required, making it ideal for soaker-seekers who don’t want to spend too much time on their feet.
Although it’s just a short distance from the parking lot, it’s superiorly nestled amidst plenty of greenery to give you that “all-natural” atmosphere. Not only that but it’s situated at the end of a majestic meadow with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Sierra Nevada Mountain Range.
The tub itself is pretty small. It stands just two feet tall and can accommodate up to eight people. It’s crafted from a combination of cement and rocks in an effort to create an “organic” appearance that looks as though the tub was formed by nature itself.
Oh, and here’s a fair warning – much like the other hot spring pools in the area, The Rock Tub Hot Springs is a clothing-optional location. So be prepared (or excited) to soak in the nude or relinquish alongside relaxers in the buff.
The Rock Tub Hot Springs pool may be the ideal choice if you prefer slightly cooler water temperatures. Unlike nearby pools, this hot spring location tends to hover around 90 to 100°F and does not benefit from an adjustable valve – although there is a drain for cleaning. The water flows directly from the source, a bog approximately 400 feet away.
Camping
Dispersed camping is allowed and quite popular in the area surrounding Rock Tub Hot Springs. However, note that camping is not permitted directly next to the tub or the delicate meadows, and there are zero facilities. It’s best to find signs indicating where “Freedom Camping” is allowed and ensure you bring plenty of trash bags to remove waste.
If you’re interested in more developed campsites or places to RV, there are many great spots nearby, including the:
- McGee Creek RV Park & Campground
- Big Springs Campground
- Convict Lake Campground
- Mammoth Mountain RV Park
The closest one is Brown’s Owens River Campground, about 11 minutes away.
Due to its proximity to Mammoth Lakes, travelers can enjoy the many hotels, B&Bs, and other accommodations in the city without straying too far from the comfy tubs.
Getting There
The Rock Tub Hot Springs is one of the most accessible hot springs to locate in the Long Valley Caldera region. You can simply plug the name into Google Maps and be directed to it immediately.
However, you will not be able to search for “Whitmore Hot Springs” and receive directions. Although The Rock Tub Hot Springs is known to locals as “Whitmore Hot Springs,” it is not the name for this destination and will leave you going down a long, dirt road with no hot springs in sight.
To get to The Rock Tub Hot Springs, follow these directions from Mammoth Lakes:
- Start on US-395 S
- Turn right onto Benton Crossing Road
- Continue for 1.1 miles, then turn left onto Whitmore Tubs Road
- Continue for another 1.1 miles, then turn onto the unmarked dirt road
- Continue for 0.1 miles, then turn into the parking lot
Keep in mind that during periods of heavy snowfall, these roads may be inaccessible by car.
Once you reach the parking area, you can clearly locate The Rock Tub Hot Springs on the left. There is no hiking or extensive walking required to reach the pool.
Details
Address: Whitmore Tubs Rd, Mammoth Lakes, California 93546
Clothing: Optional
Season: Year-round
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