The small, charming town of Tecopa is located south of Death Valley and is well known for its numerous hot springs that bubble up all over the area. There are quite a few resorts, pools, and primitive sites spread throughout, with plenty of camping options for those who are looking to spend the night.
The Inyo County Tecopa Hot Mineral Springs are classified as primary hot springs, with water that fluctuates between 116°F and 118°F. These healing waters have attracted visitors for over 100 years and were once used for ceremonies by Native Americans.
During the summer, the ambient temperature can reach 121°F to 135°F, much too hot for soaking, and is adjusted by changing the flow rate.
There are many outdoor activities to enjoy during your stay in Tecopa, whether you are looking for a guided hike or a solo adventure. The land around this quaint town is expansive, and it is important to pack accordingly (i.e. water and let someone know where you are going).
Death Valley National Park is nearby and a great place to take in California’s beautiful scenery. While it is one of the hottest places in the world, it is also the largest national park in the US.
Dumont Dunes is a mother popular location for off-roading, thanks to their big bowls and steep inclines. You can also visit the Mojave National Preserve, which looks out onto a large Joshua tree forest. From there, you can spot an abundance of wildlife, such as coyotes, bighorn sheep, and black-tailed jackrabbits.
Delight’s Hot Springs Resort
Delight’s Hot Springs Resort is aptly named, as many who have stayed at this charming roadside retreat can contest. With its public and private soaking pools, mud baths, and plentiful overnight options, it is the perfect spot to relax and unwind.
Mineral Spring Pools
At Delight’s Hot Springs Resort, you will find a brand-new outdoor swimming pool and four private hot spring bathhouses. Each bathhouse has a pool, shower, and changing area that you can enjoy in 30-minute increments.
The water temperature stays between 102°F and 104°F and comes in crystal clear, straight from the source.
The staff at Delight’s Hot Springs Resort is well versed in balneology (the study of therapeutic bathing and medicinal springs) and can provide extensive information regarding the mineral breakdown in their water.
Overnight Accommodations
You have plenty of options when it comes to staying overnight at Delight’s Hot Springs Resort including cottages, cabins, motel rooms, and even houses, depending on your party size and vacation needs.
The cabins, cottages, and houses range in size from 1 bedroom to 3 bedrooms and come fully furnished with everything you need to enjoy your stay.
They also have an expansive RV park, situated alongside a duck pond, that looks out towards the Nopah Mountain Range. There are 50- and 30-Amp electrical hookups, as well as sewer and water lines.
368 Tecopa Hot Springs Rd, Tecopa, CA 92389 | (760) 852-4343 | delightshotspringsresort.com
Tecopa Hot Springs Campground & Pools
The Tecopa Hot Springs Campground & Pools is a well-known site that focuses on relaxation, restoration, and adventure. A perfect place to take the family, this popular vacation spot has full restroom facilities, separate enclosed pools, and a community center.
Mineral Spring Pools
The baths at Tecopa Hot Springs Campground & Pool are filled with ancient underground aquifers. The water is untreated and is piped directly into the baths, giving visitors the cleanest, most natural soak possible.
Clothing is prohibited, and to accommodate the guests’ comfort, there are separate men’s and women’s soaking baths as well as a private bath that can be rented for those who would like more seclusion.
Shopping and Dining
There is a fully stocked trading post only steps away from the main office to accommodate all your shopping needs. Colorful and well decorated, this store has everything from groceries and camping equipment to local art and gifts.
“The Bistro” is an on-site restaurant that is open Wednesday through Sunday. Their menu consists of a wide range of delicious items, from breakfast to dinner and snacks in-between. They also have live music Saturday evenings, and guest chefs are regularly known to stop by.
Overnight Accommodations
There are over 100 camping sites at the Tecopa Hot Springs Campground, from simple tents and ‘glamping’ cabins to dozens of RV hookups, complete with electricity and sewer hookups.
When it comes to setting up your tent, there are designated campsites located throughout the property, and it is not too difficult to find a secluded area. If you don’t have a tent of your own, don’t worry, you can also rent one for a small fee.
The glamping cabin site is referred to at Camptown Terrace and has two rustic cabins next to each other. They come outfitted with either a queen-sized bed or two full-sized beds, electricity, air conditioning, and wi-fi.
400 Tecopa Hot Springs Rd, Tecopa, CA 92389 | (760) 852-4377 | tecopahotspringscampground.com
Tecopa Hot Springs Tub
The Tecopa Hot Springs Tub is a free outdoor soaking pool that is popular for its mineral water and the exfoliating mud around it. This is a primitive site set away from the other resorts, and while it lacks basic amenities, it makes up for in natural splendor.
The Soaking Tub
Located 2 miles outside of Tecopa, the soaking tub is built into the ground and comprised of a concrete basin large enough to hold 6 people. There is a large palm that bends over the pool, offering some shade, but otherwise, you are experiencing the Mojave Desert at its finest (and potentially hottest!).
The water fluctuates between 95°F and 100°F, though it can get considerably hotter during the summer months. This site is clothing-optional, and while camping is not permitted at the pool, the area surrounding the spring is public land.
Furnace Creek Road, Shoshone, CA 92384
No matter where you venture in Tecopa, there are plenty of hot spring sites to choose from, just make sure you are prepared to handle the areas high temperatures, especially during summer. We are certain you will find the perfect spot for a little R&R by taking a trip to this region of California. Happy Soaking!
Frenchman’s Bend (Warfield) Hot Springs – Ketchum, Idaho