Located in central-eastern California, The Inn at Benton Hot Springs in the town of Benton is the perfect spot to relax and collect your thoughts. This property is as serene as it gets, with lush foliage and cottonwood trees surrounding the area and humble accommodations that are welcoming to all.
The inn is on open land belonging to a 1,255-acre ranch and has natural hot springs water that comes out of the ground at 140℉. Visitors can use the hot tubs during the day or on overnight stays while taking in the sweeping mountain views and listening to the sounds of the environment.
Remote areas with modern facilities are tough to find, and this is one of California’s lesser-known gems.
History
Benton is one of Mono County’s oldest towns. Its natural hot springs drew the Paiute people to spend time there before it was developed. In the late 19th century, silver was discovered near the town, and it also became a stop on the Carson and Colorado Railroad. This allowed Benton to continue to thrive and was purchased by a couple in 1928.
Today, descendants of the original owners and the Historic Benton Hot Springs nonprofit work together to keep its rustic charm for travelers.
The Inn at Benton Hot Springs was originally another hotel in 1904. During the 1940s, a new structure was built to provide lodging and three hot tubs fed by the hot springs. The inside was renovated in the late 1990s, but the original layout and floorplan of the inn are the same as it was several decades ago.
Lodging
This property has several unique accommodations for visitors coming through Benton. There are standard motel rooms, house rentals, and camping sites with personal hot tubs.
Rooms at The Inn
All of the ten rooms are based inside the cozy vintage building. They surround a beautiful garden with a fountain and grassy area, and each room has its own theme.
All guest rooms come with a TV, ceiling fan, air conditioning, robes, and a full breakfast in the morning. Also included is a semi-private or private bathtub filled with spring water in a natural setting.
Victor Suite – Showcasing a world-travel theme, queen bed, and a garden view near the hot tubs.
Allegra May – A room inspired by the 1930s with a queen bed, twin bed, and a waterfall feature.
Mabelle – A large room with two full beds and an elegant Western theme, especially highlighting women of the western-era.
Buster Suite – Another Western-themed room with Native American photos and a cowboy mural. This room has a view of the patio/pond area.
Marquessa Suite – This room has two queen-sized iron beds, a private bath, and a blend of Victorian and Western decor. It also has lovely views of the White Mountains.
Bermuda Suite – Featuring a tropical island theme, this room is painted and decorated to resemble the Caribbean. The furnishings have that island vibe and come with a queen bed and a single rattan daybed. This room also has views of the White Mountains.
JV Suite – With views of the White Mountains and front courtyard, this room has a sleigh bed, along with Victorian and Art Deco pieces.
Miners Cabin – A more private, rural, and renovated cabin set back away from the main inn building. This actual structure was once used by miners and is now a luxurious lodge. There’s no A/C, but it has a fan for warm nights and heating for cold nights.
House Rentals
Each house rental comes with its own private bath and is set up for families or small groups traveling together.
Conway House – This 1870s house was once used as a family home and boarding house, but in the early 2000s, it was renovated to have a western ranch theme. There are three bedrooms that sleep six with queen and twin beds, A/C, a patio, WiFi, TV, and views of the White Mountains. Up to two pets are allowed without fees, and more than six people gatherings must be pre-approved.
Hobbit House – A 800 sq ft historic Benton pioneer cottage that still has its original rock walls. There’s just one bedroom with a queen bed and queen-size pullout sofa, but it also has a large oversized soaking tub, a fully-stocked kitchen, WiFi, A/C, and beautiful gardens. This house does not allow pets.
Miners Cabin – The Miners Cabin is also listed as a house rental property. It is a redesigned, more remote cabin that miners on the hill once used. Except for battery-operated lights, there are no utilities, making for an authentic “glamping” experience. It also has a fan and heating available.
The Bungalow – A 1960s-decorated two-bedroom house set about 150 yards away from the inn. The home has a full kitchen, satellite TV, WiFi, a living room, a porch, and a psychedelic sunroom. While there is no breakfast provided with this rental, guests can bring up to two pets. Guests staying here can book just one room at this house for a lesser rate.
Hot Tub Campsites
The campground at The Inn at Benton Hot Springs provides an incredible experience. There are 12 sites that can be used for tent, camper, or RV camping, and each one has a private hot springs bath, picnic table, fire pit, and grill.
The soaking areas have natural privacy with trees and some fencing, so clothing is optional for bathing. Two leashed pets are allowed on each site, and some sites are fitted for two people while others are suitable for three.
Details
Address: 55137 CA-120, Benton, California 93512
Phone: 760-933-2287
Season: Year-round
Website: bentonhotsprings.us
10 Rules and Safety Tips for Hot Springs Use