Bertrand Ranch Springs

Inyo County, California · Near Dixon Lane-Meadow Creek
37.8880°N, 118.4870°W · 5,570 ft
70°F 5,570 ft Roadside Camping nearby (24.5 mi)

Bertrand Ranch Springs produces water at only 70 degrees Fahrenheit in Inyo County's high desert, offering a subtle thermal feature where geothermal activity barely exceeds ambient conditions.

Location
6 miles from Dixon Lane-Meadow Creek, CA

The spring sits 42 feet from Ranchard Extended road at 5,570 feet elevation in one of California's most arid regions. The landscape receives just 8.2 inches of annual precipitation, with nearly 29 inches of snow accumulating seasonally in this rain-shadow desert surrounded by sagebrush and sparse vegetation.

Roadside location provides easy access via Ranchard Extended. The spring's modest temperature makes it least appealing during warmer months, better suited for winter visits when the temperature differential becomes more noticeable. Tuff Campground lies 39 kilometers away for those seeking developed camping.

History of Bertrand Ranch Springs

This thermal feature demonstrates marginal geothermal activity where the temperature rise above ambient (16 degrees) reflects limited subsurface heat. Despite its modest temperature, the spring indicates the broader geothermal framework underlying the Basin-and-Range province throughout eastern California.

Monthly Climate
34°
Jan
35°
Feb
42°
Mar
51°
Apr
58°
May
71°
Jun
78°
Jul
77°
Aug
69°
Sep
57°
Oct
45°
Nov
34°
Dec
Annual Precip: 8.2 in Annual Snow: 28.7 in
Best Time to Visit
December Air 34°F · Water 70°F · +37° contrast
January Air 34°F · Water 70°F · +36° contrast
February Air 35°F · Water 70°F · +35° contrast
December offers 45°F more contrast than July
Current Conditions
50°F
NE 25.2 mph 44% Good soaking weather
Thursday 80° Low 43° Sunny 3% precip
Friday 83° Low 45° Sunny
Saturday 83° Low 46° Sunny
Sunday 87° Low 49° Sunny
Monday 88° Low 51° Sunny
Where to Stay

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Nearby Camping
Tuff Campground 24.5 mi away

Overview Tuff Campground is situated along Rock Creek in the scenic Sierra Nevada Mountains of California. It is convenient to Tom's Place and U.S. Highway 395. At an elevation of 7,000 ft., it is lower than many of the region's campgrounds and thus frequently one of the first campgrounds to open in the spring. Popular activities include hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing and viewing the area's volcanic rock formations. Opening and closing dates for the season are dependent on weather. The c...

Reservable Yes
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Mile-High Advisory 5,570 ft

Bertrand Ranch Springs sits at 5,570 feet above sea level, way above the mile-high mark. You may not feel the altitude strongly, but hot water still dehydrates you faster at elevation. UV is about 22% stronger than at sea level, so bring sunscreen and drink more water than you normally would.

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Temperature
70°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 70°F (21°C)
Avg Air Temp 54°F
Above Ambient +16°F
Mild soaking conditions May
Access
Road Access Roadside
Nearest Road Ranchard Extended
Distance to Road 139 ft
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Bertrand Ranch Springs?
Bertrand Ranch Springs has a water temperature of 70°F (21°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Bertrand Ranch Springs located?
Bertrand Ranch Springs is located in Inyo County, California at 5,570 feet elevation, near Dixon Lane-Meadow Creek. Coordinates: 37.8880°N, 118.4870°W.
How do I get to Bertrand Ranch Springs?
Bertrand Ranch Springs has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being Ranchard Extended (139 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Bertrand Ranch Springs?
Yes, Tuff Campground is located nearby (24.5 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Bertrand Ranch Springs?
Bertrand Ranch Springs is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Bertrand Ranch Springs crowded?
Bertrand Ranch Springs is accessible from a paved road, making it easy to reach. Weekends and holidays may be busier — consider visiting on a weekday for a quieter experience.
What should I bring to Bertrand Ranch Springs?
Essentials for Bertrand Ranch Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.