Buckeye Hot Spring
Buckeye Hot Spring flows at 140°F from the eastern Sierra Nevada in Mono County at 6,963 feet elevation on US Forest Service land. Just 82 feet from Buckeye Road, this roadside spring emerges approximately 96°F above ambient temperature, creating one of the region's most accessible natural geothermal destinations.
The spring lies in the dramatic high-desert landscape of Mono County, where volcanic geology meets sagebrush-covered slopes descending toward Owen's Valley. Clear mountain air and expansive vistas characterize the setting—granite peaks frame the horizon while sparse vegetation typical of rain-shadow environments surrounds the thermal feature. The spring's thermal output produces clear water in a compact basin, visually striking against the austere landscape.
Located on Toiyabe National Forest with protection status allowing permanent preservation subject to extractive uses, Buckeye Hot Spring benefits from public access managed by the US Forest Service. The spring formed through geothermal activity along fault zones in the Sierra Nevada batholith, where regional heat flow concentrates along crustal weaknesses. Historical use by Native Americans and settlers established its reputation as a therapeutic destination.
Roadside parking and minimal walk access make this spring ideal for visitors with limited mobility or time. Early morning visits in summer offer solitude before afternoon crowds arrive. Spring snowmelt (typically clearing by June) creates seasonal access challenges, while fall visits provide ideal temperature contrasts between 140°F water and cool desert air.
Is Buckeye Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Observing powerful hot springs
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
- Casual soaking
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Overview Honeymoon Flat Campground is located just 8 miles from Bridgeport, California, next to Robinson Creek at an elevation of 7,000 feet. The Twin Lakes area is about 2 miles away, where visitors enjoy boating, fishing, hiking and horseback riding.Recreation Robinson Creek offers good rainbow trout fishing and can be easily accessed from both loops. Numerous hiking trails are in the vicinity, including the popular Robinson Creek Trail.Facilities The campground contains single and double-f...