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.
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.
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.
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...
Buckeye Hot Spring sits at 6,963 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 28% stronger than at sea level, so bring sunscreen and drink more water than you normally would.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Buckeye Hot Spring is road-accessible, so you can bring more gear. The water runs hot, so extra hydration is key. Cold air temperatures make a changing robe or warm layers essential.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Springs Near Buckeye Hot Spring
More Springs Around 140°F
Hike 6 waterfalls near Buckeye Hot Spring
Looking for more outdoor adventures? Explore waterfall hikes near Buckeye Hot Spring, California.