Saratoga Spring

San Bernardino County, California · Near Fort Irwin
35.6820°N, 116.4220°W · 197 ft
82°F 197 ft Open Short Walk National Park Service

Saratoga Spring emerges at 82°F in the extreme desert environment of Death Valley National Park. This rare source of water and warmth supports life in one of North America's harshest landscapes.

Location

The spring sits at just 197 feet elevation in the flat, barren desert floor. Death Valley's characteristic salt-encrusted ground, sparse vegetation, and the distant mountain ranges create an austere beauty. The small thermal pool provides a striking contrast to the surrounding desiccated terrain.

Access via a short walk from Saratoga Spring Road. Visit October through April to avoid extreme summer heat exceeding 120°F. The spring is located within Death Valley National Park's permanently protected natural state zone; follow all NPS regulations.

History of Saratoga Spring

Saratoga Spring's geothermal water emerges from deep crustal circulation in this tectonically active region. The spring has supported desert travel and wildlife for millennia, though its modest 5.5-degree thermal anomaly is minor compared to other California springs.

Monthly Climate
56°
Jan
61°
Feb
68°
Mar
76°
Apr
82°
May
94°
Jun
99°
Jul
98°
Aug
90°
Sep
77°
Oct
64°
Nov
53°
Dec
Annual Precip: 3.4 in Annual Snow: 0.1 in
Best Time to Visit
December Air 53°F · Water 82°F · +29° contrast
January Air 56°F · Water 82°F · +26° contrast
February Air 61°F · Water 82°F · +22° contrast
December offers 46°F more contrast than July
Current Conditions
63°F
N 20.7 mph 29% Good soaking weather
Thursday 100° Low 65° Sunny
Friday 104° Low 68° Sunny
Saturday 104° Low 69° Sunny
Sunday 107° Low 71° Sunny
Monday 109° Low 72° Sunny
Water Chemistry Sampled 1967-04-26

The water at Saratoga Spring contains 2925 mg/L total dissolved solids. It is notably rich in total dissolved solids (higher mineral concentration for therapeutic soaking).

Higher mineral concentration for therapeutic soaking
Where to Stay

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Temperature
82°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 82°F (28°C)
Avg Air Temp 77°F
Above Ambient +6°F
Mild soaking conditions May
Access
Open
Road Access Short Walk
Nearest Road Saratoga Spring Road
Distance to Road 523 ft
Land
Ownership Federal
Agency National Park Service
Designation National Park
Unit Death Valley National Park
Manager National Park Service
Protection 1 - Permanent protection, natural state
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Saratoga Spring?
Saratoga Spring has a water temperature of 82°F (28°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Saratoga Spring located?
Saratoga Spring is located in San Bernardino County, California at 197 feet elevation, near Fort Irwin. Coordinates: 35.6820°N, 116.4220°W.
How do I get to Saratoga Spring?
Saratoga Spring has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Saratoga Spring Road (523 ft from the road).
Is Saratoga Spring free to visit?
Saratoga Spring has Open access. It is managed by National Park Service.
What minerals are in the water at Saratoga Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of Total Dissolved Solids. Total dissolved solids measure 2,925 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at Saratoga Spring?
Saratoga Spring is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Saratoga Spring crowded?
Saratoga Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Saratoga Spring?
Essentials for Saratoga Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.
Sources: USGS NWIS