Springs
These 72-degree springs emerge at 6,790 feet elevation on Bureau of Land Management land within Long Valley Caldera, one of North America's most significant volcanic features. Recent USGS monitoring documents water chemistry with slightly alkaline pH of 8.4 and 241 milligrams per liter of total dissolved solids.
The springs sit in high volcanic terrain near Mammoth Lakes where winters bring heavy snow (72.9 inches annually). The landscape features rugged volcanic rock formations and sparse alpine vegetation. Pools of clear, gently steaming water emerge in this cold environment where ambient air temperatures average just 47.5 degrees.
Access requires a short walk from the road over BLM public land. The Bishop Field Office manages the site. Heavy snow restricts comfortable visiting to late spring through early fall. Crowley Lake Campground lies 8.5 kilometers south, offering nearby facilities and fishing access.
Geologically, these springs represent hot water rising through fractured volcanic rock in Long Valley Caldera, a depression formed by catastrophic volcanic collapse around 760,000 years ago. The caldera remains geothermally active today, with numerous hot springs and fumaroles marking zones of crustal heat.
The water at Springs is slightly alkaline (pH 8.4) with 241 mg/L total dissolved solids.
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Overview Crowley Lake Campground offers 47 RV/tent sites, maximum recommended RV length is 30 feet. All sites include a fire pit, picnic table and a lantern holder. No hook-up. Potable water is available. Dump station fee is $10.00, no passes accepted. Closest amenities are 2 miles south in Crowley, or 10 miles north in Mammoth Lakes. Recreation Popular activities include lake and stream fishing, boating, windsurfing, horseback riding, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Facilities Crowley Lake...
Springs sits at 6,790 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 27% stronger than at sea level, so bring sunscreen and drink more water than you normally would.
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Springs is road-accessible, so you can bring more gear.
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Slightly Alkaline Springs (pH ~8.4)
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