The Tub

Also known as: Crab Cooker Hot Springs
Mono County, California · Near Mammoth Lakes
37.6640°N, 118.8020°W · 6,975 ft
167°F 6,975 ft Open Short Walk CITY Camping nearby (6.8 mi)
Very Hot Source — Use Extreme Caution

At 167°F, the source water at The Tub is hot enough to cause burns. Some hot springs this hot have cooler side pools or downstream areas suitable for soaking — always test the water temperature before entering.

The Tub delivers 167°F water in Mono County near Mammoth Lakes, with minimal discharge (0.01 cfs) creating an intimate, accessible hot spring experience at high elevation.

Location
30 miles from Mammoth Lakes, CA

Perched at 6,975 feet elevation on city-owned land managed by the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, the spring emerges 245 meters from the nearest road through alpine terrain with heavy snow (83.6 inches annually) and cool summers.

Access requires a short walk from the nearest road. Crowley Lake Campground (11 km away) offers 47 RV/tent sites with potable water and fishing access, though the closest town amenities are in Mammoth Lakes (10 miles north).

History of The Tub

Also known as Crab Cooker Hot Springs, this feature represents localized geothermal activity with near-neutral pH (7.3) and mixed mineral content including iron, distinct from the alkaline geysers of lower elevation basins.

Monthly Climate
30°
Jan
29°
Feb
34°
Mar
41°
Apr
48°
May
61°
Jun
68°
Jul
67°
Aug
61°
Sep
50°
Oct
39°
Nov
29°
Dec
Annual Precip: 16.2 in Annual Snow: 83.6 in
Best Time to Visit
February Air 29°F · Water 167°F · +138° contrast
December Air 29°F · Water 167°F · +138° contrast
January Air 30°F · Water 167°F · +137° contrast
February offers 39°F more contrast than July
Current Conditions
39°F
Clear W 41.1 mph 60% Good soaking weather
Thursday 75° Low 36° Sunny 3% precip
Spring is +92° warmer
Friday 77° Low 37° Sunny
Spring is +90° warmer
Saturday 79° Low 38° Sunny
Spring is +88° warmer
Sunday 83° Low 41° Sunny
Spring is +84° warmer
Monday 83° Low 43° Sunny
Spring is +84° warmer
Water Chemistry Sampled 1973-07-28

The water at The Tub is slightly alkaline (pH 7.3). It is notably rich in sodium (supports circulation and skin hydration) and chloride (natural antiseptic with skin health benefits).

pH 7.3 Slightly Alkaline
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
Calcium 21 mg/L
May support bone density and joint health
Magnesium 1 mg/L
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Sodium 310 mg/L
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Sulfate 70 mg/L
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Chloride 150 mg/L
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
Iron 30 µg/L
Iron-rich springs may support circulation
Where to Stay

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Nearby Camping
Crowley Lake Campground 6.8 mi away

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...

Reservable Yes
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Mile-High Advisory 6,975 ft

The Tub sits at 6,975 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.

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Temperature
167°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 167°F (75°C)
Avg Air Temp 47°F
Above Ambient +121°F
Great soaking conditions May
Access
Open
Road Access Short Walk
Distance to Road 0.2 mi
Bath Type Hot spring
Land
Ownership Local
Agency CITY
Designation LOTH
Unit Los Angeles Department of Water and Power
Manager CITY
Protection 4 - No known protection
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at The Tub?
The Tub has a water temperature of 167°F (75°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is The Tub located?
The Tub is located in Mono County, California at 6,975 feet elevation, near Mammoth Lakes. Coordinates: 37.6640°N, 118.8020°W.
How do I get to The Tub?
The Tub has Short Walk road access (0.2 mi from the road).
Is The Tub free to visit?
The Tub has Open access. It is managed by CITY.
Can I camp near The Tub?
Yes, Crowley Lake Campground is located nearby (6.8 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at The Tub?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride, Iron. The pH is 7.3 (slightly alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at The Tub?
The water at The Tub reaches 167°F, which can cause severe burns. Do not enter the source pool directly — look for cooled side pools or downstream areas where the water has cooled to a safe temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is The Tub crowded?
The Tub sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to The Tub?
Essentials for The Tub: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in. The water is over 110°F — test the temperature before entering and watch for scalding near the source.