Morton Warm Springs is set in the scenic Sonoma Valley of California, a region also featured in our statewide guide to California Hot Springs. Once used by the indigenous Pomo people and later became a popular stop for ranchers and travelers. Today, the site is a family-friendly retreat with outdoor pools filled with thermal spring water ranging between 90–95 °F (32–35 °C), shaded picnic areas, and a relaxing connection to nature. Morton Warm Springs is not a luxury resort but rather a welcoming and down-to-earth place, where people come to enjoy the water and the peaceful surroundings of the valley.
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What Should You Know Before Going to Morton Warm Springs
Morton Warm Springs operates as a seasonal recreation area. Visitors can enjoy outdoor pools fed by hot mineral springs, large grassy lawns, picnic areas, and recreational spaces for games and gatherings. The atmosphere is laid-back and family-friendly, making it a great destination for a full day outdoors. Reservations are not mandatory but highly recommended, especially on weekends and holidays when the pools can reach full capacity. Alcohol is allowed in moderation, but it is important to note that pets are not permitted inside the facility.
How to Get to Morton Warm Springs
Morton Warm Springs is located in Sonoma Valley, California, just 7 minutes from the town of Glen Ellen. The nearest major city is Santa Rosa, about a 23-minute drive away. From San Francisco, the trip takes an hour and and 26 minutes by car. The facility sits right along Arnold Drive, the main road through the valley, making it easy to reach by car. There is no public transportation to the site, so visitors will need their own vehicle. Several small parking lots are available for Morton Warm Springs guests, but they can fill up quickly on busy days, so arriving early is recommended.
Best Time to Visit Morton Warm Springs
Morton Warm Springs is open only seasonally from spring through fall, so it is not accessible during the winter months. The busiest time is during the summer, when warm, sunny days make it perfect for swimming and outdoor activities. For a quieter experience, May, September, and October are highly recommended, as the weather remains pleasant and the pools are less crowded. With water temperatures around 90–95 °F (32–35 °C), soaking is enjoyable even on cooler spring or autumn days, making these shoulder seasons especially rewarding.
Opening Hours and Entry Costs at Morton Warm Springs
Morton Warm Springs will open on May 3, 2025, and remain in operation through September 28, 2025. During May and September, the site is open only on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. In the main season of June, July, and August, the springs welcome guests Tuesday through Sunday. Pool hours are 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the grounds closing at 6:00 PM. A special Adult Swim session is held every day in the deep pool from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, during which all guests under 17 are welcome to enjoy the Family Pool or other parts of the grounds.
Day passes are available at three levels, though all options provide the same access and benefits for a full day. The standard Day Visit is $23, which fully covers the site’s operational costs and is the most common choice among visitors. The Replenish Day Visit is $30 and directly supports the community by making subsidized entries possible for those in need. Every Replenish ticket purchased provides two “below cost” visits to families experiencing substantial financial hardship. The Below Cost Day Visit is available at $18 on Tuesday through Friday and $20 on weekends and holidays, but it is strictly reserved for individuals and families facing significant financial hardship. Availability is limited and depends on the number of Replenish contributions. Children aged 2 and under are admitted free of charge, though a swim diaper is required for infants.
For more information, please check the official website.
Where to Stay Nearby Morton Warm Springs
There is no lodging directly at Morton Warm Springs, as the site is open for day use only. The closest option is Glen Ellen, just a 7 minutes away, a charming small town surrounded by vineyards and known for its restaurants and relaxed atmosphere. Staying here means you can easily combine soaking in the springs with wine tasting and exploring the countryside.
Another excellent choice is Sonoma, only about a 22-minute drive. As the historic hub of the valley, it is famous for its lively plaza filled with cafés, museums, and tasting rooms. Sonoma is perfect if you want to pair hot spring relaxation with a more vibrant small-town vibe.
For more services and convenience, head to Santa Rosa, the largest city in the area, just 23 minutes from Morton Warm Springs. It offers hotels of every category, shopping centers, and an airport, making it the most practical choice for visitors who want both comfort and easy accessibility.
Recommended stays nearby Morton Warm Springs
Olea Hotel – Glen Ellen
A stylish boutique hotel nestled among vineyards. Guests enjoy modern rooms with views, a serene pool surrounded by greenery, and a highly praised breakfast included. Its quiet hillside setting makes it a perfect complement to a peaceful day at Morton Warm Springs.
Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa – Sonoma
A luxurious spa resort featuring mineral pools, full-service wellness, and fine dining. Guests highlight the spacious rooms, the elegant ambiance, and the outstanding facilities. It is ideal for those who want to combine soaking at the springs with upscale comfort.
You can explore more accommodations and book directly through the interactive map below:
What to Do Nearby Morton Warm Springs
Located in the heart of Sonoma Valley, Morton Warm Springs is surrounded by countless opportunities for exploration. Just minutes away are vineyards and tasting rooms, where you can experience local wines in the very landscapes where they are made. For those who prefer the outdoors, there are scenic hiking trails nearby, including those in Jack London State Historic Park, which blends beautiful nature with the history of the famous writer.
The town of Sonoma is also close, offering a historic plaza, museums, and a welcoming small-town atmosphere. If you enjoy a mix of art and nature, the di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art is a must-see, combining contemporary works with a picturesque setting.
For those looking to pair a visit to Morton Warm Springs with an authentic Sonoma Valley experience, a guided winery tour with a picnic lunch is a perfect choice. The day includes visits to several local wineries, where you’ll taste selected wines and learn more about the history and craft of winemaking in this world-famous region. A scenic picnic among the vineyards adds a memorable touch to the experience. This tour is ideal for anyone who wants more than just soaking in the springs – it’s a full immersion into the beauty and flavor of wine country.
Other Hot Springs Nearby Morton Warm Springs
Located in Sonoma County’s beautiful wine country, Morton Warm Springs is surrounded by several other soothing geothermal spots. To the north, Orr Hot Springs near Ukiah offers serene forest pools and a tranquil, clothing-optional retreat atmosphere. A bit farther northeast, Wilbur Hot Springs provides a secluded wellness sanctuary focused on relaxation and nature. For a more classic spa experience, Calistoga Hot Springs and Indian Springs Calistoga invite visitors to enjoy mineral pools and mud baths amid the vineyards of Napa Valley.