Rock Tub Hot Springs, often called simply The Tub, is one of the most accessible and scenic hot springs in the Eastern Sierra, just outside of Mammoth Lakes, California. It’s one of dozens of geothermal soaking spots featured in our guide to California hot springs.
This small concrete tub is fed by natural geothermal waters flowing through pipes from nearby springs, maintaining a pleasant soaking temperature. Surrounded by wide-open meadows with stunning views of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Rock Tub has become a favorite stop for travelers seeking a free and natural soak.
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What Should You Know Before Going Rock Tub Hot Springs
Rock Tub Hot Springs is a small, free, and public hot spring that offers one of the simplest yet most scenic soaking experiences in the Eastern Sierra. The water flows in from nearby geothermal sources at about 110 °F (43 °C) and cools slightly in the tub, usually staying between 100–105 °F (38–41 °C) – perfect for a comfortable soak.
The tub itself is man-made concrete but blends into the natural setting, giving you the feeling of soaking right in the middle of nature. With 360-degree views of the Sierra Nevada mountains, sunsets and sunrises here are especially magical.
Facilities are nonexistent – there are no bathrooms, trash bins, or changing areas, so you must pack out everything and follow Leave No Trace principles. Glass containers and loud music are discouraged to keep the spot safe and peaceful.
No reservations or permits are required – Rock Tub is completely free and open to everyone. However, because of its easy access, it can sometimes get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays.
How to Get to Rock Tub Hot Springs
Rock Tub Hot Springs is located in the Long Valley Caldera near Mammoth Lakes, California, just off Benton Crossing Road – often nicknamed “Green Church Road” because of the small green church at the highway turnoff. From Mammoth Lakes, it’s only about a 15-minute drive, which makes it the most common base for visitors.
If you’re coming from further away, the nearest larger town is Bishop, about 41 minutes south on Highway 395, offering more hotels, restaurants, and services. From Los Angeles, the drive takes about 5 hours, while from Reno, Nevada, it’s about 3 hours and 8 minutes.
To reach the tub, turn onto Benton Crossing Road from Highway 395 and follow the dirt road turnoffs. The dirt roads are generally manageable for standard vehicles in dry conditions, but they can become muddy or rutted after rain or snow. A short walk from the parking area leads you directly to the tub, which sits in the middle of open meadows with panoramic mountain views.
Best Time to Visit Rock Tub Hot Springs
Rock Tub Hot Springs can be visited year-round, but the experience changes with the seasons. The best times are generally spring and fall, when daytime temperatures are mild and the Sierra Nevada scenery is at its most colorful.
In summer, daytime highs in the valley often reach over 90 °F (32 °C), making soaking less pleasant in the heat of the day. Early mornings and evenings are the most comfortable times to enjoy the tub during warmer months.
In winter, the springs become especially magical – soaking in hot water while surrounded by snowy peaks is unforgettable. However, the dirt roads can become icy, muddy, or even impassable after heavy snow, so always check local conditions before heading out.
Because Rock Tub is small and easy to access, it can get crowded on weekends and holidays. For a quieter experience, visit on weekdays or early in the morning.
Opening Hours and Entry Costs in Rock Tub Hot Springs
Rock Tub Hot Springs are located on public land and have no official opening hours – in practice, the tub is accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Many visitors enjoy coming early in the morning for sunrise views or in the evening for stargazing under the clear Sierra Nevada skies.
Access is completely free, and there are no permits or reservations required. Parking near the tub is also free, though space is limited. Because the spring is small and popular, it’s best to avoid peak times to ensure a more peaceful experience.
Where to Stay Nearby Rock Tub Hot Springs
There is no lodging directly at Rock Tub Hot Springs, as the tub is located on open public land. Most visitors either camp nearby or stay in the closest towns. Camping is not allowed right at the hot spring, but dispersed camping is possible on surrounding BLM lands in the Long Valley Caldera.
For more comfort, the nearest base is Mammoth Lakes, just a 15-minute drive away. This alpine town is known for its ski resort, mountain lakes, and hiking trails, and offers a wide variety of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals.
Another good option is Bishop, about 39 minutes south along Highway 395. Bishop has a friendly small-town vibe, with a range of motels, inns, local restaurants, and is popular with climbers and outdoor enthusiasts exploring the Eastern Sierra.
Recommended Stays Nearby Rock Tub Hot Springs
The Village Lodge – Mammoth Lakes
A highly rated mountain lodge right in Mammoth Lakes, offering condo-style suites with full kitchens, fireplaces, and balconies. Guests enjoy direct gondola access, plus a heated outdoor pool and hot tubs – perfect for relaxing after a day of soaking and exploring the Sierra.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Bishop
A modern and comfortable hotel in downtown Bishop with spacious rooms, complimentary breakfast, and an indoor pool. Its central location makes it a convenient base for exploring the Eastern Sierra and visiting Rock Tub Hot Springs.
For more options, explore the interactive map below:
What to Do Nearby Rock Tub Hot Springs
Just 15 minutes away, Mammoth Lakes is a year-round outdoor paradise. In summer, you can hike the trails of the Mammoth Lakes Basin, rent a kayak or paddleboard on Lake Mary, or take the scenic gondola ride up Mammoth Mountain for panoramic views. In winter, the same mountain becomes one of California’s premier ski resorts.
Nearby lies the Devils Postpile National Monument, famous for its striking basalt columns, and the hike to Rainbow Falls, where a 101-foot waterfall cascades into the San Joaquin River. For something more relaxing, visit Convict Lake, known for its turquoise waters framed by dramatic peaks – a favorite spot for photographers and anglers alike.
To the south, the town of Bishop offers a small-town charm with local restaurants, bakeries, and craft breweries. Outdoor enthusiasts flock here for climbing at the Buttermilk Boulders and scenic drives into the Sierra.
If you’d like a bit of adventure, you can also join a Beginner Climbing Class in Mammoth Lakes, a guided experience that teaches the basics of outdoor rock climbing in a safe and scenic environment – a unique way to connect with the dramatic Sierra landscape.
Other springs nearby Rock Tub Hot Springs
If you’re looking to continue your hot springs adventure, there are several other soaking spots just minutes away from Rock Tub. One of the closest is Shepherd Hot Springs, a small stone pool known for its clear and comfortably warm water. Just beyond it lies Hilltop Hot Springs, set on a slight rise with panoramic views across Long Valley – a favorite for sunrise and sunset soaks. And only a short drive away you’ll find Crowley (Wild Willy’s) Hot Springs, larger natural pools spread out across the open meadows, offering one of the most iconic hot spring experiences in the Eastern Sierra.