Sespe Hot Springs are among the most remote natural hot springs in California. Located deep within the Los Padres National Forest near Ojai, they are famous for being some of the hottest springs in the United States, with water reaching up to 160 °F (70 °C) at the source. Visitors can enjoy natural soaking pools and cascades where the water cools to more comfortable bathing temperatures. The springs are a favorite among experienced hikers seeking wilderness, solitude, and disconnection from civilization. There is no road access – the only way to reach Sespe is via long hiking trails, making it a true backcountry adventure.
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What Should you Know before Going to Sespe Hot Springs
Sespe Hot Springs are among the hottest springs in the U.S. – at the source the water is about 160 °F (70 °C), far too hot for soaking. As it flows into natural rock pools downstream, it cools to around 100–113 °F (38–45 °C), offering comfortable soaking temperatures depending on how hot you prefer.
Reaching the springs is challenging. The shortest access is via the Sespe River Trail, more than 15 miles (25 km) one way, making it a strenuous full-day hike or a multi-day backpacking trip with camping. This makes the springs best suited for experienced hikers and backpackers.
The springs are located within the Los Padres National Forest, and visitors need to have an Adventure Pass, which can be purchased online or from local vendors. There is no entrance fee for the springs themselves and no reservations required, but given the long trek and limited camping spots, planning ahead is essential.
Leave No Trace rules strictly apply – pack out all trash, no glass, no alcohol. Camping is allowed near the springs, but you must bring all supplies and be fully prepared for wilderness conditions with no facilities.
How to Get to Sespe Hot Springs
Sespe Hot Springs are located deep in the Los Padres National Forest, northeast of Ojai, California. The springs are only accessible on foot – most visitors take the Sespe River Trail, which begins at Rose Valley Campground. This route is more than 15 miles (25 km) one way, following Sespe Creek and requiring multiple river crossings, making it a long and strenuous hike.
An alternative is the Johnson Ridge Trail, a shorter but steeper option that is also physically demanding and requires solid preparation. Both routes pass through rugged wilderness, so hikers must bring plenty of water, food, and camping gear.
Trailheads are accessible by car from Ojai.
The nearest larger city is Ventura, about a 22-minute drive, and the region is also featured in our guide to hot springs near Santa Barbara, while from Los Angeles it takes 1 hour and 26 minutes to reach the starting point.
Best Time to Visit in Sespe Hot Springs
Sespe Hot Springs are accessible year-round, but the best time to visit is between October and April, when temperatures are milder. Daytime highs average around 60–77 °F (15–25 °C), with cooler evenings that make soaking in the hot springs especially refreshing.
In summer, however, temperatures in Los Padres National Forest can climb above 100 °F (38 °C), making the long hike to the springs very challenging and potentially dangerous. The combination of extreme heat, lack of shade, and the need to carry supplies increases the risk of heat exhaustion. If visiting during the warmer months, it’s strongly advised to start your hike early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
Thanks to their remote location and long access hike, Sespe Hot Springs are rarely crowded, but spring and fall weekends tend to be more popular. For the most solitude, aim for weekdays.
Opening Hours and Entry Costs in Sespe Hot Springs
Sespe Hot Springs do not have regular opening hours, as they are located in the wilderness of Los Padres National Forest and are only accessible on foot. In practice, they are open 24 hours a day, though for safety it’s best to arrive and leave during daylight hours due to the long and rugged trails.
Access to the springs themselves is free, but visitors must purchase an Adventure Pass for entry and parking in the national forest area. The pass can be bought online or from local vendors. No reservations are required, but due to the length of the hike and limited camping opportunities, careful trip planning is essential.
Where to Stay Nearby Sespe Hot Springs
Because Sespe Hot Springs lie in the backcountry, there is no lodging directly at the springs. Most visitors choose to camp. The closest option is Rose Valley Campground, which serves as the trailhead for the Sespe River Trail. It’s a simple campground with basic tent sites and direct access to the hiking routes. Along the trail, backcountry camping is also possible, but you’ll need to carry all your supplies and strictly follow Leave No Trace principles.
For more comfort, the nearest town with hotels is Ojai. Ojai is a charming town known for its art galleries, cafés, and wellness retreats, often described as a hidden gem of California. Another option is Ventura which offers a wider range of hotels, restaurants, and entertainment, making it a great base if you want to combine the springs with a seaside stay.
Recommended Stays Nearby Sespe Hot Springs
Ojai Valley Inn – Ojai
A luxury resort nestled in the hills above Ojai, featuring a world-class spa, golf course, and multiple restaurants. Its serene setting makes it a perfect oasis to unwind after the challenging journey to the springs.
Amanzi Hotel – Ventura
A modern hotel in the heart of Ventura, offering spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, and complimentary breakfast. Its location near the beach and harbor makes Ventura an excellent base for combining a Sespe Hot Springs adventure with a coastal getaway.
For more options, you can also explore the interactive map below:
What to Do Nearby Sespe Hot Springs
A trip to Sespe Hot Springs is already an adventure, but the surrounding area offers plenty more to explore. Heading into Ojai, you’ll find a town filled with art galleries, cafés, and boutique shops, retaining the charm of a small Californian retreat. Ojai is also known for its wellness centers and spiritual vibe, making it a perfect place to unwind after a long hike.
Another option is Ventura, a coastal city with a lovely beach, a harbor, and a lively dining scene. It’s an excellent spot to combine your hot springs adventure with the ocean – whether by strolling along the Ventura Pier or taking a boat trip to Channel Islands National Park.
Nature lovers will also appreciate the Los Padres National Forest itself. Beyond the trail to the springs, it offers miles of hiking paths, wildlife viewing opportunities, and stunning vistas of California’s mountains and canyons.
To enrich your coastal stay, you can also join a wine tour through Solvang and Ventura. This full-day trip includes private transportation, wine tastings at several local wineries, and stops in the charming town of Solvang, famous for its Danish-style architecture and cozy cafés. It’s a perfect way to combine a coastal getaway with a culinary experience and a taste of California’s wine country.
Other Springs Nearby in Sespe Hot Springs
Sespe Hot Springs lies deep in Los Padres National Forest, and a few other springs from the same list can be reached in the wider region. Big Caliente Hot Springs is the closest, with larger pools set in a scenic canyon. A short distance away, Little Caliente Hot Springs offers smaller, quieter pools for those who prefer solitude. Further west near the coast, Gaviota State Park Hot Springs gives you a different experience with sulfurous waters close to the ocean.