Wild Willy's Hot Spring
Mammoth Lakes, California
| Address: | Mono County, CA, United States |
| GPS: |
37°39'32.6"N 118°46'15.3"W Maps | Directions |
| State: | California |
Camp and Hot Springs
Wild Willy's Hot Springs, also known as Crowley Hot Springs, is a spring located in Long Valley. Long Valley is home to one of the highest concentrations of geothermal surface water in California. Wild Willy's is surrounded by mountains in sagebrush plains, so you get to see a pretty view while you soak and relax in the natural hot springs.
There is a long wooden walkway that's about .2 miles long from where you park that leads you straight to the springs. The surrounding area is wide open with views of the Sierra Nevadas, making it quiet and peaceful if the springs aren't crowded, which they usually are.
There are a few pools here, the larger one attracting more people since it is deeper and has the capacity to accommodate larger groups. The smaller ones are a bit more shallow and are best for a couple people. The smaller pools are also usually hotter, making it feel more like a hot tub. The downside to these hot springs is that it attracts so many visitors because it is free and public.
The water temperature ranges from 95 - 105 degrees, depending on the day.
There are designated camping areas for those who prefer the overnight experience.
More Information
Wild Willy’s Hot Spring Near Mammoth Lakes - California Through My Lens
If you are looking to explore a few hot springs on your trip up Highway 395, then be sure to set aside some time for exploration near Mammoth Lakes. Off Benton Crossing Road, there are no less than six different hot springs (probably more I don’t even know about) that you can drive/walk to. This…
https://californiathroughmylens.com/wild-willys-hot-springs/
Be careful. Pay attention to posted signs and always test the waters before you get in. Some hot springs can get up to boiling temperatures. Be sure to drink plenty of water to combat the dehydrating effect of the spring.
Be respectful of other soakers and the hot spring. Don't hog the pool. Camp at least 200 yards away and keep fires in designated areas. Keep your pets out of the water and never pee in thermal feature. Glass bottles should never go near a hot spring.
- Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Travel & camp on durable surfaces
- Dispose of waste properly
- Leave what you find
- Minimize campfire impacts
- Respect wildlife
- Be considerate of other visitors
Directions
From Mammoth Lakes, California
- Head west (276 ft)
- Turn left toward CA-203 E/Main St (240 ft)
- Turn left onto CA-203 E/Main StContinue to follow CA-203 E(3.1 mi)
- Turn right to merge onto US-395 S (5.4 mi)
- Turn left onto Benton Crossing Rd (0.4 mi)
- Continue onto Minnow Creek (0.1 mi)
- Continue onto Benton Crossing Rd (2.6 mi)
- Turn right (1.2 mi)
Follow the wooden boardwalk off the highway.
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