Sure you could go to Napa and dish out a bunch of dough to sit at a spa. But for those who like their relaxation outdoors under the stars, we recommend scrapping the ritzy mud bath and checking out some natural Northern California hot springs instead.
The planning and execution of such an adventure is relatively simple—it requires just a bit of gumption and the willingness to camp.
While there are more than 50 developed hot springs in California and hundreds of undeveloped or secret ones, here is a smattering of some of the best.
Mono Hot Springs(Courtesy of @lukeshometube)
Mono Hot Springs
Hot springs in the Sierra and Eastern Sierra are some of the most special places we've ever visited. You get an alpine setting, expansive views, lots of sparkling granite everywhere, and usually very few people. Mono Hot Springs is one of the more developed and established of the options in this part of the state. The pools are well maintained, and afford you some pretty amazing Sierra Nevada landscape to take in while you chill out. There are lots of good camping options in the area. //monohotsprings.com
Marin Tidal Hot Springs (aka Steep Ravine Hot Springs)
Just across the Golden Gate Bridge, on the stretch of coast between Steep Ravine Cabins (which you should also check out sometime) and Stinson Beach, there is a large hot spring that's only accessible during low tide. Tucked beneath a huge boulder, waves crash on the rocks around you as you soak in the ocean view. Depending on how well the springs form each year, they can accommodate around 25 people. Do your homework to check conditions before heading there. Camping is available at Steep Ravine and on Mt. Tam by reservation but this jaunt can easily be accomplished as a quick day trip from the city. // calihotsprings.com
Travertine Hot Springs
These all-natural baths are located near the city of Bridgeport, just a little bit north of Yosemite.The main trail of Travertine Hot Springs provides an abundance of pools, and if you're feeling adventurous, travel off the dirt path further and see what you can find. Admire the unique rock formations and popping colors as you soak in one of the many pools, which are slightly smaller and estimated to fit around eight people max. With dispersed camping nearby and parking readily accessible, this hot spring is a true sight for those that love to relax in nature. // ultimatehotspringsguide.com
Orr Hot Springs(Courtesy of @ultimatehotspringsguide)
Orr Hot Springs
We love Mendocino for a lot of reasons: its gorgeous rugged coastline, its under-recognized contribution to the state's true GDP, its knack for harnessing geo-thermal activity with that kind of hippy-bohemian flare we all have a soft spot for. If all that makes sense to you, then Orr Hot Springs are a solid (and slightly funny) option to check out. They are developed pools, frequented mostly by locals, and camping is available on site and in the vicinity. You can definitely get a massage here for dirt cheap while you soak. You might even be able to barter for it. (Know how to knit?) If you make the drive up here, pop out to the coast on the drive back. It's one of our favorites in the state. // orrhotsprings.orgSykes Hot Springs
This is one of the quintessential weekend backpacking trips to do if you live in San Francisco. The Sykes Hot Springs are about a ten mile hike into the coastal forest outside of Big Sur. You'll gain some elevation, yes. You will have to carry your camping stuff on your back, yes. But when you reach the springs, set up camp and wade in, you'll find yourself in a lush, forested, California Coastal Range setting, kicking it in some (typically) well-maintained stone-lined hot springs which is nothing short of awesome. Backcountry camping can be found near the pools. Check seasonal recommendations and trail conditions. // ventanawild.org
