Free dispersed camping along a dirt road network, Crab Cooker Hotsprings requires high clearance or 4WD access due to dips and rocks in the route. The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power manages this open camping area that draws visitors primarily for the natural hot spring and expansive mountain views.
Campers set up in various spots along the main road and side routes, with some pull-in areas accommodating both tents and vans. The landscape offers views of mountains on one side and rolling fields with Alkali Lake on the other, plus grazing cattle that occasionally wander through the camping area. Rachel W. notes "Views on one side are mountains. Views on the other are rolling fields / foothills with lots of cutie vocal Moo Moos and Alkali Lake!" No shade exists in this open terrain, and campers report issues with flies and red ants during warmer months.
The hot spring itself sits small and runs quite hot, accommodating about three people comfortably. Water flow varies seasonally, with winter months providing the strongest flow. Reviews indicate the spring occasionally needs repairs to maintain proper temperature and cleanliness. Several nearby alternatives include Shepherd Hot Springs and Crab Cooker Hot Springs within walking distance.
Weekend crowds increase significantly, while weekday visits offer more solitude. Wind exposure can be intense without natural windbreaks. Cell service varies by carrier, with some reporting no Verizon coverage. The area serves as a base for exploring other hot springs visible in the distance and provides access to camping spots around Mammoth Lakes for additional options.
Road conditions and spring functionality can change, so campers should prepare backup plans and bring adequate water supplies.
Description
Located near Mammoth Lakes, Crab Cooker Hot Springs is one of several hot water springs in the area that are suitable for soaking in. The pool consists of a manmade cement tub with water piped in from a mineral spring about 30 feet away. Though the water at the source is too hot to bathe in, or even to touch, the tub has been outfitted with a valve that allows for the control of hot water.
Crab cooker is located on land that is owned by the LA Department of Water and Power, which forbids camping. However, camping is permitted on nearby public land.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Dispersed CampingCrab Cooker Hotsprings - Dispersed Camping is located in California
Directions
The Crab Cooker hot springs are found off of Benton Crossing Road off of Hwy 395 (easy to find as the turnoff to Benton Crossing is marked by an iconic green church.) After turning onto Benton Crossing Road, pass the 3rd cattle gate, and then take a left on the next dirt road. At the end of this road you’ll find a parking area and then a .2 mile path to the hot spring. The dirt road to the hot spring is pretty rough and so a 4WD vehicle is definitely recommended, or in the least a car with high clearance.
Coordinates
37.66276034 N
118.80015327 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 16 usersLast on 3/30/26
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 15 usersLast on 3/30/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 24 usersLast on 3/30/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 16 usersLast on 3/30/26
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 15 usersLast on 3/30/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 24 usersLast on 3/30/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
- Group
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Crab Cooker Hotsprings - Dispersed Camping needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 5 hrs 9 min from Visalia, CA
- 5 hrs 17 min from Hanford, CA
- 5 hrs 32 min from Merced, CA
- 5 hrs 39 min from Fresno, CA






























