3 MONTHS FREEPlan your California trip with offline maps, RV Trip Planner, and the Free Camping Map.Try PRO
Try PRO free for 3 months

Rock Tub Hot Springs

Hot springs access is the main draw at Rock Tub Hot Springs, a free dispersed site on BLM land in Inyo National Forest, but conditions on the ground matter. Recent visitors have found cattle using the springs, with the fill pipe trampled and cow waste throughout the area. Cell service is available. In winter, snow can block the access road, requiring a walk-in from the roadside. Campers exploring camping spots near Mammoth Lakes should verify current spring conditions before making the trip.

Suggest an Edit

RV Road Trip Guides

Map & DirectionsRock Tub Hot Springs is located in California near Inyo National Forest

Detail location of campground
Dispersed Camping

Coordinates

37.64758973 N
118.8083535 W

Open in Google Maps

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 3 users
    Last on 10/30/26
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 10/27/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 15 users
    Last on 10/30/26

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 3 users
    Last on 10/30/26
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 10/27/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 15 users
    Last on 10/30/26

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Phone Service
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Big Rig Friendly

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 Rock Tub Hot Springs needs a permit.

Drive Time


2026 Explorer Giveaway

Review campgrounds, win gear.

Enter to Win

Reviews3 Camper Reviews - Rock Tub Hot Springs

Add Review

5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

0%
34%
33%
0%
33%

2.5

out of 5

3 Reviews

Reviewed Sep. 19, 2026

Lovely hot tub

The Rock is a small hot tub, and not as hot as some of the others. It has shade much the day because of the way it’s situated on a sort of hill.

Any damage mentioned in the 2025 reviews has been repaired.

There are two camping areas besides the main parking area. One is past the spring and partially flooded with the drain off. The other is a little pull out on the way down to the spring. Both are lovely as long as you don’t expect any privacy in the space.

There is quite a bit of traffic, tho most people seem to leave without even getting in the tub.

I’m confused about the cover photo on this listing, because this location is nowhere near pavement.

Siteboth.
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Rock Tub Hot Springs by Jules D., September 19, 2026
  • Review photo of Rock Tub Hot Springs by Jules D., September 19, 2026
  • Review photo of Rock Tub Hot Springs by Jules D., September 19, 2026
  • (18) View All
Reviewed Aug. 27, 2025

Cattle

Cattle have been in the springs, fresh cow pies all over. They have trampled the pipe that fills the rock tub. Don’t camp here expecting a hot springs.

Month of VisitAugust
Reviewed Feb. 19, 2025

Worth the little walk

If there’s snow you’ll have to park on the road and walk in. Not sure grew it us when the road’s clear

Siten/a
Month of VisitFebruary
  • Review photo of Rock Tub Hot Springs by Dalton K., February 19, 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Rock Tub Hot Springs located and how do I find the coordinates?

Rock Tub Hot Springs is located in Inyo County, California. While the exact coordinates aren't specified, you can find this natural hot spring by following the designated access road. Be aware that during snowy conditions, you'll need to park on the main road and walk in to reach the springs. For precise coordinates and detailed directions, it's recommended to check with the local BLM office or Inyo National Forest service center before your trip.

What are visitors saying in reviews about Rock Tub Hot Springs?

Visitors to Rock Tub Hot Springs report mixed experiences. The site has accessibility challenges during winter, requiring parking on the main road and walking in when snow is present. A significant concern is the presence of cattle in the area, which has resulted in animal waste around the springs. The pipe system that fills the rock tub has been damaged, affecting water flow. Some visitors have been disappointed when arriving to find the hot springs not functioning as expected. The overall experience currently falls short of expectations for those specifically seeking a hot springs experience.

How does Rock Tub Hot Springs compare to other hot springs in Inyo County?

Rock Tub Hot Springs is a more primitive and rustic option compared to other hot springs in Inyo County. Its defining feature is a natural rock tub that receives water through a pipe system. Unlike more developed springs in the area that might offer amenities and facilities, Rock Tub provides a more natural experience. Currently, the infrastructure is experiencing maintenance issues with the pipe that fills the tub being damaged. The area also experiences cattle presence, which affects the cleanliness and condition of the springs, making it less reliable than more maintained hot springs in the county.

Are there photos available of Rock Tub Hot Springs to preview before visiting?

Photos of Rock Tub Hot Springs may be available through official sources like the BLM website or Inyo County tourism resources. While there isn't a dedicated photo gallery mentioned for this specific location, visitors planning a trip should check social media platforms, hiking websites, and official public land management sites for recent images. Consider contacting the local ranger station or visitor center for current visual information about the springs' condition, especially given the reported maintenance issues with the water pipe system and environmental factors affecting the site.