Mono Hot Springs
Swimming hole in Bishop, California · Creek
Mono Hot Springs is a creek/hot springs swimming hole. It is near Bishop, California. Fee varies. Best season: May to October for favorable weather, accessible roads, and optimal.
Typical season: May to October for favorable weather, accessible roads, and optimal
About Mono Hot Springs
Mono Hot Springs sits in California along South Fork Of San Joaquin River. Swimmers come for a natural day on the water without resort amenities. It's rustic, it's wild, and it's exactly the kind of place that turns a road trip into a story worth telling. The drive alone signals that you're leaving ordinary life behind. Winding mountain roads. The kind that demand both hands on the wheel and genuine attention. Carry you up into the high Sierra, where the forest thickens and the world quiets. When you arrive, you're greeted by the sound of moving water and the faint mineral tang of geothermal activity hanging in the cool mountain air. The South Fork of the San Joaquin River cuts through the terrain in earnest, its water cold and clear, fed by snowmelt and shaped by ancient granite. Surrounding forest stretches in every direction, and the area is a genuine haven for wildlife and wildflower enthusiasts. Nearby hiking trails push deeper into the backcountry for those who want to earn their soak. Swim at your own risk at Mono Hot Springs. Check conditions after rain and respect any posted closures.
Key facts
Structured details for trip planning — verify access and fees with the land manager before you visit.
- Water type
- Creek/Hot Springs
- Water body
- South Fork of San Joaquin River
- Fee
- Fee varies
- Nearest town
- Bishop
- State
- California
- Coordinates
- 37.32600, -119.01800
- Best season
- May to October for favorable weather, accessible roads, and optimal .
- Access difficulty
- Moderate access; requires navigating winding mountain roads. Suitable for most visitors but may challenge inexperienced drivers.
- Restrooms
- Yes
- Lifeguard
- None — assume unguarded
- Camping
- Camping at the site in Mono National Forest campground (accepts reservations).
- Land manager
- U.S. Forest Service
- Activities
- Hot tubbing, Swimming, Wading
- Facilities
- Campground with reservations available; offers basic amenities including restrooms and picnic areas.
- Listing last updated
- May 12, 2026
The experience
- Best time to visitMay to October for favorable weather, accessible roads, and optimal .
- AccessModerate access; requires navigating winding mountain roads. Suitable for most visitors but may challenge inexperienced drivers.
- FacilitiesCampground with reservations available; offers basic amenities including restrooms and picnic areas.
- Camping nearbyCamping at the site in Mono National Forest campground (accepts reservations).
Highlights & features
- Geothermal hot springs
- South Fork San Joaquin River swimming
- Scenic Sierra National Forest views
- Wildlife and flora exploration
- Nearby hiking trails
- Contrast of hot springs and cool river waters
- Geothermal activity creating natural spa-like pools
- Tranquil setting with minimal crowds
How to get there
Mono Hot Springs lies in California near Fresno, Bishop. Use these driving notes as a starting point and confirm road conditions before you go. Mono Hot Springs is a scenic destination located in the Sierra National Forest, offering natural hot springs and beautiful surroundings. Below are clear, turn-by-turn driving directions to help you reach this location from Fresno, California.
Driving Directions from Fresno
Start in Fresno: Begin your journey by taking Route 168 (RT 168) east. Follow RT 168 for about 68 miles into the Sierra National Forest. Sharp Left Turn at Mile 32: At around 32 miles , you will encounter a sharp left turn. Be sure to stay on RT 168 at this point to continue toward your destination. Turn Right onto Big Creek Road: After traveling 68 miles on RT 168, turn right onto Big Creek Road . Continue on Big Creek Road for 4.7 miles Continue onto Kaiser Pass Road: After 4.7 miles on Big Creek Road, the road transitions into Kaiser Pass Road . Stay on Kaiser Pass Road and drive for about 12.0 miles
Turn Left Toward Mono Hot Springs
After 12 miles on Kaiser Pass Road, turn left to head toward the Mono National Forest Campground. Pass the Private Resort: As you approach Mono Hot Springs, you will pass a private resort. Continue past the resort to reach the Mono National Forest Campground , which is your destination.
Additional Details
Parking
Parking is available near the Mono National Forest Campground. Be sure to park in designated areas to avoid blocking roads or trails. Trailheads and Access: From the campground, follow signs or ask for directions to the hot springs. Trails leading to the hot springs are generally well-marked and easy to follow. Road Conditions: Kaiser Pass Road is narrow and winding in some sections, so drive cautiously and be prepared for mountain driving conditions. During winter or early spring, check road accessibility before traveling. Landmarks: Key landmarks along the route include the sharp left turn at mile 32 on RT 168 and the private resort near the campground. These will help confirm you are on the correct path. Have a safe visit to Mono Hot Springs, and take advantage of the natural beauty and relaxation this area has to offer! Bring water, sunscreen, and gear for a primitive swim day. Weekends and holidays can draw more visitors. Check local updates on access and water levels before you leave home.
Plan your visit
Mono Hot Springs works well as a day trip from Fresno or Bishop. Stock up in town, then head to the water with food, water, and sun protection. Pair the swim with a stop at Hot Creek (about 27 mi away) or browse more California creek spots in our directory. For the full list in California, see our state directory.
Access & fees
Access is via the Mono National Forest Campground. The hot springs are an unofficial, natural site. A fee may apply for campground use; check with the US Forest Service for current rates and regulations. The final approach involves narrow, winding mountain roads.
Frequently asked questions
Can you soak or swim at Mono Hot Springs?
Yes. Mono Hot Springs near Fresno and Bishop in CA is a hot-springs destination on South Fork of San Joaquin River. Confirm current access and temperatures before you go — conditions change.
How much does Mono Hot Springs cost?
Fees for this spot aren't confirmed. Rates and policies change — verify with the land manager before you drive.
How do you get to Mono Hot Springs?
Mono Hot Springs is in CA within day-trip range of Fresno and Bishop. Use a current map for the put-in or park entrance; cell service can be limited at remote spots.
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Map & location
Culture & history
Historically used by Native Americans for healing; later developed into a summer resort for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Conservation
Follow Leave No Trace principles to protect wildlife, preserve hot springs, and minimize impact on the forest ecosystem.
Sources & updates
Official land managers cited on this page
Always confirm current rules, closures, and fees on the agency site before visiting.
Reference sources
Spotted outdated access, fees, or safety info? Send a correction with the page URL — we review every submission.