Whitmore Hot Springs
There has always been confusion when people talk about Whitmore Hot Springs. Most of the time you are probably looking for Rock Tub Hot Spring, but if you put Whitmore into your phone, it will actually take you to a swimming pool. So lets solve this question once and for all. What and where is Whitmore Hot Springs?
The answer is it doesn’t exist. The name is actually the geothermal activity in the Mammoth Lakes which feeds the water to various pools around the area. You can think of it as the source of the natural mineral waters coming up from the earth rather than a place to go. The spring then feeds all the individual tubs such as the Rock Tub which is usually what most are looking for. In total there are five hot springs in Mammoth County that are fed by Whitmore:
- The Rock Tub Hot Spring (which we will talk about below)
- Wild Willy’s Hot Spring
- Hilltop Hot Spring
- Little Hot Creek
- Shepherd Hot Spring

Details about Whitmore Hot Springs
The area has been used as a destination for relaxation and healing since ancient times by Native American tribes who frequented its waters for their therapeutic qualities. The main attraction at Whitmore Hot Springs is the naturally-occurring mineral water that flows from deep within the Earth’s crust and emerges to form two large pools at temperatures ranging from 95–112 degrees Fahrenheit (35–44 Celsius). In addition to these pools, there are several smaller soaking tubs where visitors can enjoy a more intimate experience with nature.
Additionally, there are several trails nearby which offer spectacular views of the surrounding landscape and wildlife such as deer, bears, foxes, eagles and other birds. The hot springs provide an ideal setting for relaxation and rejuvenation due to its serene atmosphere free from distractions like cell phone service or television reception. Visitors often come here to soak in the warm mineral waters amidst lush vegetation while listening to calming sounds of nature all around them. Many believe that this type of environment helps reduce stress levels significantly over time through exposure to natural surroundings like those found at Whitmore Hot Springs.
Although it remains relatively unknown compared with other popular hot springs destinations in California such as Mono Lake or Big Sur State Park , Whitmore Hot Springs continues to be one of Eastern California’s hidden gems offering visitors an opportunity for restorative experiences away from civilization yet close enough so they don’t have travel too far out into remote terrain .
Rock Tub Hot Springs
Often talked about as a little oasis within Mammoth Lakes, Rock Tub Pool offers breathtaking views of California’s mountains. Again it can easily be mistakenly referred to as Whitmore Hot Springs which will lead you to a completely wrong area so make sure you don’t make the mistake like we have.
Out of all the springs tubs in the Long Valley Caldera, Rock Tub Hot Springs is by far the most popular due to it’s location (15 minute drive), access (directly off a parking area) and epic views. However, it’s still hidden away enough where you will feel secluded and one with nature. The average temperature of the tub sits around 100 degrees year round, which is actually colder than some of the other springs in the area.

Directions to Rock Tub Hot Springs
From Mammoth Lakes, California
1. Start on US-395 South
2. Make a left onto Benton Crossing Road (1 mile)
3. Make a left onto Whitmore Tubs Road (1 mile)
4. Turn right onto a small dirt road (unfortunately there is no markings, but you’ll see a parking area for the hot springs)
5. In .1 mile you will arrive at your destination.