Buckeye Hot Springs
Buckeye Hot Springs is a primitive thermal soaking spring located in Mono County, California Hot Springs near Bridgeport. Average water soak temperature is 104°F with a geothermal source temperature of 135°F. Access is 100% free on public land, and soak policy is traditionally clothing-optional. Explore nearby springs with our GPS Springs Near Me Finder.
Fact Sheet & Geothermal Specifications
| Average Soak Temp | 104°F |
| Geothermal Source Temp | 135°F |
| Hiking Distance | 0.1 miles (easy) |
| Access Fee | 100% Free Public Access |
| Clothing Policy | Clothing Optional |
| Pet Policy | Dog Friendly (Leashed) |
| Geothermal Data Citation | USGS Geothermal Data Portal |
| Public Land Management | California BLM Public Land Office |
Detailed Description
Natural thermal cascades over limestone travertines into rock-walled soaking pools along Buckeye Creek. Gorgeous Sierra views.
Directions & Trailhead Access
Take Twin Lakes Road from Bridgeport for 7 miles, turn right on Buckeye Road (dirt), drive 3 miles to parking area above creek.
Frequently Asked Questions: Buckeye Hot Springs
Is Buckeye Hot Springs free?+
Yes, Buckeye Hot Springs is 100% free to access on public Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest land near Bridgeport, California with zero entry fees or reservations required.
What temperature is Buckeye Hot Springs?+
The geothermal source water emerges at approximately 140°F and flows into natural creekside rock pools that cool to soaking temperatures ranging from 90°F to 110°F.
Can you camp at Buckeye Hot Springs?+
Camping is not permitted directly at the hot springs or parking lot. However, Buckeye Campground is located 1 mile west with 68 Forest Service sites (/night), plus dispersed camping on surrounding forest land.
How hard is the hike to Buckeye Hot Springs?+
The hike is a short (approx. 150 to 300 feet) but steep, rocky trail leading down from the parking area to Buckeye Creek.
Do you need 4WD to get to Buckeye Hot Springs?+
4WD is not strictly required in dry summer conditions, but a high-clearance vehicle is recommended because Buckeye Road is unpaved and washboarded. Heavy winter snow can make the road impassable.
Is Buckeye Hot Springs clothing optional?+
Yes, Buckeye Hot Springs is traditionally clothing-optionally enjoyed, and nudity is common at the pools.
Where to Stay Near Buckeye Hot Springs
Top-rated cabins, mountain lodges, and hotels near Bridgeport, CA with instant online booking.
Bridgeport Inn & Historic Suites
Virginia Creek Settlement Cabins
Walker River Lodge
USGS Field Data & Community Soaker Reports
Official USGS Geothermal Survey Logs & Verified Traveler ReportsOfficial USGS geothermal survey record for Buckeye Hot Springs in California. Source soak temperature verified at 104°F near Bridgeport. Public land access verified with zero entrance fee.
Wilderness access guide for Buckeye Hot Springs: Leashed pets permitted in surrounding trail areas. Practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out all waste.