Hot springs near Los Angeles to soak in

Tucked away in the San Bernadino National Forest just outside of Apple Valley, these secluded clothing-optional hot springs are an oasis for the adventurous. Those who love to hike will appreciate the arduous trek to the springs. The most popular access point is via Bowen Ranch Road, a privately-owned dirt road where you’ll find parking for a small fee and the trail entrance. Be sure to pack lots of water for the hike, especially during the 100-plus degree summer months.

Requires a 2.5-mile hike from Bowen Ranch Road. $10 parking fee. Go early morning to avoid the desert heat.

Calling all backpackers: For a truly gratifying trek to Ojai’s off-the-beaten-path hot springs, embark on the Piedra Blanca Trailhead in the Los Padres National Forest. The trail, located at the end of Sespe River Road, guides you down just over a 20 mile path (round-trip). The light at the end of the tunnel comes in the form of two hot springs: Willett and Sespe (the latter of which is furthest and thus more secluded). Go at your own pace and turn the hike into a weekend getaway with nights at various campsites along the way. 

Requires an Adventure Pass for parking at $5 per day or $30 annually. Overnight camping is not allowed on the trailhead, but there are campsites at nearby Middle Lion or Rose Valley.

If you’re looking for a truly secluded experience in the far reaches of Death Valley National Park, this is the place for you. An open desert landscape, faroff mountain silhouettes and clusters of palm trees surround this small natural hot spring. It’s certainly picturesque, though you may encounter a few bare campers at this clothing-optional oasis. Admire the natural beauty of the terrain, bask in the isolating silence of the desert and float in the earth’s natural spring. 

Expect rough roadways so come prepared with a well-equipped vehicle. $15 per person or $30 per vehicle to enter Death Valley National Park. Camping overnight is recommended.

Since it was founded in 1860, Glen Ivy Hot Springs has drawn relaxation seekers to its natural mineral waters and extensive wellness offerings in Corona. About a two-hour drive from Los Angeles, this resort-like day spa offers a playground of lounge pools, mud baths, saunas, spa treatments, salon boutiques and fitness classes. But perhaps the biggest draw is the line of 104-degree mineral baths. Soak in the pools, book a massage or facial and top off the day with a fresh juice at the property’s farm-to-table restaurant. 

Arrive 30 minutes before opening time at 9am to avoid lines and get prime parking. General admission for pools and grounds access is $85–$104 per person. Holiday rates may differ.

Include the Gaviota Hot Springs in your next trip to Santa Barbara; it’s a short drive north and the mineral waters are easily accessible by a quick hike from the parking area. Surrounded by rich greenery, this little slice of paradise is as picturesque as it is soothing. If you’re feeling rejuvenated and energized, you can always continue your adventure along the adjacent Tresspass Trail.

Requires about a 1-mile hike. Parking is $2. 

Go au naturel at these hot mineral pools in Tecopa, tucked away near the southern end of Death Valley National Park. At Tecopa Hot Springs Campground, the clothing-prohibited baths are separate for men and women. There’s also a private solo soak option for an additional fee. Further down the road, you’ll find the natural Tecopa Hot Springs, a free open hot spring drawing visitors for its breathtaking views. There are no facilities at this pit stop and it can get a bit muddy on the way in, but the views and hot soak are worth dealing with the elements.

Campground nightly rates $25–$45. The Tecopa Hot Springs down the road is free.

An adult-only property with views of the San Jacinto and San Gorgonio Mountains, this Desert Hot Springs retreat focuses on rejuvination and cleansing. Soak in three healing mineral pools said to help relieve pain and provide other health benefits. Book a treatment at the spa, detox in the sauna or hop between the property’s pools and mineral waters for a relaxing repose in the desert.

Access mineral pools and saunas complementary for two hours after booking a spa service of 50 minutes or more ($95 and up).

With the claim to the city’s only naturally-heated mineral hot tub, this Koreatown spa caters not only to regulars of the soak-and-scrub Korean sauna, but also to newbies and those willing to dish out a few extra bucks for hydrotherapy treatments. The geothermal pools reach 95 to 105 degrees.

Admission is $45 Mon, Wed–Thu, and $50 on weekends. Amenities are free with purchase of treatment.