After braving the bumpy road and a hike, a relaxing hot spring oasis awaits. Although the hot spring is primitive, the geothermally heated mineral pools provide a unique opportunity for soaking amidst nature in Los Padres National Forest. There are three pools in the area. First, a larger cement pool, or Big Caliente, sits directly beside the hot spring. Slightly further into the canyon where the first pool is located, two additional, smaller pools, called Little Caliente, sit by a creek. On cool nights, visitors have unparalleled views of the night sky while soaking in the geothermal mineral water. The Hot Springs are open from 6 am – 10 pm, and there are no entry fees.
While visiting Big and Little Caliente Hot Springs is free, an Adventure Pass is required for overnight stays. Camping is not allowed in the direct vicinity of the hot springs, but the walk from Rock Camp, the closest campground, is less than one-third of a mile. Additionally, there are a few nearby campgrounds provided by the National Forest Service.
