Overview of Shepherd Hot Springs

Shepherd Hot Springs is a popular natural soaking spot in the Long Valley Caldera near Mammoth Lakes, California. It features a small, man-made concrete tub fed by geothermal water, offering a relaxing soak with stunning mountain views. The springs are open year-round, but road conditions vary by season. Despite its simplicity, Shepherd Hot Springs is beloved for its easy access and scenic setting, often cited as one of the best hot springs near Mammoth Lakes.

Accessibility and Getting There

Shepherd Hot Springs is extremely accessible – it is right off the road with minimal hiking required. The springs sit just off Whitmore Tubs Road, about 10 miles east of Mammoth Lakes. The final approach is on a well-maintained but bumpy dirt road. Most standard vehicles can navigate the road in dry conditions; a high-clearance vehicle is recommended after rain or snow to avoid bottoming out in ruts. The last half-mile is unpaved, but it’s passable and well worth the drive. Shepherd Hot Springs has no official address (it’s on public land), but GPS coordinates are 37°40’00.9″N 118°48’12.1″W. From Mammoth Lakes, it’s about a 20-minute drive east on Highway 395 to Benton Crossing Road, then a short turn onto Whitmore Tubs Road. In winter, the dirt road may be closed by snow, but visitors can sometimes reach the springs by snowmobile or snowshoe. Overall, Shepherd Hot Springs is one of the easiest hot springs in the area to access, with no hike needed and a short drive from Mammoth Lakes.

Temperature and Pool Details

Shepherd Hot Springs’ water is naturally hot – it emerges from the geothermal source at around 135°F (57°C). By the time it flows into the small soaking pool, the temperature cools to a comfortable 98–105°F (37–40°C). The pool has a valve that allows visitors to adjust the water temperature by controlling the flow from the hot spring source. Despite its small size, the pool is deep enough to submerge up to your neck, providing a full-body soak. The water is rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, and silica, which can be gentle on the skin. The tub itself is a simple concrete pool with built-in benches, making it one of the more comfortable natural soaking spots in the area. In summary, the temperature is pleasantly warm (cooled from the hot source), and the pool is designed for a relaxing soak with mountain views.

Visiting Season (2025)

Shepherd Hot Springs can be enjoyed year-round, but the best times to visit are generally in spring, summer, and fall. These seasons offer milder weather and easy road access. In winter, the area can be very cold, and the dirt road may be closed by snow, so visitors should check conditions before traveling. That said, adventurous visitors can sometimes ski or snowmobile in to soak in the hot water with a winter wonderland backdrop. Summer (June to August) is the peak season for tourists, and Shepherd Hot Springs can get busy on weekends and holidays. Many visitors opt to come early in the morning or at sunset to avoid the midday heat and crowds. Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) are considered the most comfortable times – the weather is cool enough that soaking is enjoyable day or night, and there are fewer bugs. The views in spring can be especially beautiful with fresh snow on the mountains and wildflowers in bloom. In 2025, the area is expected to be open and accessible by late spring, as roads are typically cleared by May or June. Mammoth Lakes’ high-elevation climate means summer days are warm (often in the 70s°F) but nights can be cool, and winter brings heavy snowfall. Overall, Shepherd Hot Springs is open year-round, but the optimal visiting season in 2025 will likely be spring, summer, and fall when the weather is favorable and the road is passable.

Amenities and Camping Options

Shepherd Hot Springs is a primitive hot spring – there are no facilities on-site. There are no restrooms, showers, or running water at the springs, and no lifeguards or official maintenance. Visitors should come prepared with their own supplies, including towels, soap (if desired, though soap is not necessary and not recommended in natural springs), and any personal items. It’s important to follow Leave No Trace principles: pack out all trash, avoid using glass containers, and respect the fragile natural surroundings. Camping is not permitted directly at the springs, but the area is popular for dispersed camping on public land nearby. There are a few small, informal campsites within walking distance of the tub. These sites are on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land and can accommodate tents or small RVs (a few spots, mostly for tents or compact RVs). However, space is limited and the road in can be bumpy for larger rigs. There are no fees to use the hot springs or to camp in the area – it’s free to visit. In summary, Shepherd Hot Springs offers a rustic soaking experience with no modern amenities. Visitors should plan accordingly, bringing everything they need, and be prepared for a backcountry-style soak in the wilderness.

Crowd Levels and Solitude

Shepherd Hot Springs is a popular destination, especially among travelers in the Mammoth Lakes area. It is often cited as the most accessible and beloved soaking spot in the Eastern Sierra. The small size of the pool means that crowding can be an issue, especially on weekends and during peak tourist season (late spring through early fall). In fact, Shepherd Hot Spring is typically “somewhat busy,” with trailgoers reporting that it’s often crowded, particularly in the warmer months. Many visitors come for a quick dip during a road trip, and it’s not uncommon to share the tub with other guests. That said, Shepherd is still relatively less crowded than some of the other nearby hot springs, like Crowley Lake’s “Wild Willy’s” Hot Springs, which can be very busy. The atmosphere at Shepherd is generally relaxed and respectful, with visitors often coming alone or in small groups. It’s worth noting that clothing is optional at Shepherd (as it is at many wild hot springs), so visitors should be prepared for that environment. To avoid crowds, some people visit early in the morning (when it’s quietest) or later in the day, especially in summer when midday heat may thin out the crowd. Weekdays are usually less crowded than weekends. If you prefer solitude, visiting in the off-peak season or on a weekday is recommended. In summary, Shepherd Hot Springs is popular and can get busy, but it’s generally considered to be a well-behaved and welcoming soaking community. While you might have to share the pool at times, the experience is still enjoyable and many visitors find the social aspect part of the charm.

Photos and Personal Experiences

Shepherd Hot Springs offers a stunning setting for soaking. The pool is nestled in a meadow with 360-degree mountain views, making it a memorable experience. Visitors often describe the scenery as postcard-worthy, with the Sierra Nevada peaks visible all around. Many personal accounts emphasize the easy access – stepping out of your car and immediately into the warm water is a big plus. One visitor noted that “the small tub can comfortably fit about 4 people,” indicating that while it’s cozy, you can usually find a spot to relax. Another shared a personal experience: “We arrived at 7:30am on a Thursday in July, we shared the pool with two other people… About 30 minutes later, our company left and we had Shepherd Hot Springs to ourselves for an hour before moving on ourselves.” This highlights how visiting early can allow you to have the pool to yourself or with just a few others. Many travelers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere at Shepherd, especially at sunrise or sunset. One visitor described waking up to soak at sunrise: “the whole scene was just spectacular, like the sky was glowing.” Others have noted the rustic charm – the simple concrete tub with steam rising from it, and the sound of the geothermal water flowing. Some personal stories also mention meeting other travelers in the tub – a social aspect that many find adds to the experience. Overall, personal accounts and photos of Shepherd Hot Springs often show a tranquil scene: people soaking in the warm water with mountains and blue sky in the background. The experience is frequently described as relaxing and rejuvenating, with visitors leaving feeling refreshed and with lasting memories of the beautiful location.

Pro-Con Analysis

To summarize the pros and cons of visiting Shepherd Hot Springs, we’ve compiled a list based on user and expert reviews:

Overall, Shepherd Hot Springs is highly recommended for its accessibility and scenery, despite a few minor drawbacks. Many travelers find the trade-off of a short drive and possible crowds worth it for the chance to soak in a beautiful alpine setting with therapeutic hot water. With proper preparation and an understanding of the conditions, a visit to Shepherd Hot Springs can be a memorable and relaxing experience in the heart of California’s Eastern Sierra.