Big Caliente Hot Springs

Big Caliente Hot Springs are a grouping of thermal mineral springs located in the Los Padres National Forest of California.[1]

Big Caliente Hot Springs
Little Caliente Hot Springs
Little Caliente Hot Springs, 4.8 miles north from Big Caliente Hot Springs
Location	near Santa Barbara, California
Coordinates	GPS N 34 32.353 W 119 33.876
Elevation	1,437 feet
Type	geothermal
Temperature	105°F to 115°F

Description

The hot spring water emerges at 115°F from a bluff and flows into a large, deep primitive rock and concrete soaking pool. The temperature of the water can be controlled by adjusting diversion valves. Another primitive soaking pool is located below the spring source, adjacent to the creek. A third soaking pool is located across the creek, with a temperature of 115°F, fed by a different hot spring.[2]

Location

The springs are accessed via a 13.3 mile hike[3] with many switchbacks. It is possible to drive to the site but it is not recommended as the gravel road tends to wash out and it becomes undrivable.[4] The GPS coordinates for Big Caliente Hot Springs are N 34 32.353 W 119 33.876.[2]

Little Caliente

The Little Caliente hot springs are located 4.8 miles away at 1,600 feet. The hot mineral water emerges from the springs at 105°F. There are several primitive rock-lined soaking pools. From Big Caliente, head north at Juncal Campground. The GPS coordinates for Little Caliente hot spring are: GPS N 34 32.430 W 119 37.176.[2] Little Caliente Hot Springs location DEC 34.540579°N 119.619612°W

References

1. "Big Caliente Day Use - Hot Springs". U.S. Forest Service. Retrieved 29 October 2020.
2. Gersh-Young, Marjorie (2011). Hot Springs and Hot Pools in the Southwest. Santa Cruz, California: Aqua Thermal. pp. 190–191. ISBN 978-1-890880-09-5.
3. "Big Caliente Spring Trail". Retrieved 29 October 2020.
4. "Big Caliente Hot Springs". California Beaches. Retrieved 29 October 2020.