Travertine Hot Springs is an outdoor gem in the Eastern Sierra Nevada, located just outside the charming town of Bridgeport, California.
The area draws visitors with its steaming hot springs, colorful travertine formations, and breathtaking mountain views.
It is a popular destination for soaking, sightseeing, and exploring the area's unique geology, with access from Highway 395.
Travertine Hot Springs Rockhounding
Travertine Hot Springs has some interesting rocks and minerals for collectors. The travertine is a type of limestone formed when mineral-rich thermal water deposits calcium carbonate around the springs.
Here’s what you can collect:
- Travertine: A banded limestone with shades of orange, red, yellow, gray, and white. It’s highly sought after for its beauty and is perfect for lapidary arts and polishing.
- Calcite: You can find white calcite alongside travertine.
If collecting is permitted in the area you are exploring, stick to small, loose pieces and avoid disturbing the natural formations around the pools. Do not break pieces from the terraces, pool walls, or other geothermal features.
There is loose material in some areas around the springs, but remember that this is a sensitive geothermal landscape. Collect responsibly and leave the area as you found it.
Before You Go
To make your visit enjoyable and stress-free, keep these tips in mind:
- Best time to visit: Travertine Hot Springs is open year-round, but spring and fall offer the best weather and views.
- What to bring: Pack a towel, water shoes, sunscreen, snacks, and plenty of water.
- What to expect: The hot springs are on BLM-managed public land, and there is no general entrance fee. Rock collecting on BLM land is subject to federal rules and local restrictions, so check posted signs and current BLM regulations before collecting..
The springs are relatively easy to reach from Highway 395, but the final approach includes dirt roads. Road conditions can vary, so check conditions before your trip.
Beyond the Rocks: Exploring the Area
Travertine Hot Springs is also a popular place to relax and soak. Several pools offer different temperatures, with beautiful views of the surrounding Eastern Sierra mountains.
There are several pools you can soak at after rockhounding.
Check out one of the most visited hot springs in California
Buckeye Hot Springs is another great hot springs spot a few miles from Bridgeport. The pools are tucked on the northern bank of Buckeye Creek within the Toiyabe National Forest.
Here are other nearby attractions to explore:
Mono Lake - A surreal saltwater lake with unique tufa formations, just a short drive south.
Yosemite National Park - One of America’s most iconic parks, known for waterfalls, granite cliffs, and incredible hiking trails, about an hour away.
Eastern Sierra Scenic Byway - Drive along Highway 395 to enjoy breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada mountains and access to countless hiking trails, lakes, and historical sites.
Travertine Hot Springs | Facts
Material: Calcite and travertine
Tools: None
Land type: High desert
Best time to visit: April to October
Land manager: Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
Fees: None
Location: 1.5 miles southeast of Bridgeport • California • USA
Road access: Any vehicle
Elevation: 6,600 ft (2,012 m)
Places to Stay Near Travertine Hot Springs
Camping is not allowed at the hot springs, but there are a few campgrounds nearby. You can also stay at one of the affordable lodging and vacation rentals in Bridgeport.
Affordable vacation rentals for short and long-term stays at Bridgeport
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Travertine Hot Springs Directions
From Highway 395 near milepost 76 at the south edge of Bridgeport,
- Turn left onto Jack Sawyer Road, just before the Ranger Station
- Drive 0.3 miles onto the paved road to the fork, bear left, and continue on the dirt road for 1.4 miles to the parking area.