Travertine Hot Springs Rockhounding

Travertine Hot Springs has some unique minerals you can collect. The travertine here is a sedimentary rock formed by mineral deposits from thermal 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.

Only collect small, loose pieces, and don't use tools. Avoid disturbing the natural formations near the pools or elsewhere.

There is plenty of loose material, even near parking, so respect the land and leave the area as you find it.

Know 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 springs are free to visit and managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). No permits are required.

The springs are easy to access with any vehicle, making them a great stop for road trippers, families, or solo adventurers.

Travertine Hot Springs is also a hot springs lover’s dream. Imagine soaking in perfectly warm, mineral-rich water while enjoying panoramic views of the High Sierra Mountains.

There are several pools you can soak at after a day of 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.