¶ Buckeye Hot Springs – 2024 Complete Guide
Buckeye Hot Springs is a natural hot spring tucked away near Bridgeport, California. Steamy waters bubble up right next to the chilly Buckeye Creek, creating a wild mix of hot and cold. Getting there involves a short but rugged hike, and the naturally carved rock pools are surrounded by mountains and open sky. The springs remain uncommercialised and rustic — that's a large part of their charm.
¶ Tips for Visiting
- Wear Good Shoes: The hike down is short but rugged. Good hiking shoes or boots will protect your ankles.
- Come Early or Late: Midday can get crowded, especially on weekends.
- Pack Light but Right: Bring water, snacks, a towel, and a swimsuit.
- Keep an Eye on the Weather: Snow can make the trail tricky in winter.
- Leave No Trace: Pack out whatever you bring in.
- Be Ready for Nature: No changing rooms or formal facilities.
- Respect Privacy: It's a gorgeous spot for photos, but be considerate of other visitors.
¶ Directions
¶ From Reno, NV
- Head South on US-395 through Carson City and continue south.
- Turn Right onto CA-89 S and follow through Monitor Pass.
- Turn Right onto Twin Lakes Rd just before entering Bridgeport; continue 10 miles, then turn left onto Buckeye Rd for 1.2 miles.
¶ From Sacramento, CA
- Take I-80 E to Auburn, then take CA-20 E towards Grass Valley.
- Merge onto US-395 S, following CA-89 N then CA-4 E, continuing south to Bridgeport.
- Turn Right onto Twin Lakes Rd; continue 10 miles, then left onto Buckeye Rd for 1.2 miles.
¶ From Fresno, CA
- Take CA-41 N towards Yosemite, then CA-120 E towards Groveland.
- Continue on CA-108 E through Sonora Pass into Bridgeport, then south on US-395.
- Turn Right onto Twin Lakes Rd; continue 10 miles, then left onto Buckeye Rd for 1.2 miles.
¶ The Pools
The naturally formed rock pools catch hot spring water and sit right alongside Buckeye Creek. Each pool has a slightly different temperature depending on how the hot water mixes with the cold creek water, so you can move between pools to find the right temperature. The setting features mountains, trees, and open sky. No improvements or facilities have been added — the pools are all-natural.
¶ Amenities and Facilities
Buckeye Hot Springs has no spa, snack bar, or Wi-Fi. Facilities include:
- Natural rock pools with thermal water sourced directly from the ground
- A small parking area at the trailhead
- The Eastern Sierras as a backdrop
There are no changing rooms or formal restrooms. Bring everything you need.
¶ What to Bring
- Good hiking shoes
- Swimsuit
- Water
- Snacks
- Towel
- Trash bag (pack it in, pack it out)
- Warm clothes (it gets chilly after sunset)
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Sunscreen
- Camera
¶ Best Time to Visit
- Spring: Ideal weather, lively creek from snowmelt, dramatic hot/cold contrast, less crowded.
- Fall: Beautiful foliage, fewer visitors, comfortable temperatures.
- Summer: Popular and can get packed, but hot springs feel great on cool evenings.
- Winter: Stunning with snow, but the road and trail can be icy and the trek is chilly. Come prepared.
Spring and fall offer the best overall experience.
¶ Things to Do Nearby
- Hiking: Trails to Sierra Nevada viewpoints and higher elevations.
- Fishing: The East Walker River and nearby streams are prime trout spots.
- Bird Watching: Wide variety of species in the area.
- Photography: Exceptional landscapes at sunrise and sunset.
- Mountain Biking: Trails ranging from easy to challenging.
- Stargazing: Minimal light pollution makes for excellent night skies.
- Visit Bodie State Historic Park: A well-preserved gold rush ghost town nearby.
- Other Hot Springs: Several other springs are scattered around the area, each with its own character.
¶ Places to Eat Near Buckeye Hot Springs
Most dining options are in Bridgeport:
- J's on the Corner – Casual burgers and quick bites.
- Rhino Bar and Grill – Comfort food and steaks in a cozy setting.
- Bodie Mike's Barbeque – Ribs, brisket, and classic BBQ.
- Bridgeport Inn – More of a sit-down experience with a historical feel.
- High Sierra Bakery – Coffee, pastries, and sandwiches for breakfast or a picnic lunch.
¶ History
Buckeye Hot Springs has been used for centuries. Native Americans originally used the natural hot springs for their healing properties. As settlers moved west and explored the Sierra Nevadas, the springs became a rest stop for travellers and miners during the California Gold Rush. There is no grand founding story — the springs have always been somewhat under the radar. Despite growing popularity over the years, the site has retained its rustic, untouched character with no resort development or formal infrastructure.
¶ Is Buckeye Hot Springs Worth Visiting?
Yes. Buckeye Hot Springs offers a rare combination of natural hot mineral water, a cool creek, striking Sierra Nevada scenery, and a laid-back atmosphere that has not been commercialised. The hike to reach it adds to the experience. It suits solo travellers seeking quiet as well as groups on outdoor adventures. Respect the environment, pack out your rubbish, and take time to appreciate the surrounding landscape.
¶ Photos
Imported from https://www.findinghotsprings.com/mag/buckeye-hot-springs.