Benton Hot Springs - Complete 2024 Guide
Benton Hot Springs, located in California, is famous for its natural hot springs. In fact, it’s one of our favorite hot springs in California. It's a peaceful destination where visitors can unwind and enjoy the healing benefits of hot springs. The area has a rich history, once bustling with activity during the mining era of the 1800s. Nowadays, Benton Hot Springs is all about tranquility and connecting with nature.
What sets Benton apart is the option to soak in private tubs. These tubs are part of The Inn at Benton Hot Springs, a cozy bed and breakfast where guests can spend the night and have exclusive access to the hot springs. Surrounded by stunning mountain and desert views, it's an ideal place for stargazing without any light pollution. Benton Hot Springs offers a unique blend of relaxation, seclusion, and a glimpse into the past amidst the beauty of the outdoors.
Getting to Benton Hot Springs
If you're planning a trip to Benton Hot Springs, chances are you'll have to start your journey from a larger city since it's quite off the beaten path. If you're coming from Los Angeles, it'll take you approximately 5 hours to drive north. Along the way, you'll pass through some breathtaking landscapes, including mountains and desert scenery. The nearest major town is Bishop, which is about an hour away. From Bishop, simply follow Highway 6 until you reach Benton Crossing Road, and that will lead you straight to Benton Hot Springs. The roads are in good condition, but keep in mind that it's a bit of a trek, especially the final stretch, which can feel quite isolated.
Once you're nearing Benton Hot Springs, you'll notice that the area becomes incredibly peaceful and expansive. There aren't any large stores or gas stations around, so make sure you have all your essentials before arriving. While the directions are fairly straightforward, it's a good idea to use a GPS or map app since the cell service can be unreliable. The drive itself is part of the adventure, offering stunning views and a sense of heading towards somewhere truly special and secluded. Benton Hot Springs truly feels like a hidden gem, tucked away from busy roads and known only to a select few.
The Pools
Private Hot Spring Tubs: Each guest at The Inn at Benton Hot Springs gets their own private hot spring tub, offering a secluded and personal relaxation experience.
Natural Healing Waters: The pools are filled with natural spring water, believed to have health benefits for the skin and body.
Adjustable Temperature: You can control the temperature of your private tub, ensuring the water is just right for your comfort level.
Outdoor Setting: The tubs are located outdoors, allowing guests to soak in the warm waters while enjoying the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and desert landscape.
Nighttime Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, guests can enjoy spectacular stargazing from the comfort of their hot spring tub at night.
Scenic and Quiet: Benton Hot Springs offers a peaceful retreat, with the natural beauty of the Eastern Sierra providing a tranquil backdrop for relaxation.
Historic Charm: The town of Benton and its hot springs carry a rich history, adding a unique charm to the soaking experience.
The pools at Benton Hot Springs are truly one-of-a-kind because they provide a special and exclusive soaking experience. When you reserve a room at The Inn at Benton Hot Springs, you get the added bonus of having your very own hot spring tub. This means you can enjoy your soak in complete privacy and comfort, without having to share the space with strangers. These natural hot springs have been known for their relaxation and health benefits for centuries, and taking a dip in them can help relieve muscle tension and soothe your skin.
What sets these pools apart is their incredible location. Each tub is situated outdoors, offering breathtaking views of the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains and the vast, open landscape. It's the perfect combination of soothing thermal waters and awe-inspiring scenery. Whether you choose to soak during the day or under the starry night sky, the tranquility and beauty of the surroundings only enhance the overall experience. The temperature of the tubs can be adjusted to your liking, ensuring that you find the perfect level of warmth for your ultimate comfort. This customization allows you to enjoy a soak that is just right for you, whether you prefer a hotter or cooler bath.
Aside from the individual hot spring tubs, Benton Hot Springs and The Inn also provide other amenities to make your stay even more enjoyable. The area surrounding the inn is a paradise for exploration, with numerous hiking trails and spots for observing nature.
Amenities
Benton Hot Springs has a charming bed and breakfast known as The Inn at Benton Hot Springs. This lovely establishment offers comfortable rooms that are perfect for unwinding after a day of enjoying the hot springs. Each room has its own unique style, and some even come with their own private hot spring tubs just outside. This means you can easily step out of your room and into warm, soothing water whenever you please. In addition to the cozy rooms, there is also space available for RVs and camping, for those who prefer a closer connection with nature.
The Inn goes beyond just providing a place to sleep. They have a welcoming common area where guests can mingle, share stories, or simply relax. When it comes to meals, breakfast is included for guests staying in the rooms, ensuring a delicious start to the day. For those camping or in an RV, there are grills and picnic areas available for cooking your own meals. The entire property is peaceful and offers breathtaking views of the mountains and desert, making it an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Staff
The employees at Benton Hot Springs are renowned for their friendliness and helpfulness. They go out of their way to ensure guests feel welcomed as soon as they arrive. If you require anything, such as extra towels or assistance with adjusting the temperature in your hot spring tub, they are always ready to help. Additionally, the staff is very knowledgeable about the area and can provide recommendations on places to visit and activities to do.
They take great care in maintaining the cleanliness and upkeep of the property, which is crucial in a remote location. Their meticulous attention to detail enhances the overall experience for guests. For instance, they make sure that the private tubs are spotless and prepared for each guest. Furthermore, they oversee the bed and breakfast as well as the campground, ensuring that all guests, whether they are staying in a room or camping, have an enjoyable time. The hard work and welcoming demeanor of the staff play a significant role in making Benton Hot Springs a delightful destination to visit.
Things To Do Near Benton Hot Springs
Hiking in the Eastern Sierra: Explore beautiful trails in the mountains for amazing views and outdoor fun.
Fishing: Nearby rivers and lakes offer great spots for trout fishing.
Visit the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest: See some of the oldest living trees in the world, just a drive away.
Explore Bodie Ghost Town: Walk through a preserved Wild West mining town and learn about its history.
Photography: The scenic landscapes around Benton Hot Springs are perfect for photographers.
Stargazing: With clear skies and minimal light pollution, it's an ideal place for looking at the stars.
Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife like deer, birds, and more in the surrounding areas.
Near Benton Hot Springs, there's a lot to do if you like the outdoors. You can explore the Eastern Sierra mountains which are great for hiking and taking pictures. The scenery is amazing with mountains, valleys, and clear skies. If you're into fishing, the nearby rivers and lakes are perfect for catching trout. There's also a spot called the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest. It's not too far away and it's home to some of the oldest trees in the world, really cool for a day trip.
For those who like history, the ghost town of Bodie is a must-see. It's an old gold mining town that's now a state historic park. Walking around Bodie, you can see old buildings and learn about life in the Wild West. It's like stepping back in time. Both Bodie and the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest are about an hour's drive from Benton Hot Springs, making them easy day trips. Whether you're into nature, fishing, or history, there's something close by to explore.
Best Restaurants Near Benton Hot Springs
Benton Hot Springs is quite remote, so there aren't many restaurants right next to it. But, there are a few places within a reasonable driving distance where you can grab a bite to eat. Here's a list of spots that are known for good food, though you might need to drive a bit to get to them:
Copper Top BBQ: This place is in Big Pine, and it's famous for its delicious barbecue dishes. People love the ribs and pulled pork.
Holy Smoke Texas BBQ: Located in Bishop, it's another great spot for barbecue lovers. The brisket and homemade sides are favorites.
The Bakery: Also in Bishop, known for fresh bread, pastries, and sandwiches. It's a good place for breakfast or lunch.
Erick Schat’s Bakery: A must-visit in Bishop for their original Sheepherder bread, sandwiches, and sweet treats.
Mahogany Smoked Meats: In Bishop, this spot offers smoked meats like jerky and sausages, plus sandwiches made with their smoked meats.
Since Benton Hot Springs is a bit out of the way, remember to check the opening hours before you go, as some places might have different schedules or seasonal closures.
History
Benton Hot Springs has a long history dating back to the 1800s when it was first discovered by silver prospectors. The hot water from the springs was found to have special healing properties, attracting people seeking relief from various ailments. As a result, Benton Hot Springs became a popular destination for those looking to benefit from its therapeutic waters.
As time passed, the town of Benton developed around the hot springs, thriving due to both mining activities and the popularity of the springs. However, with the decline of mining, the town also slowed down. Today, Benton Hot Springs is known for its tranquility, offering visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The hot springs remain a prominent feature, with a bed and breakfast now available for guests to enjoy private tubs filled with the healing waters. The rich history of Benton Hot Springs continues to draw visitors, making it a fascinating place to explore.
Is It Worth It?
Benton Hot Springs is definitely worth it if you're in need of a peaceful and rejuvenating escape. The best part is having your own private hot spring tubs, whether you choose to stay in the inn or at the campground. This means you can enjoy the soothing and therapeutic waters whenever you please, without having to share with strangers. It's incredibly serene and the ideal spot to unwind, especially with the stunning desert and mountain views surrounding you. Plus, being able to adjust the temperature of your own tub adds to the overall experience.
Another great thing about this place is its rich history and the opportunity to explore nearby attractions, such as hiking in the Eastern Sierra or visiting the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest. Despite feeling secluded, Benton Hot Springs offers plenty to do if you're a nature lover or history enthusiast. The staff is friendly and the place is well-maintained, ensuring a positive experience all around. If you value privacy, relaxation, and the beauty of nature, Benton Hot Springs is definitely worth a visit.
