Hunt Hot Spring - US, CA
Hunt Hot Springs in California 96011 offers a unique outdoor experience with natural hot springs nestled in a peaceful forest setting. While not a traditional dog park, this location provides pet-friendly trails and scenic dog-friendly hiking opportunities around the springs and campsites. Visitors should note that access requires a reservation through the Hipcamp platform, ensuring a controlled and respectful environment for all guests.
The springs feature multiple tubs with varying temperatures, from warm to very hot, perfect for relaxation after a day of exploring. The area is private property, so visitors are encouraged to respect the land by following rules such as no dogs in the springs area, no camping outside designated spots, and leaving no trace. With its serene atmosphere and natural beauty, Hunt Hot Springs is a great destination for dog owners seeking a peaceful retreat with their pets nearby in Northern California.
FAQ for Hunt Hot Spring in US California:
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Dogs are not allowed at Hunt Hot Springs as it is private property and the owner specifically states no dogs are permitted.
- Is there a fee or membership required to enter? Yes, access requires a reservation through the Hipcamp page for Kosk Creek Campground, which costs $50 per night.
- Where is the best place to park? You park outside the locked gate and then walk about 10 minutes from the campsite to the springs; some caution is advised regarding vehicle safety as the area can feel lawless and there have been reports of theft.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? Yes, visitors should be prepared to dig out their vehicles after heavy rains; bringing shovels, cement, and rock is recommended if you plan to build a new tub.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, from the main springs there is a side trail leading to more secluded tubs throughout the forest.
Reviews
We visited Hunt Hot Springs and had an amazing experience! At first, we had a little trouble finding the gate, and later found out that you need a reservation to enter. Thankfully, we ran into someone who had just come out and he helped us get in touch with Scott, who manages the area.We booked our reservation through his Hipcamp page (Kosk Creek Campground). After payment, Scott gave us the gate code. From the gate, it’s a short drive (a mile or two) to the campsite, and from there it’s about a 10-minute walk to the springs.The springs themselves were stunning—natural, peaceful, and surrounded by forest. The water was a bit cold in the main pool but still swimmable. There are also tubs filled with natural hot spring water—one is medium temperature and the other is very hot (around 130°F). If you take the side trail from the main springs, it leads to more secluded tubs hidden throughout the forest.Highly recommend for anyone looking for a unique and beautiful hot springs experience—just make sure to reserve ahead of time!
As a former reviewer said, these hot springs are no longer open freely to the public. Upon reading the signs and checking things online, it appears they are now renting this section of their property out for NULL per night on a camping reservation website. This can only be found out with time invested online searching because the signs don’t make it clear that this is now a campground. Sucks to lose what was once a free natural area to a private campground. Note that is more expensive than hot springs on public lands, even those that charge fees for upkeep. It would be your choice to decide, but I will note a couple people on the reservation website claim to have booked reservations but weren’t able to get access beyond the locked gate, so they claim to have paid the fee for nothing. Others give it a good review but for me, the prospect of paying that high camping fee for hot springs is probably not my choice, especially if the campground is at capacity with 25 tent/RVs full of people all around. You never know but…🤷
Super bummed! We drove almost 3 hours to see a no trespassing sign. Gate was closed but someone was back there camping. Didn’t actually get to see the hot springs as we didn’t want to go past the closed gate.
They got two “pool” yet be smart about it don’t get too close as it’s really hot. Clothing is optional for both pool when we were there. Always takes your trash away and try not to bring glass.We went there in early 2021 and was lucky that nobody smashed the car window but driving from the South(Summit Lake Road) we saw bunch of homeless camp and it definitely makes you feel like you are in a lawless place, gov needs to do something about the road and its surrounding.If you able to affoard paid hot spring resort, go to that one instead, otherwise, here’s my advice to you:Don’t leave any belonging in your car, don’t expect you will have reception(Verizon 1bar, T-Mobile none, ATT none), be prepared and be respectful. If you go alone, let your friends know where you heading to. Be safe and have a great time.
Prepare to dig out after heavy rains. Bring shovels, cement and rock if you’re down to build a new tub. It is private property so respect the fact the owner says you can come on so long as you have no dogs, don’t camp, and definitely don’t leave a trace. In other words, pick up your trash! The tubs are extremely hot and people are known to be nude so keep that in mind for virgin eyes. No promises on your safety of your vehicle, your items, and the safety of yourself. So don’t be disrespectful to the land and locals. I’m sure they can go “Deliverance” on you if need be. And you’re only way back to safety anywhere might be down this creek 😉.