Big Caliente Hot Springs
Santa Barbara, California
Photo by Andrew Fodor via Google Maps
Click thumbnails to view larger photos • Photos from Google Maps
About Big Caliente Hot Springs
Tucked deep in the Los Padres National Forest behind Santa Barbara, Big Caliente rewards hikers with a concrete-and-stone soaking pool fed by a natural 115°F spring. The shaded canyon setting along a seasonal creek provides a lush contrast to the surrounding chaparral. A classic Southern California backcountry soak.
Access
Moderate hike
Overnight
No
Clothing Optional
Yes
Features
Water Minerals
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the water temperature at Big Caliente Hot Springs?
- The water temperature at Big Caliente Hot Springs is 115°F.
- How much does Big Caliente Hot Springs cost?
- Big Caliente Hot Springs is free to visit.
- Is Big Caliente Hot Springs clothing optional?
- Yes, Big Caliente Hot Springs is clothing optional.
- What minerals are in the water at Big Caliente Hot Springs?
- The water at Big Caliente Hot Springs contains Sulfur, Calcium, Sodium, Bicarbonate.
- How difficult is it to get to Big Caliente Hot Springs?
- Big Caliente Hot Springs has a moderate difficulty level with moderate hike access.
Recent Google Reviews
"11 miles, 2 hours and 20 minutes by bike. You need to bring food and drinks. Very nice place.🚴♂️🚴♀️"
"Just got back from bikepacking into here along Romero Camuesa Road starting at the end of Camino Cielo. The ride down was relatively technical but totally doable on a steel-frame touring bike. There ..."
"The big pool is broken, one of the upper pools is still good, the other is damaged by a falling rock. Still, nice and hot. At the moment the roads are closed, but a suitable bike or hike will get you ..."
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