Natural swimming hole
Saline Valley Hot Springs
Spring · California
Community-reported spot. Details below are compiled from public sources and are reported to be accurate — always verify locally before visiting.
About this swimming hole
Saline Valley Hot Springs is a legendary desert oasis deep in Death Valley National Park, with palm-shaded pools, a huge warm swimming pool, and some of the darkest night skies in America. Reaching it requires miles of washboarded dirt road — the remoteness is the point. Clothing-optional and free, it rewards the committed with total solitude.
Good to know
| Water type | Spring |
|---|---|
| Water temperature | 90-110 in pools |
| Depth | soaking pools of varying temperature |
| Best season | October-April |
| Fees | Free (park entrance fee applies) |
| Reservations required | No |
| Parking | campground parking at the springs; 4WD/high-clearance advised |
| Amenities | vault toilets, campground |
| County | Inyo County |
| Nearest town | (remote; via Death Valley NP) |
| Safety notes | no lifeguard; extremely remote — carry extra water, fuel, and supplies; summer heat is lethal |
Map
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Saline Valley Hot Springs?
Yes — Saline Valley Hot Springs is listed as a natural swimming spot in California. Reported water temperature: 90-110 in pools. Heads-up: no lifeguard; extremely remote — carry extra water, fuel, and supplies; summer heat is lethal. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Saline Valley Hot Springs require reservations?
No reservations are required at Saline Valley Hot Springs based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Saline Valley Hot Springs?
Reported fee info: Free (park entrance fee applies). Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Saline Valley Hot Springs?
The best season is typically October-April.