Nestled in the Mojave Desert, near the Death Valley National Park, Tecopa Hot Springs is a delightful secret waiting to be uncovered.
This small town is all about relaxation. It offers soothing geothermal waters that are perfect for soaking away the stresses of daily life.
I’ve always found something special about the way the desert landscape wraps around you here. It’s easy to forget the world outside.
Tecopa offers a charming vibe, tasty local eats, a variety of outdoor activities, plus a secret warm springs pool. It is the perfect spot for a weekend if you are looking to unwind and connect with nature.
It’s a place where you can truly escape and find your bliss.
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The Free Tecopa Hot Springs Experience
For those seeking a free and off-the-beaten-path adventure, Tecopa Hot Springs is your destination!
This public hot spring is located just outside town. It is surrounded by the serene desert landscape and offers a peaceful and meditative environment.
The odor-free, mineral-rich water ranges from 80°F to 104°F, depending on where you are in the pool.
The source water bubbles up from different locations in the natural pond. The water has a silky texture you can feel on your skin while soaking!
The soft silt at the bottom and sides of the pond acts as a natural exfoliant. You’ll see visitors apply the mud to their skin, believing in its therapeutic properties.
These mineral-rich waters are clear and are sought after for their soothing and healing qualities.
Although free to use, the area is not maintained, so conditions can vary.
Some areas may be shallow or heavily silted.
As with any natural hot spring, it’s important to practice good etiquette:
- Make sure to pack out all trash
- Wear water shoes for safety
- Respect the wild life
- Be mindful that this spring is clothing-optional
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Location and How to Get to Free Public Tecopa Hot Springs
Tecopa Hot Springs is located in Southern California. It’s about 80 miles from Las Vegas and 45 miles from the entrance of Death Valley National Park.
This makes it a popular stop for travelers exploring the desert region.
The drive from Las Vegas takes just over an hour. A simple drive on Highway 160 and Old Spanish Trail Highway (aka Tecopa Rd).
And if you are coming from Los Angeles, you’ll be turning off from Baker on Highway 127.
Once you’re in the Tecopa area, you’ll find the hot springs just outside of the town. It is off of Tecopa Hot Springs Rd.
A Hidden Hot Springs with Disperse Camping
Looking for a more secluded hot springs experience?
There’s a hidden, manmade hot spring pool located about 7 minutes from the public pool.
This underground cemented pool offers a more private soaking experience. It’s perfect for a small group as it can comfortably fit up to about 4 people.
To access the pool, you’ll take 2 steps down into the water, which is cooler compared to Tecopa Hot Springs.
While the water isn’t as silky as what you’d find in Tecopa, this spot offers something equally unique. It’s tranquil setting under a large palm tree provides both shade and privacy.
Surrounded by green grass and a few benches and chairs, it’s a great spot to relax and unwind.
On both sides of the pool is BLM (Bureau of Land Management) land, where you can enjoy free dispersed camping.
The camping area is spacious enough to accommodate several vehicles. It’s a perfect overnight spot for those traveling in vans or RVs.
The road to the hot springs is a dirt road, but it’s accessible by sedans when the weather is dry.
One thing to note is that this hot spring’s water felt lukewarm for chilly days. Therefore, it’s best enjoyed in milder weather.
And don’t forget to bring plenty of drinking water and your essentials, as there are no amenities nearby.
Here’s the map with the exact location to make it easier to find!
Paid Tecopa Hot Springs Resorts
If you prefer a more controlled hot springs experience, Tecopa is home to several paid resorts.
Tecopa Hot Springs Resort, Tecopa Palms Therapeutic Hot Springs Resort and Delight’s Hot Springs Resort all offer soaking pools filled with the same silky mineral-rich geothermal water.
These resorts provide 24-hour access to the pools for guests staying overnight. Some offer cabins for rent, RV hookups, and on-site dining.
Local Eats
Tecopa might be a small town, but it doesn’t skimp on great food options.
Cafe Culture and Vegan Options
Stop by The Kit Fox Cafe, a local cafe that offers extensive vegan options. Some great vegan menu items are BLT, biscuit sandwiches, soups, and even BBQ wings, along with all the coffee beverages.
After a day of soaking in the springs, there’s no better way to recharge than with a comforting plant-based meal.
China Ranch Date Farm: A Sweet Stop
After a long soak, a visit to the China Ranch Date Farm is a must!
Located about 7 miles from the free Tecopa Hot Springs, they offer the best vegan date shake I’ve ever had.
The drive to the farm is a scenic journey worth savoring. You’ll pass towering sand cliffs and stunning rock formations before entering an oasis filled with lush tropical palm trees.
Once you arrive, take a moment to explore this beautiful desert oasis.
It’s the perfect spot to pick up fresh dates for your travels or to relax and soak in the surroundings.
At the end of the parking lot, you’ll find the China Ranch Trail. It is family-friendly and is well worth the hike.
This easy trail is a real desert adventure and showcases the unique flora of the area.
Exploring More in Tecopa
For those seeking adventure, Dumont Dunes offers thrilling opportunities for ATV rides. You can race across the sandy terrain and experience the exhilarating freedom of off-roading.
If you’re into rock hounding, you are in luck!
By Dumont Dunes is Sperry Wash. It is known for its unique geological formations and an abundance of interesting rocks and crystals waiting to be discovered.
You might be lucky to find Tecopa Opal!
From stargazing to exploring the wonders of Death Valley, the area is packed with endless outdoor activities.
After a day filled with adventure, returning to the soothing waters of Tecopa Hot Springs provides the perfect contrast between rugged exploration and peaceful relaxation.
Nearby Attractions and Essentials
Tecopa is also close to the town of Pahrump, about 35 miles away. You’ll find conveniences like grocery stores and gas stations.
Interestingly, Pahrump is also known for its legal brothels. It is often referred to as ranches, such as Sheri’s Ranch and the Chicken Ranch.
While this industry is part of Pahrump’s economy, the town also offers wineries and scenic views. It’s a unique desert stop for travelers.
Final Thoughts
A trip to Tecopa Hot Springs sooths your body and soul! The peace in the desert helps you reconnect with nature.
You can choose the free public pond, pool, or one of the established resorts. The silky water and natural surroundings invite you to slow down and embrace the simple bliss of desert living.
And with spots like the China Date Farm and local vegan-friendly cafes, Tecopa is a well-rounded experience. What a unique corner of California for relaxation and discovery.
Have you been to Tecopa, California? Are you ready to experience the magic of Tecopa Hot Springs for yourself? Share your experience below in the comment section. I would love to hear from you!
If you’re a fan of natural hot springs, be sure to check out my blog on Wild Willy’s Hot Springs in Mammoth Lakes. Another stunning natural pool to enjoy in the beauty of the Eastern Sierra.
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Photo credit:
- “Dumont Dunes 1033a” by DB’s travels is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 ↩︎
- “Welcome to Pahrump, Nevada (9365852795)” by Ken Lund from Las Vegas, Nevada, USA is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 ↩︎
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