Crab Cooker Hot Springs

What is the location of Crab Cooker Hot Springs?

Crab Cooker Hot Springs is located in Mammoth Lakes, California. The hot spring sits along Benton Crossing Road, approximately a 10–15 minute drive south of the town center. The geographic coordinates of Crab Cooker Hot Springs are 37°39′46″ N latitude and 118°48′00″ W longitude. The hot spring lies on public land and is accessible via a series of unpaved and unsigned dirt roads branching off Benton Crossing Road. The final approach requires a short hike of approximately 0.2 miles along a rutted doubletrack path. The route includes passage through three cattle gates before a left turn onto a rough dirt road. The area has limited parking and spotty cell service, and access is best suited for 4WD or high-clearance vehicles.

What is the temperature of Crab Cooker Hot Springs?

The temperature of Crab Cooker Hot Springs reaches up to 150°F at the geothermal source. The water flows into a manmade cement soaking tub where the temperature is generally maintained around 105°F. Soakers can adjust the temperature by controlling the flow from the source pipe, allowing for regulation of the water’s heat level within the tub.

What are the pool features of Crab Cooker Hot Springs?

The pool at Crab Cooker Hot Springs consists of a single manmade cement tub. The structure is designed to hold geothermal water diverted from the natural source. The number of pools is limited to one, and the depth of the pool is not specified in the available data. The cement tub allows for temperature adjustments by manipulating the source pipe, enabling users to achieve a comfortable soaking experience.

What is the water composition of Crab Cooker Hot Springs?

The water composition of Crab Cooker Hot Springs is classified as mineral spring water. The geothermal water emerges from underground sources rich in dissolved minerals, which are characteristic of natural hot spring systems. The spring emits a low smell intensity, indicating minimal sulfur content or other strong-smelling compounds.

What is the access type and availability of Crab Cooker Hot Springs?

Crab Cooker Hot Springs is publicly accessible and does not require booking. The hot spring is open year-round and is categorized as hike-in access due to the 0.2-mile trail from the parking area. No entry fee is specified, and the site is available to visitors without prior reservation. The area lacks formal facilities, including bathrooms and trash cans, and visitors must pack out all waste.

What are the clothing and visitor policies at Crab Cooker Hot Springs?

Crab Cooker Hot Springs follows a clothing-optional policy. Visitors may choose whether or not to wear swimwear while using the hot spring. Kid-friendliness and pet policies are not specified in the available data. Accessibility features for individuals with disabilities are also not indicated.

What are the facilities and accommodations at Crab Cooker Hot Springs?

Crab Cooker Hot Springs has no built facilities. There are no bathrooms, trash cans, or developed structures onsite. Camping is not allowed at the hot spring itself, but it is permitted on nearby public land. Visitors must rely on dispersed camping options outside the immediate soaking area. The remote location and lack of amenities require visitors to plan accordingly for self-sufficiency.

What is the parking availability at Crab Cooker Hot Springs?

Parking at Crab Cooker Hot Springs is limited and located at the end of a rough, unpaved road. The parking area is small and may not accommodate large numbers of vehicles. Access to the parking lot requires navigating several unsigned dirt road turns after the third cattle gate on Benton Crossing Road. A high-clearance or 4WD vehicle is recommended due to the rugged terrain.

What is the best season to visit Crab Cooker Hot Springs?

The best season to visit Crab Cooker Hot Springs is not specified in the available data. However, the site remains open year-round, allowing for seasonal visits depending on weather conditions and road accessibility. Visitors should consider snow, mud, or road closures during winter or spring.

What attractions are near Crab Cooker Hot Springs?

Crab Cooker Hot Springs is located near a variety of outdoor attractions. Nearby activities include hiking trails, fishing, mountain biking, photography, bird watching, rock climbing, and stargazing. The hot spring is also close to other geothermal features and hot springs in the region. The town of Mammoth Lakes serves as a nearby base for exploration and is only a short drive away.

Where can more information about Crab Cooker Hot Springs be found?

More information about Crab Cooker Hot Springs can be found on the Outdoor Project website at (https://www.outdoorproject.com/crab-cooker-hot-springs). The site provides additional details and visitor insights for planning a trip to the hot spring.