Matilija Hot Springs

What is the location of Matilija Hot Springs?

The location of Matilija Hot Springs is in Matilija Canyon within Los Padres National Forest, situated in Ventura County near the town of Ojai, California. The hot springs lie approximately 6 miles northwest of Ojai and about 90 miles northwest of Los Angeles. The geographic coordinates of Matilija Hot Springs are 34°29′33″N latitude and 119°18′20″W longitude. The site is accessible by taking US-101 North from Los Angeles to CA-33 North toward Ojai, then following signs to Matilija Canyon.

What is the access type of Matilija Hot Springs?

The access type of Matilija Hot Springs is restricted to limited access by reservation only. The site is currently closed to public access without prior booking. Visitors must make arrangements in advance to gain entry, and a small fee is charged, with the exact cost varying depending on the caretaker's terms at the time of reservation.

What is the temperature range of Matilija Hot Springs?

The temperature range of Matilija Hot Springs spans from 98°F to 116°F. This geothermal variation supports both moderate and high-temperature soaking experiences, depending on the specific pool and water source within the site.

What types of pools are found at Matilija Hot Springs?

The types of pools found at Matilija Hot Springs include historical swimming pools and natural stone pools. The site contains 22 individual hot and cold springs that feed into several small pools distributed throughout the canyon. Some of these structures were historically built and others formed naturally.

What is the mineral composition of Matilija Hot Springs?

The mineral composition of Matilija Hot Springs is high in sulfur and includes the presence of hydrogen sulfide gas. The waters also contain calcium, magnesium, and sulfur, contributing to their therapeutic properties. One of the springs, known as the Lithia spring, is notably alkaline in nature.

What is the smell intensity at Matilija Hot Springs?

The smell intensity at Matilija Hot Springs is strong due to the presence of hydrogen sulfide gas. The emitted odor resembles rotten eggs, which is characteristic of sulfur-rich geothermal environments.

What facilities are available at Matilija Hot Springs?

The facilities at Matilija Hot Springs historically included a hotel, cabins, a bathhouse, horse stables, a camping area, and a swimming pool. Some of these structures were destroyed by past fires and floods, and there are currently no active on-site facilities available for public use.

What accommodations exist at Matilija Hot Springs?

The accommodations at Matilija Hot Springs once featured a historical hotel and several cabins. These structures are not currently operating and are not available for overnight stays or lodging reservations.

What is the clothing policy at Matilija Hot Springs?

The clothing policy at Matilija Hot Springs is clothing optional. Visitors who gain access by reservation may choose whether or not to wear bathing attire while using the pools.

What is the best season to visit Matilija Hot Springs?

The best season to visit Matilija Hot Springs is during the fall and spring months. These seasons offer favorable weather conditions for hiking, soaking, and exploring the surrounding wilderness areas.

What are the nearby attractions to Matilija Hot Springs?

The nearby attractions to Matilija Hot Springs include Matilija Creek, Matilija Wilderness, and Matilija Sandstone formations. Additional points of interest involve Sespe Hot Springs, hiking trails in Los Padres National Forest, and cultural destinations in downtown Ojai such as the Ojai Valley Trail, wellness retreats, wine tasting venues, and the Ojai Certified Farmers’ Market.

What is the official website for Matilija Hot Springs?

No official information source for Matilija Hot Springs is hosted on internet.