Santa Barbara backcountry, California
Little Caliente Hot Springs
Little Caliente Hot Springs is a set of small rock-lined pools near the end of a dirt road in the Santa Barbara backcountry. The nearby picnic area is closed and the road is shut to vehicles through at least September 15, 2027 because of storm damage.
Temporarily closedClosed by the Forest Service through September 15, 2027, after storm damage. The road is closed to cars.Last checked November 2026
- Getting there
- Closed to vehicles; normally a rough dirt road past Pendola and Mono, then a short walk
- Cost and hours
- See current prices and hours on the official site
- Pools
- Several primitive rock-lined pools
- Managed by
- Los Padres National Forest, Santa Barbara Ranger District
Good to know. Roads in this area often wash out after storms.
In any natural hot spring, keep your head above the water. Health officials advise it because of a rare amoeba that can enter through the nose.
New to hot springs? A slow soak is a five-step way to enjoy the water safely.
Something out of date? Let us know and we’ll check it.
Warm water, closer to home
No hot spring nearby?
Warm-water sessions at your own pool, or your community’s, in and around Flagstaff, by request. And there are small water practices you can do at home, in a bath.