| Big Caliente Hot Springs | |
| Other Name: | Little Caliente Hot Springs |
| Map: | USA California |
| Relief: | 1 |
| Location: | near Santa Barbara, California |
| Elevation: | 1437feet |
| Coordinates: | 34.5392°N -119.5646°W |
| Hot Spring Type: | geothermal |
| Temperature: | 105F115F |
Big Caliente Hot Springs are a grouping of thermal mineral springs located in the Los Padres National Forest of California.[1]
The hot spring water emerges at 115F from a bluff and flows into a large, deep primitive rock and concrete soaking pool. The temperature of the water can be controlled by adjusting diversion valves. Another primitive soaking pool is located below the spring source, adjacent to the creek. A third soaking pool is located across the creek, with a temperature of 115F, fed by a different hot spring.[2] The water from these hot springs are rich in soda compounds.
The springs are accessed via a 13.3mile hike[3] with many switchbacks. It is possible to drive to the site but it is not recommended as the gravel road tends to wash out and it becomes undrivable.[4] A four-wheel drive vehicle or motorcycle is recommended for the drive up Romero Canyon.[5] The GPS coordinates for Big Caliente Hot Springs are 34.5392°N -152.876°W.
The Little Caliente hot springs are located 4.8miles away at 1600feet. The hot mineral water emerges from the springs at 105F. There are several primitive rock-lined soaking pools. From Big Caliente, head north at Juncal Campground. The GPS coordinates for Little Caliente hot spring are: 34.5405°N -156.176°W. The spring fluctuates between muddy and clear depending on the season.