Deep Creek Hot Springs facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Deep Creek Hot Springs |
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 Deep Creek Hot Springs
Location in California
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| Location | San Bernardino County, California, USA |
| Nearest city | Hesperia |
| Governing body | San Bernardino National Forest, United States Forest Service |
Deep Creek Hot Springs, often called DCHS, are natural hot springs found in the northern Mojave Desert part of the San Bernardino National Forest. They are located near Hesperia in San Bernardino County, Southern California. These springs offer a unique outdoor experience where warm water bubbles up from the Earth.
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What is Deep Creek Hot Springs?
The springs are located in the desert foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains. This area is a "rain shadow" region. This means the mountains block most of the rain clouds. So, the area around the springs is quite dry.
The springs are next to Deep Creek, which is a branch of the Mojave River. This area has many large rocks and a special riverside habitat. Here, you can find different types of plants. These include desert shrubs, mountain chaparral, and even some conifer trees.
An endangered species called the Southwestern Arroyo Toad lives along Deep Creek. This makes the area very important for wildlife.
Fun Things to Do at Deep Creek
Deep Creek Hot Springs offers both hot and cold water for bathing. The hot springs are naturally warm, while Deep Creek itself provides cool water. This site is looked after by the San Bernardino National Forest. A group of volunteers, called the Deep Creek Volunteers, also helps keep the area clean and safe.
It's very important to know that you should never drink water from the creek or the hot pools. Also, try to avoid getting the water in your mouth or nose. This is because the water can contain germs that might make you very sick. Always bring your own clean drinking water.
Hiking to the Springs
There are three main paths you can take to reach the Hot Springs. Each trail offers a different adventure:
- Bowen Ranch / Freedom Trail: This is the shortest way to get there. It's about two miles one way.
- Bradford Ridge Path: This trail is a bit longer, about 2.6 miles one way, starting from the south.
- Pacific Crest Trail: The famous PCT actually passes right through Deep Creek Hot Springs! You can reach the springs from the Lake Arrowhead area using the PCT. This route is about 6 miles one way.
Rules for Visiting
To keep Deep Creek Hot Springs safe and clean for everyone, there are some important rules:
- The area is closed from sundown to sunrise. This means no one is allowed to be there at night.
- You cannot camp within one mile of Deep Creek.
- No fires, campfires, or stoves are allowed in the Deep Creek area. This helps prevent wildfires.
- Glass containers are not allowed within one mile of Deep Creek. This prevents broken glass from hurting people or animals.
- Always take all your trash with you when you leave. "Pack it in, pack it out!"
- Deep Creek is a special "Wild Trout Stream." This means there are rules for fishing:
