Nestled in the vast Mojave Desert, Tecopa, California, has long been known for its natural hot springs, remote beauty, and star-studded night skies. Once a well-kept secret among desert wanderers and hot spring enthusiasts, Tecopa has drawn visitors seeking tranquility, rejuvenation, and a break from the modern world. However, traveler reviews paint a more complex picture of this small desert town, revealing a place where rustic charm meets neglect, and where relaxation sometimes clashes with poor maintenance and unpredictable experiences.
Tecopa remains a unique and sought-after retreat for those willing to embrace its quirks. The town’s hot springs offer undeniable natural beauty and therapeutic benefits, but visitor experiences vary dramatically based on where they choose to stay. While some guests cherish Tecopa’s rustic charm and quiet solitude, others encounter frustration with customer service, inconsistent maintenance, and at times, unwelcoming attitudes from certain establishments. Those planning a trip to Tecopa should carefully research their accommodations to ensure they align with their expectations. Whether it’s the warmth of the waters or the unpredictability of service, one thing is certain—Tecopa leaves an impression that travelers won’t soon forget.
This article compiles insights from TripAdvisor reviews for Tecopa Hot Springs dating back to 2019, offering an unfiltered look at visitor experiences. The opinions expressed reflect the firsthand accounts of travelers and do not represent the views of TecopaCabana. Whether staying at a private resort, a campground, or soaking in the free natural pools, guests have had widely varied experiences. Below, we break down traveler insights into Tecopa’s most well-known hot springs and accommodations.
Tecopa Hot Springs Campground
Travelers have had mixed experiences at the Tecopa Hot Springs Campground (pictured above) with concerns about safety, noise, and maintenance. One visitor in April 2022 described the campground as “kind of confusing,” with multiple camping areas that appeared like “junked-up old trailer parks.” Another traveler from the same month warned campers to “camp here with caution,” citing unfriendly residents, inconsiderate travelers, and a lack of rule enforcement. They described an incident where a group of loud campers refused to turn down their music and also mentioned an elderly resident being attacked by an unleashed dog, with management refusing to intervene.
Some visitors noted that the hot springs at the campground were enjoyable, but the facilities were lacking. A reviewer from October 2020 stated that the bathrooms were “pretty dirty” with “a broken, leaking toilet tank” and “a gross half bar of used soap on the sink” during a time when COVID-19 was a concern.
Despite these negatives, the hot springs themselves were still a draw. A traveler in January 2020 said, “The best manmade soaking pool is the government one at the campground. $9 for as long as you want to stay.” The price has since increased to $10, and the pools are now only open from 7am-10pm.
Tecopa Hot Springs Resort
The Tecopa Hot Springs Resort received more positive feedback, especially from visitors looking for a quiet getaway. A traveler in March 2024 described the resort as “a tranquil and naturally beautiful getaway” perfect for decompression, highlighting its “tiny town charm” and its proximity to attractions like China Ranch Date Farm and a local rock labyrinth.
The resort offers private hot springs inside small adobe buildings. While the accommodations were described as “quaint and rustic—not plush by any means”, the beds were comfortable, and plenty of fresh linens were provided. A reviewer in February 2025 recommended the resort as “a great place to take your love interest for some romantic alone time in nature” and praised the clear night skies and peaceful desert surroundings.
Delight’s Hot Spring Resort
Many visitors had positive experiences at Delight’s Hot Spring Resort, especially those looking for private soaking areas. A reviewer in March 2020 appreciated the “rustic but clean and private space” of the individual hot spring rooms. They noted that “the water was so hot you could not stay in very long” but loved it so much they returned for a second visit.
Another visitor in February 2020 compared options, noting that Delight’s offered the best tubs but had a $35 day pass, whereas the county-run Tecopa Hot Springs cost only $10. While some travelers found it worth the cost for the private experience, others preferred the natural pools of Borehole Spring.
Borehole Spring & Natural Mud Baths
Borehole Spring, the natural hot springs and mud baths located on BLM land just outside of town had highly polarized reviews. Some visitors loved the experience, while others found it unsanitary and unappealing. A fire in February 2025 caused extensive damage to the vole habitat there and visitors are advised to soak with caution since tests have found E. coli in the water.
A visitor in January 2022 enjoyed the natural mud baths, describing them as “a pond-like hot spring in the middle of the desert” where the bottom ranged from “gravelly, to sandy, to silty mud”. They appreciated the natural exfoliation, saying they left with “soft skin, smooth heels, and relaxed muscles.” However, they noted warnings about mud mites and advised against submerging one’s head.
In contrast, some travelers found the natural hot springs unclean. A reviewer in September 2022 observed that there were “no bathrooms, out houses, etc.” near the water and overheard a father telling his daughter to “pee in the water.” They expressed concern about bacterial contamination, mud mites, and even the potential for contracting meningitis, stating, “Inyo County knows of bathers that have this disease that originated from this contaminated water.” That information was posted without any evidence, so take it with a grain of salt.
Others appreciated the natural beauty but found issues with bugs. A visitor in May 2022 loved the “stunning desert setting” but left early when they ran into the area’s famous bombers, “biting flies that made me pretty uneasy.”
Tecopa Palms RV Park
One of the more polarizing locations in Tecopa due to a strict ban on alcohol and cannabis consumption, Tecopa Palms “Therapeutics” RV Park, has received a mix of glowing endorsements and strongly worded warnings from visitors. Some travelers praise its cleanliness, friendly atmosphere, and well-maintained amenities, while others recount troubling interactions with the owners, Ray and Yvonne.
The owners claim they have a federal exemption from adding bromine to their water, meaning it is 100% natural. Whatever you do – don’t plan to go to Borehole Spring if you’re staying here as they do not appreciate the cross contamination.
For some, the park is a “spotless” and “family-friendly” retreat. Thomas C. (Sept. 2024) described it as an “oasis in the middle of nowhere,” emphasizing the clear pools, well-kept RV spaces, and extra amenities like a dog run, laundromat, and Sunday breakfast. Roberta B. (Apr. 2024) echoed this sentiment, calling the campground “extremely clean” with “wonderful pools” and an exceptional laundry room.
Others, however, had vastly different experiences, describing encounters with the owners as hostile and aggressive. Olive K. (Feb. 2025) detailed a distressing visit in which Yvonne, one of the owners, made inappropriate comments and falsely accused a competing hot spring of illicit activity. The review recounts an incident where the owner’s behavior escalated into “belligerent and hostile” harassment, leading to the guest being trespassed from the property. CHope8 (Jan. 2024) shared a similar experience, describing Ray as “misogynistic” and recounting how they were abruptly told to leave after questioning additional fees upon check-in. Sandi H. (Jan. 2025) described a “hot and cold” experience, where the owner quoted an unexpectedly high price and then drove off mid-conversation, leaving them in the parking lot.
Despite the starkly contrasting reviews, one thing remains clear: Tecopa Palms RV Park is a place that leaves a strong impression—whether positive or negative. Those considering a stay should be aware of the unpredictability in service and management.
Finding the Right Fit
Tecopa offers a mix of experiences depending on where travelers stay and what they’re looking for. Delight’s Hot Spring Resort and Tecopa Hot Springs Resort received the most positive feedback for their private soaking experiences, while Borehole Spring and Tecopa Hot Springs Campground had more complaints regarding cleanliness, safety, and maintenance.
Visitors noted that driving through Tecopa doesn’t do the area justice, and those who took the time to explore beyond the surface found beauty in its remote desert landscapes, hot springs, and night skies. While some travelers appreciated the quiet charm of the town, others felt it was rundown, with limited amenities and inconsistent upkeep.
Ultimately, Tecopa is best suited for travelers seeking a rustic, quiet escape into nature, but those expecting luxury accommodations or highly maintained facilities may be disappointed.
More information about Tecopa on TripAdvisor can be found here. This article is not sponsored content.
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