Big Caliente Hot Springs, Natural hot springs in Los Padres National Forest, California, US

Big Caliente Hot Springs is a system of thermal pools in Los Padres National Forest with several natural and constructed soaking areas that emerge from a hillside. The three main pools reach temperatures around 46 degrees Celsius (115 Fahrenheit) and flow into basins lined with concrete and stone in the mountain landscape.

The sources record no tribal use or ceremonial history for these springs. The site lies in the Los Padres National Forest, reached by a 13.3-mile (21.4 km) route with many switchbacks, or by a gravel road up Romero Canyon that washes out and becomes undrivable; a four-wheel drive vehicle or motorcycle is recommended. Little Caliente, 4.8 miles (7.7 km) away at 1,600 feet (490 m), is reached by heading north at Juncal Campground.

The water carries soda compounds, and the three pools are fed by separate springs: two sit at 115 °F (46 °C) and a third lies across the creek. Bathers adjust the diversion valves at the upper pool to set the temperature, and the lower pool beside the creek offers a cooler alternative.

Access is by a 13.3-mile (21.4 km) hike with many switchbacks, or by driving the gravel road up Romero Canyon, which washes out and can become undrivable; a four-wheel drive vehicle or motorcycle is recommended. The springs sit at 34°32.353′N 119°33.876′W, and Little Caliente lies 4.8 miles (7.7 km) north via Juncal Campground at 1,600 feet (490 m).

A second soaking pool sits below the spring source beside the creek, and a third lies across the creek, fed by a separate hot spring that also emerges at 115 °F (46 °C). The water is rich in soda compounds.