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Historic Benton    Hot Springs 
Non-Profit

Our Heritage and Mission

Historic Benton Hot Springs, HBHS, is dedicated to preserving the rich history of Benton Hot Springs. Nestled in Blind Spring Valley, our  history is rich in stories of struggles, hard work and dedication.  We strive to keep those stories and buildings preserved for all generations to come.  

HBHS is a 501(3c) nonprofit corporation, whose mission is to preserve and restore the town's cultural and natural properties.  Our key goals include keeping the town accessible to visitors and educating our visitors about the ongoing conservation of this unique environment and sharing the area's rich and fascinating history.

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BUR 21--Packer in front of Wai Wera Hotel, Benton Hot Springs.jpeg
Our History

The valley that Benton Hot Springs is located was part of a natural road long used by indigenous peoples.  The Hot Spring was a stopping point for part of the Fremont-Walker expedition of 1845.  Later, the hot springs sat on the trail that was used to bring cattle from southern California to meet the growing needs of the mining population in the Eastern Sierra.  The location and the hot springs were major factors in establishing the mining town and the development of the area later as a resort.  

Benton  Hot Springs sprang up around 1864 to support the silver mining in the area. Then silver was discovered in Blind Springs Hill and miners poured in and settled near the hot springs.  The hot springs provided ample water for a growing population.  The Blind Spring Mining District yielded high grade silver ore so by 1865, there was over 200 miners located in the area.  As with all mining towns, there were boom and bust periods and Benton was not exempt.  Throughout the 19th century,  the population
fluctuated from a high of 900 people to a low of 50 people at the end of the 
century.  As the 20th century dawned, the town revitalized with the use of the automobile and more leisure time.  Tourists came for the water and to see the natural environment.  Benton Hot Springs never died and continues to thrive today and into the future.  Come connect with the past, wander by the old buildings and read about stories of the men and women who made this town strong. 

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760.933.2493

55045 Highway 120

Benton Ca 93512

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