Benton Hot Springs - California
Exploratography Date: February 04 of 2014
Established in the early 1860s, Benton was born with the discovery of silver in the nearby Blind Springs Hills and White Mountains. It was quite the busy supply town for the mines, from about 1862 to 1889. A post office was established here in 1886. The town takes its name from Senator Thomas Hart Benton, a popular politician during his day. As the precious ore up in the mines began to play out, the population of Benton began to decline. Folks moved off to search for their fortunes elsewhere.
The hot springs, however, remained. They’ve been around for thousands of years and hopefully will be around for thousands more. The water has been measured at around 140 °F. That is HOT.
A handful of residents call Benton Hot Springs home today and there are some interesting old buildings in various stages of preservation in the small community. The town is located on California State Route 120, approximately 32 miles north of Bishop via U.S. Route 6. Camping and a Bed & Breakfast are available, a quick internet search will direct you to this great little town.
The old and abandoned always catch my eye.
Looks like this little building was used as a jail, maybe during the days when the mines were running and the town was booming.
A quick walk around town presented many picture opportunities. As often happens, my itinerary just had too much planned, so it was back in the truck and off to the next spot. I’d like to return and stay overnight at the campground on my next trip, I’m sure there’s plenty more to see in Benton.
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