Coso Hot Springs

Coso Hot Springs. . , In the 1930s, this billboard directed travelers to the Coso Hot Springs resort, which was 10 miles to the east. , Molten rock, or magma, lies about five miles below the earth's surface. Groundwater percolates through rock fractures, is warmed by heat from the molten rock, and comes to the surface in hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles (steam vents). , American Indians from the Owens Valley and the Kern Valley have used the hot springs as a cultural site for generations. , Ray Gill homesteaded Coso Junction in 1926. He created Gil's Oasis, a grove of large cottonwood trees to the west. , Coso Hot Springs resort closed in the 1940s. The hot springs area is now part of the Naval Weapons Center at China Lake, and is not open to the public. , During the late 1800's and the early years of this century, many people believed that natural hot springs provided relief from a wide variety of ailments. The mineral waters were consumed as a tonic, and the soothing baths eased the pain associated with muscle and bone disorders. , The 1930's advertisement at left proclaims the curative properties of Coso Hot Spring's magnesium and sodium rich waters. , Although most of the old hot springs resorts in California closed their doors many years ago, the recent upsurge in natural health and fitness has sparked renewed interest in hot springs for health and enjoyment. . This historical marker is in Coso Junction in Inyo County California