Spotlight On:
Keough’s Hot Springs
As part of our ongoing series, we are interviewing people of interest in the community who are having a positive impact on the lives around them.
This time we are interviewing Suzi from Keough’s Hot Springs!
Hi Suzi, can you provide a brief history of Keough’s Hot Springs and its significance in the local community?
The site first has historical significance, since its geothermal spring water was used for medicinal and healing purposes. This traditional use stretches back hundreds of years. With the settlement of the Owens Valley in the late 1800s and with the land ethic of private ownership the springs passed into the hands of those who used the surrounding land for agriculture and ranching. (Longyear and 4-C Ranches). In 1919 the property was purchased by Phillip Keough, an Eastern Sierra pioneer. A leader in civic affairs and owner of the City Market in Bishop, Keough had a vision for a first-class health resort.
During its heyday in the 1920 and 30s it was just that, a complete health and leisure resort, where visitors could not only soak their aches and cares away, but also fish, dine, dance and stay in a cabin. Keough’s Hot Springs became the chief social institution for the people of the Owens Valley.
Hundreds of valley residents flocked to celebrate important holidays at Keough’s. Many recall the barbecues, dancing and fireworks that characterized the 4th of July and the Easter Egg hunts that were held on the grounds each spring.
Local children learned to swim at the end of the school year parties held at Keough’s from 1933 to 1937, when Civilian Conservation Corps camps were located nearby, a big night out for the lads was traveling to Keough’s to dance or for a ball game. Boxing matches were also held at Keough’s and movie stars from Hollywood would vacation at Keough’s.
Later, Richard and Liz Denniss, took over the lease and have run it as a private health spa. Liz Denniss had come from a 30-year career in Hollywood and Dick Denniss had a background in mining and millwork, that was essential to the job of renovating the swimming pool and other buildings.
In September of 1998, the Brown family of Bishop purchased the site. While open to the public, the updating and renovations are always on going. Keough’s Hot Springs will become a premiere recreational destination in the Eastern Sierra.
What are the various amenities and services offered there?
Besides swimming, we’re mostly known for camping. We have 10 water and electric sites featuring 30amp electric service. These sites are nestled among the foothills of the Eastern Sierra and local trees, and most are on well-maintained grass. We also have a number of dry camping sites available.
How long can a person stay there are what are the rates?
There is a two week maximum stay. Fire pits are not supplied for these sites at this time, and use of your own above ground fire pit is permitted.
Rates:
W/E Sites *$40.00 per night
Dry Sites *$35.00 per night
Rates are for a maximum of 6 people per site and 1 vehicle per site. Extra Vehicle – $10.
Tent Camping:
Our rustic tent cabins are designed for 2 people. The nightly rate is $160.00+tax = $179.20/night. Extra person – $30.00+tax. This includes 2 entrances into the hot springs, shower tokens, towels and 1 bundle of firewood per night.
Are there any specific health benefits associated with the mineral-rich waters of Keough’s Hot Springs?
With the 27 different minerals in the water it does provide some healing benefits to joints and muscles.
What types of snack does the snack bar offer?
Our Snack bar offers Hot Dogs, Polish Dogs, Chili Dogs, Nachos, Soft Pretzels, Ice-cream, Shakes, Smoothies, Candy, Soft drinks.
How does Keough’s Hot Springs maintain its facilities and ensure a high standard of cleanliness?
We have several employees that maintain the facility to cleaning bathrooms, the outside grounds and the pools are drained every Tuesday and scrubbed down rinsed and then filled back up.
Are there any plans for expansion or development of Keough’s Hot Springs in the future?
There are no plans to for expansion or development at this time.
Finally, how would you summarize the unique appeal and overall experience that Keough’s Hot Springs offers to visitors?
It’s a historic site that everyone enjoys whether it is swimming laps, playing in the pool, soaking in the hot pool, relaxing in the sun, picnicking on the grounds. Our spray bar that is part of our cooling system is liked by some and disliked by others. We also offer water aerobics classes 4 times per week and is open to the public.
A special thank you to Suzi for answering our questions!
Visit Keough’s Hot Springs at 800 Keough Hot Springs Rd, Bishop, CA 93514
Hours are:
M-W-Th-F:11:00 AM-6 PM
Sat-Sun :9:00 AM-6:00 PM
Closed every Tuesday
