- The Forest Service confirmed that a body was discovered in one of the tubs at Miracle Hot Springs on Feb. 17
- It was the second time in the past 18 months that deaths were reported in the same area after a body was found on October 17, 2022
- The victims have not been identified yet but the forest department is taking extra precautions
A California hot spring in the Sequoia National Forest beloved by those who claim to use it for “healing minerals” is facing closure after a body was found floating in the water.
The Forest Service confirmed that a body was discovered in one of the tubs at Miracle Hot Springs on Feb. 17.
It was the second time in the past 18 months that deaths were reported in the same area after a body was found on October 17, 2022.
The victims have not been identified, but the forest department is taking extra precautions despite protests from the spring operators, who have promised a “civil disobedience” protest.
“In the event of a second death attributed in part to the hot springs, the area will remain closed until a sustainable, long-term solution is found,” said District Ranger Al Watson.
A California hot spring in the Sequoia National Forest beloved by those who claim to use it for “healing minerals” is facing closure after a body was found floating in the water
Officials had already dismantled the tubs after the 2022 death, but they had been rebuilt without officials' permission.
Winter and spring flooding on the Kern River, where the springs are located, made the area inaccessible until the river levers gave way.
The closure will prohibit access to the springs, tubs and anything else in the area, which sits at an elevation of 2,300 feet in the forest about 150 miles north of Los Angeles.
The nonprofit that operates the springs has worked to keep them open, citing the six minerals that help “heal our minds and bodies.”
They claim their mission is to “restore and manage the historic and healing Miracle Hot Springs.” “We connect our community through inspiring experiences in nature that improve quality of life, health and well-being.”
“The closure of natural spaces, especially those as innocuous as hot springs on seemingly public lands, constitutes an infringement on our right to enjoy nature without causing harm or casualties,” they wrote in a Facebook post published Tuesday .
They noted that although there are dangers in using the springs, it should not prevent people from healing.
The Forest Service confirmed that a body was discovered in one of the tubs at Miracle Hot Springs on Feb. 17
It was the second time in the past 18 months that deaths were reported in the same area after a body was found on October 17, 2022
Officials had previously dismantled the tubs after the 2022 death, but they had been rebuilt without officials' approval
“Risk is an inherent part of life and liberty.” Individuals evaluate and take risks in every aspect of daily life, from walking across a room to engaging in recreational activities. “The possibility of injury or death in a natural setting does not justify blanket closure of public areas,” they wrote.
“We will not comply!” “The irony is palpable,” they added.
“In your claim to protection, the only victims are those created by your enforcement actions.” The logic is fundamentally flawed and reveals a disturbing willingness to harm those you claim to protect. This is not protection; It is a violent enforcement of will, a clear violation of the principles of freedom and self-determination.”
Sandy Flat Campground, located right near the hot springs, remains open, authorities said.