I recently hiked down to the Hot Springs. The Creek is really high, probably because of the recent warm weather. The tube which was rigged to assist in crossing has deflated, and can't be ridden, and the water is ice cold again. By wading and pulling myself along the rope, I could barely make it to the other side. This rope could break at any time, or somebody could lose their grip, so I consider this crossing to be hazardous as long as the water is so high. If you aren't a strong swimmer, I suggest waiting a while before coming down. Or, using the trail which comes down from the Lake Arrowhead back road.
There wasn't a lot of trash, and just a few people down there.