At 180°F, the source water at Big Bend Hot Springs is hot enough to cause burns. Some hot springs this hot have cooler side pools or downstream areas suitable for soaking — always test the water temperature before entering.
Big Bend Hot Springs surges at a scalding 180 degrees Fahrenheit from volcanic terrain at just 1,644 feet elevation, creating one of Shasta County's most powerful thermal discharges.
The spring sits a mere 25 feet from Shot Gun Road in a heavily timbered landscape that receives 56 inches of annual precipitation and accumulates over 81 inches of snow. The extremely hot discharge creates steam and thermal mineral deposits visible from the roadside, marking an obvious geothermal feature in the landscape.
History of Big Bend Hot Springs
The spring emerges from volcanic bedrock underlying the region, where circulating groundwater reaches extreme temperatures due to proximity to hot igneous rocks. The 121-degree temperature rise above ambient marks one of the region's most active geothermal systems, concentrated along structural features that guide water circulation.
Roadside access via Shot Gun Road makes this spring easily visited. The extreme water temperature requires caution; approach carefully and never immerse in this dangerously hot water. Winter visits offer dramatic contrast to the landscape's heavy snow cover. Camp 4 Group Campground, 23.8 kilometers away, provides the nearest developed camping.
Is Big Bend Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Easy day trips
Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Big Bend Hot Springs is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and easy day trips.
Monthly Climate
42°Jan
44°Feb
47°Mar
54°Apr
63°May
73°Jun
81°Jul
80°Aug
72°Sep
60°Oct
49°Nov
42°Dec
Annual Precip: 56.2 inAnnual Snow: 81.4 in
Best Time to Visit
DecemberAir 42°F · Water 180°F · +139° contrast
JanuaryAir 42°F · Water 180°F · +138° contrast
FebruaryAir 44°F · Water 180°F · +136° contrast
December offers 40°F more contrast than July
Nearby Camping
Camp 4 Group Campground14.8 mi away
Overview
This group site is nestled in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest on the Upper McCloud River, popular for its three stunning waterfalls.Camp 4 is typically open from mid-spring through mid-fall, offering primitive accommodations near a variety of recreational activities and magnificent scenery.Note: This is not Camp 4 in Yosemite National Park. Learn more about the Camp 4 daily lottery in Yosemite National Park.
Recreation
During the late spring, summer and early fall, the McCloud Riv...
USGS Quad: BIG BEND 15 · PP 492: 24.0 · Circ 790: 39.0 · NOAA: 6.0 · AMS Map: ALTURAS
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Big Bend Hot Springs?
Big Bend Hot Springs has a water temperature of 180°F (82°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Big Bend Hot Springs located?
Big Bend Hot Springs is located in Shasta County, California at 1,644 feet elevation, near Burney. Coordinates: 41.0250°N, 121.9240°W.
How do I get to Big Bend Hot Springs?
Big Bend Hot Springs has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being Shot Gun Road (82 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Big Bend Hot Springs?
Yes, Camp 4 Group Campground is located nearby (14.8 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Big Bend Hot Springs?
The water at Big Bend Hot Springs reaches 180°F, which can cause severe burns. Do not enter the source pool directly — look for cooled side pools or downstream areas where the water has cooled to a safe temperature. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Big Bend Hot Springs crowded?
Big Bend Hot Springs is accessible from a paved road, making it easy to reach. Weekends and holidays may be busier — consider visiting on a weekday for a quieter experience.
What should I bring to Big Bend Hot Springs?
Essentials for Big Bend Hot Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in. The water is over 110°F — test the temperature before entering and watch for scalding near the source.