Davis Soda Spring

Lake County County, California · Near Clearlake
38.9950°N, 122.6420°W · 1,621 ft
73°F 1,621 ft Short Walk Camping nearby (20.4 mi)

Davis Soda Spring flows at 73°F from Lake County's volcanic terrain, emerging 13 degrees above the region's ambient temperature. The spring's name references its carbonated character, indicating the presence of dissolved gases in the thermal water rising through volcanic rock.

The spring sits at 1,621 feet elevation, requiring a short walk of roughly 385 feet from the nearest access point through landscape shaped by extensive volcanic activity. The setting reflects millions of years of magmatic and geothermal processes that continue to heat groundwater throughout this region.

History of Davis Soda Spring

Davis Soda Spring occupies terrain marked by Lake County's significant volcanic history, where thermal features emerge from deep fractures in volcanic basement rock. The carbonation indicates water chemistry influenced by volcanic minerals and gases enriching the groundwater system.

The spring is accessible via short walk from nearby roads, with elevation ranging over 1,600 feet in Lake County's backcountry. Little Stony Campground sits 32.9 kilometers away with reservable sites. Visit spring through fall when weather permits access to the more remote volcanic terrain surrounding the spring.

Is Davis Soda Spring worth visiting?

Best for

  • Overnight camping trips
Davis Soda Spring is well suited for overnight camping trips.
Monthly Climate
46°
Jan
48°
Feb
50°
Mar
56°
Apr
63°
May
72°
Jun
78°
Jul
77°
Aug
72°
Sep
63°
Oct
52°
Nov
45°
Dec
Annual Precip: 25.4 in Annual Snow: 4.7 in
Best Time to Visit
December Air 45°F · Water 73°F · +28° contrast
January Air 46°F · Water 73°F · +27° contrast
February Air 48°F · Water 73°F · +25° contrast
December offers 33°F more contrast than July
Nearby Camping
Little Stony 20.4 mi away

Overview This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site.Once on-site, you are able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature.In order to utilize Scan & Pay on site, you will need to first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your arrival as some remote area...

Reservable Yes
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
What to Bring
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear Nearby camping at Little Stony
Trash bag Pack out what you pack in
References
USGS Quad: (CLEARLAKE HIGHLANDS 7.5) · NOAA: 1.0 · AMS Map: SANTA ROSA
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Davis Soda Spring?
Davis Soda Spring has a water temperature of 73°F (23°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Davis Soda Spring located?
Davis Soda Spring is located in Lake County, California at 1,621 feet elevation, near Clearlake. Coordinates: 38.9950°N, 122.6420°W.
How do I get to Davis Soda Spring?
Davis Soda Spring has Short Walk road access (385 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Davis Soda Spring?
Yes, Little Stony is located nearby (20.4 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Davis Soda Spring?
Davis Soda Spring is generally safe for soaking at its recorded 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 Davis Soda Spring crowded?
Davis Soda Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Davis Soda Spring?
Essentials for Davis Soda Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.
Temperature
73°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 73°F (23°C)
Avg Air Temp 60°F
Above Ambient +13°F
Mild soaking conditions March
Access
Road Access Short Walk
Distance to Road 385 ft