Dangerously Hot — Not Safe for Soaking
Devils Kitchen reaches 203°F, far above safe soaking levels. Contact with this water will cause severe burns. Look for cooled downstream pools or view from a safe distance only.
File:Lassen Volcanic National Park, Devils Kitchen, August 2020-3840.jpg — cc by-sa 4.0
Devils Kitchen erupts at 203°F within Lassen Volcanic National Park, requiring a challenging 1.6-mile hike to reach one of the park's most dramatic hydrothermal displays featuring active geysers and fumaroles.
The spring sits at 6,300 feet elevation in the park's remote Warner Valley section, where superheated water and steam rise from the ground in spectacular columns. The hike traverses through volcanic terrain, past geothermal vents, and around colorful mineral deposits that stain the landscape in yellows and oranges.
History of Devils Kitchen
Devils Kitchen formed through the same volcanic processes that created Lassen Peak and the park's entire hydrothermal system, which has evolved for millennia. The feature demonstrates the ongoing geothermal activity that makes Lassen one of the few places in the continental US with active volcanism.
The spring lies at the end of the Warner Valley Trail, accessible from the Chester-Warner Valley Road. Best visited in summer and fall when snow melts and the trail is clear. The area receives over 200 inches of annual snowfall, making winter access difficult. Stay on marked trails—the ground around thermal features can collapse without warning.
Is Devils Kitchen worth visiting?
Best for
- Viewing dramatic geothermal features
- Overnight camping trips
Devils Kitchen is best appreciated as a dramatic geothermal feature rather than a place to soak.
Annual Precip: 46.7 in
Annual Snow: 202.7 in
December
Air 30°F · Water 203°F · +173° contrast
January
Air 31°F · Water 203°F · +172° contrast
February
Air 31°F · Water 203°F · +172° contrast
December offers 37°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
37.4°F
(3.0°C)
Measured Sep 09, 1981
The water at Devils Kitchen is slightly acidic (pH 6.7) with 49 mg/L total dissolved solids.
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
Higher mineral concentration for therapeutic soaking
May support bone density and joint health
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
Overview
Warner Valley campground is a limited development facility in the south eastern area of the park. It has vault toilets and potable water spigots. Numerous trails can be accessed from the campground.
Recreation
Hiking trails accessible from the campground
Facilities
Vault toilets - seasonal
Natural Features
Lassen Volcanic national park is known for its volcanic history, as well as its diversity of plants and animals. It contains 300 active volcanic domes, as well as many hydrotherma...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Warner Valley Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
USGS Quad: MT. HARKNESS 15 · PP 492: 34.0 · Circ 790: 40.0 · NOAA: 5.0 · AMS Map: SUSANVILLE
What is the water temperature at Devils Kitchen?
Devils Kitchen has a water temperature of 203°F (95°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Devils Kitchen located?
Devils Kitchen is located in Plumas County, California at 6,300 feet elevation, near Chester. Coordinates: 40.4400°N, 121.4340°W.
How do I get to Devils Kitchen?
Devils Kitchen has Hike road access, with the nearest road being Chester-Warner Valley Road (1.6 mi from the road).
Is Devils Kitchen free to visit?
Devils Kitchen has Open access. It is managed by National Park Service.
Can I camp near Devils Kitchen?
Yes, Warner Valley Campground is located nearby (2.1 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Devils Kitchen?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 6.7 (slightly acidic). Total dissolved solids measure 49 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at Devils Kitchen?
The water at Devils Kitchen reaches 203°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. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Devils Kitchen crowded?
Devils Kitchen sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Devils Kitchen?
Essentials for Devils Kitchen: 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.