151°F5,710 ftOpenShort WalkNational Park ServiceCamping nearby (0.7 mi)
Very Hot Source — Use Extreme Caution
At 151°F, the source water at Drakesbad 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.
File:Drakesbad Guest Ranch duplex unit on July 25, 2020.jpg — cc by-sa 4.0
Drakesbad emerges at 151°F from the Warner Valley section of Lassen Volcanic National Park, where thermal waters have supported historic accommodations and naturally heated pools since the late 19th century.
The spring flows at 5,710 feet elevation just 1,200 feet from Chester-Warner Valley Road, feeding the only resort concession within Lassen National Park. Visitors experience naturally heated pools nestled against forested slopes with views into the park's volcanic landscape and access to trails connecting to other thermal features.
History of Drakesbad
Drakesbad's name reflects its historical settlement by European visitors who recognized the value of hot spring tourism. The thermal waters flow from Lassen's ongoing geothermal system, which has sustained human use for over a century—rare for major California hot springs where public access often faces restrictions.
The spring occupies a short-walk distance from Chester-Warner Valley Road, making it the most accessible major thermal feature within Lassen National Park. Historic guest accommodations operate seasonally; reservations are essential. The region receives over 200 inches of annual snow, making winter road access unreliable. Nearby Warner Valley Campground offers seasonal accommodations within 1.1 kilometers.
Is Drakesbad worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Drakesbad is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and overnight camping trips.
Monthly Climate
32°Jan
32°Feb
35°Mar
41°Apr
49°May
60°Jun
68°Jul
68°Aug
61°Sep
50°Oct
38°Nov
31°Dec
Annual Precip: 46.7 inAnnual Snow: 202.7 in
Best Time to Visit
DecemberAir 31°F · Water 151°F · +120° contrast
JanuaryAir 32°F · Water 151°F · +119° contrast
FebruaryAir 32°F · Water 151°F · +119° contrast
December offers 37°F more contrast than August
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature
37.4°F
(3.0°C)Measured Sep 09, 1981
Water ChemistrySampled 1981-09-09
The water at Drakesbad is slightly acidic (pH 6.7) with 49 mg/L total dissolved solids.
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...
Drakesbad has a water temperature of 151°F (66°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Drakesbad located?
Drakesbad is located in Plumas County, California at 5,710 feet elevation, near Chester. Coordinates: 40.4440°N, 121.4090°W.
How do I get to Drakesbad?
Drakesbad has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Chester-Warner Valley Road (0.2 mi from the road).
Is Drakesbad free to visit?
Drakesbad has Open access. It is managed by National Park Service.
Can I camp near Drakesbad?
Yes, Warner Valley Campground is located nearby (0.7 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Drakesbad?
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 Drakesbad?
The water at Drakesbad reaches 151°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 Drakesbad crowded?
Drakesbad sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Drakesbad?
Essentials for Drakesbad: 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.
