Dangerously Hot — Not Safe for Soaking
Growler Hot Spring 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:ISS040-E-104077 - View of Earth.jpg — public domain
Growler Hot Spring discharges at a spectacular 203 degrees Fahrenheit, the highest temperature in this survey and reflecting extraordinary geothermal power from deep crustal sources.
Tucked at 5,106 feet elevation in Plumas County's northern Sierra Nevada, the spring sits approximately 110 yards from the nearest road in dense forest of ponderosa pine, sugar pine, incense cedar, and fir. The short walk leads through lush forest canopy receiving 47 inches of annual precipitation and 179 inches of snow, creating a landscape where thermal activity provides dramatic contrast to surrounding cool, wet conditions.
History of Growler Hot Spring
Growler Hot Spring represents the apex of California's continental geothermal gradient, with a 154-degree temperature differential indicating massive heat flux from below and minimal surface water mixing. The feature's extreme temperature reflects proximity to viable heat sources at moderate depth, unusual for the northern Sierra region where most springs operate at lower temperatures.
Short forest walk from parking area; high temperature means extreme caution near the spring itself. Accessible summer through early fall via Highway 89 near Chester; winter access is unreliable. The nearby Hole-in-the-Ground Campground provides basic facilities for exploring this and other northern Sierra thermal features.
Is Growler Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Viewing dramatic geothermal features
- Overnight camping trips
Growler Hot Spring is best appreciated as a dramatic geothermal feature rather than a place to soak.
Annual Precip: 47.1 in
Annual Snow: 179.0 in
December
Air 33°F · Water 203°F · +170° contrast
February
Air 34°F · Water 203°F · +169° contrast
January
Air 35°F · Water 203°F · +168° contrast
December offers 37°F more contrast than July
True to its name, Hole-in-the-Ground is tucked away in a steep, tree-covered draw alongside Mill Creek. A developed campground with 13 designated sites, there is a maximum of 8 people per site at this campground. Grills and tables are provided.
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Hole In The Ground Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
USGS Quad: LASSEN PEAK 15 · Circ 790: 41.0 · NOAA: 9.0 · AMS Map: SUSANVILLE
What is the water temperature at Growler Hot Spring?
Growler Hot Spring has a water temperature of 203°F (95°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Growler Hot Spring located?
Growler Hot Spring is located in Plumas County, California at 5,106 feet elevation, near Chester. Coordinates: 40.3930°N, 121.5070°W.
How do I get to Growler Hot Spring?
Growler Hot Spring has Short Walk road access (364 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Growler Hot Spring?
Yes, Hole In The Ground Campground is located nearby (6.4 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Growler Hot Spring?
The water at Growler Hot Spring 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. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Growler Hot Spring crowded?
Growler Hot Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Growler Hot Spring?
Essentials for Growler Hot Spring: 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.