Highland Springs
Highland Springs flows at 84°F in Lake County near Kelseyville, managed by the county as a public recreation area at 1,485 feet elevation. This thermal feature runs 25°F warmer than the local air, positioned 72 feet from the road within a designated recreation area.
The spring emerges in the foothills between the Mayacamas Mountains and surrounding valleys. Oak woodlands and mixed hardwoods frame the setting, with Mediterranean climate creating dry, warm summers. The landscape reflects typical wine country topography—rolling hills with seasonal water and thermal features scattered throughout.
Highland Springs emerges from the geothermal province underlying Lake County's volcanic landscape. The thermal output reflects heat from subsurface sources. The spring is part of a larger geothermal system that has attracted development and recreation use in this region.
Public access is open year-round at the Highland Springs Recreation Area. The spring sits 72 feet from the nearest road, making it accessible with minimal walking. The climate is mild, averaging 59°F annually, with rainy winters around 29 inches per year. Occasional snow—3 inches—may affect winter visits.
Is Highland Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Warm-water soaking
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Overview Warm Springs Recreation Area is a day-use park located at Lake Sonoma, which is just a 45 minute drive north of Santa Rosa and a 2 hour trip from San Francisco. There is no overnight camping available at this facility World famous vineyards and a land rich in history surround the lake, where visitors enjoy boating, fishing and exploring the area's extensive trail network.Recreation The Woodland Ridge Nature Trail begins at the park and winds up the ridge, rewarding hikers with great...