Dangerously Hot — Not Safe for Soaking
Hot Spring reaches 204°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:Aphaenogaster uinta casent0005727 label 1.jpg — cc by 4.0
Hot Spring near Janesville produces 204°F water, among the hottest in northeastern California, with a temperature differential of 150°F above the ambient air in this sagebrush and juniper landscape.
The spring sits at 4,041 feet elevation, requiring a 910-foot walk across high desert terrain. The landscape is defined by the transition zone between pine forest and sagebrush steppe, with sparse vegetation, dramatic seasonal temperature swings, and clear night skies typical of the interior plateau.
History of Hot Spring
This extreme-temperature spring emerges from crustal depth in the geothermal corridor that extends from the Modoc Plateau through to California's volcanism. Its heat reflects the region's position above elevated thermal gradients and possible proximity to buried magma systems.
Approach via roads near Janesville and Highway 395. The extreme water temperature (204°F) demands extreme caution—thermal burns occur within seconds. Approach only downstream of the main vent where cooling has occurred. Access is seasonal; winter snowpack may block roads.
Is Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Viewing dramatic geothermal features
- Overnight camping trips
Hot Spring is best appreciated as a dramatic geothermal feature rather than a place to soak.
Annual Precip: 15.4 in
Annual Snow: 32.5 in
December
Air 35°F · Water 204°F · +170° contrast
January
Air 36°F · Water 204°F · +169° contrast
February
Air 38°F · Water 204°F · +166° contrast
December offers 44°F more contrast than July
Overview
Black Mountain Lookout remained closed for the 2020 season and is expected to remain closed into 2021. Closure is due to COVID related demands in maintaining a safe environment for our customers and our staff.
Black Mountain Lookout is located on the eastern edge of the Beckwourth Ranger District, 10 miles from Highway 395, near Milford, California.
The lookout was constructed in 1934 and is a great example of Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) architecture. The C-3-type lookout is si...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Black Mountain Lookout
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
5 miles from Janesville, CA
USGS Quad: WENDEL 15 · Circ 790: 42.0 · NOAA: 3.0 · AMS Map: SUSANVILLE
What is the water temperature at Hot Spring?
Hot Spring has a water temperature of 204°F (96°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Hot Spring located?
Hot Spring is located in Lassen County, California at 4,041 feet elevation, near Janesville. Coordinates: 40.3640°N, 120.2430°W.
How do I get to Hot Spring?
Hot Spring has Short Walk road access (0.2 mi from the road).
Can I camp near Hot Spring?
Yes, Black Mountain Lookout is located nearby (17.6 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Hot Spring?
The water at Hot Spring reaches 204°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 Hot Spring crowded?
Hot Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Hot Spring?
Essentials for 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.