Hot Springs historically known as Menlo Baths emerge at 135°F from the floor of Surprise Valley in Modoc County at 4,510 feet elevation, creating an 84°F temperature rise in this remote high desert basin.
The spring sits approximately 850 feet from Surprise Valley Road at the edge of a basin surrounded by sagebrush, greasewood, and scattered juniper. The landscape exemplifies Great Basin ecology—sparse vegetation, wide-open skies, and the sense of remote isolation typical of northeastern California's interior plateaus.
History of Hot Springs (Menlo Baths)
Menlo Baths was historically a known thermal resource in the Surprise Valley area, its warm waters providing respite in the cold high desert. The spring reflects crustal heating at moderate depth beneath the basin, part of the geothermal spine that extends across the Modoc Plateau.
Access via Surprise Valley Road north of Alturas. Patterson Guard Station (11.8 kilometers away) offers nearby camping and serves as a historic landmark from the Forest Service era. The spring is open year-round; winter snowpack may occasionally block road access. Water cools rapidly downstream.
Is Hot Springs (Menlo Baths) worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Overnight camping trips
Hot Springs (Menlo Baths) is well suited for hot spring soaking and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 16.5 in
Annual Snow: 64.3 in
December
Air 31°F · Water 135°F · +105° contrast
January
Air 32°F · Water 135°F · +103° contrast
February
Air 33°F · Water 135°F · +102° contrast
December offers 45°F more contrast than July
Overview
*Altitude is 7,080 feet above sea level*
Set on the edge of a meadow surrounded by Aspen, Fir and Pine trees, Patterson Guard Station has stood since 1921. It served the Modoc National Forest as a fully staffed fire office and guard station until 1981.
Just a few footsteps from the Summit Trail and one-quarter mile from the wilderness boundary, Patterson Guard Station can be your basecamp for trips into the South Warner Wilderness or the perfect place to disconnect and relax. The...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Patterson Guard Station
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
USGS Quad: EAGLEVILLE 7.5 · PP 492: 20.0 · NOAA: 14.0 · AMS Map: ALTURAS
What is the water temperature at Hot Springs (Menlo Baths)?
Hot Springs (Menlo Baths) has a water temperature of 135°F (57°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Hot Springs (Menlo Baths) located?
Hot Springs (Menlo Baths) is located in Modoc County, California at 4,510 feet elevation, near Alturas. Coordinates: 41.2660°N, 120.0800°W.
How do I get to Hot Springs (Menlo Baths)?
Hot Springs (Menlo Baths) has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Surprise Valley Road (0.2 mi from the road).
Can I camp near Hot Springs (Menlo Baths)?
Yes, Patterson Guard Station is located nearby (7.3 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Hot Springs (Menlo Baths)?
At 135°F, Hot Springs (Menlo Baths) is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. 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 Springs (Menlo Baths) crowded?
Hot Springs (Menlo Baths) sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Hot Springs (Menlo Baths)?
Essentials for Hot Springs (Menlo Baths): 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.