At 142°F, the source water at Jones Fountain Of Life Spring 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.
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Jones Fountain of Life Spring discharges 142-degree water at 1,721 feet elevation in Lake County near Clearlake, creating an 81-degree temperature differential. The spring sits within California's most extensive geothermal resource area, home to The Geysers power complex.
The spring emerges in volcanic landscape shaped by geothermal development and exploitation. Located just 205 feet from the road, the spring offers easy accessibility while sitting in an area transformed by industrial geothermal energy extraction dating back decades.
History of Jones Fountain Of Life Spring
The spring reflects the broader geothermal province underlying Lake County, where deep circulation through fractured volcanic rocks feeds numerous thermal features. This same circulation system powers The Geysers, North America's largest geothermal power facility.
Road access makes this spring easily reached from nearby towns. The area remains accessible year-round with moderate climate conditions—about 22 inches annual precipitation and minimal snow. Nearby campgrounds and accommodations serve the region's recreational visitors.
Is Jones Fountain Of Life Spring worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Easy day trips
Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Jones Fountain Of Life Spring is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and easy day trips.
Monthly Climate
46°Jan
48°Feb
50°Mar
57°Apr
64°May
74°Jun
79°Jul
78°Aug
73°Sep
64°Oct
52°Nov
46°Dec
Annual Precip: 21.9 inAnnual Snow: 4.8 in
Best Time to Visit
DecemberAir 46°F · Water 142°F · +97° contrast
JanuaryAir 46°F · Water 142°F · +96° contrast
FebruaryAir 48°F · Water 142°F · +94° contrast
December offers 34°F more contrast than July
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature
80.6°F
(27.0°C)Measured Nov 16, 2015
Water ChemistrySampled 2015-11-16
The water at Jones Fountain Of Life Spring is slightly acidic (pH 6.7).
Overview
This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site.Once on-site, you are able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature.In order to utilize Scan & Pay on site, you will need to first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your arrival as some remote area...
What is the water temperature at Jones Fountain Of Life Spring?
Jones Fountain Of Life Spring has a water temperature of 142°F (61°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Jones Fountain Of Life Spring located?
Jones Fountain Of Life Spring is located in Lake County, California at 1,721 feet elevation, near Clearlake. Coordinates: 39.0330°N, 122.4450°W.
How do I get to Jones Fountain Of Life Spring?
Jones Fountain Of Life Spring has Roadside road access (205 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Jones Fountain Of Life Spring?
Yes, Little Stony is located nearby (18.9 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Jones Fountain Of Life Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH. The pH is 6.7 (slightly acidic).
Is it safe to soak at Jones Fountain Of Life Spring?
The water at Jones Fountain Of Life Spring reaches 142°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 Jones Fountain Of Life Spring crowded?
Jones Fountain Of Life Spring is accessible from a paved road, making it easy to reach. Weekends and holidays may be busier — consider visiting on a weekday for a quieter experience.
What should I bring to Jones Fountain Of Life Spring?
Essentials for Jones Fountain Of Life 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.
