Kellog Hot Springs
Kellog Hot Springs discharges at 172°F in the high desert of Modoc County, 121°F hotter than the frigid local average of 51°F. Located near Alturas at 4,181 feet elevation, it represents one of California's hottest natural thermal features in a volcanic landscape shaped by geothermal activity.
The spring sits just 158 meters from Susanville Road in terrain dominated by volcanic rock, sagebrush, and scattered ponderosa pine. At this elevation, winters bring heavy snow—averaging 45 inches annually—while summers remain cool and dry. The surrounding landscape exemplifies the Modoc Plateau's harsh beauty: sparse vegetation, distant views across high desert valleys, and the geological remnants of ancient volcanic eruptions. Water discharge creates visible steam plumes in colder months.
Kellog Hot Springs formed in the Modoc Plateau's extensive geothermal system, where shallow heat sources drive water circulation through volcanic rock layers. This region sits atop the Medicine Lake volcanic field, one of California's most volcanically active areas. The extreme temperature differential—120°F above ambient—indicates unusually strong geothermal gradient, typical of areas with ongoing magmatic heat close to the surface.
Access is simple: a short walk from Susanville Road. Winter driving conditions can be severe; travel October through May with caution. Exercise care around active thermal features—water temperature will cause serious burns instantly. The spring sits in sparsely populated country; nearest services are in Alturas, 40 kilometers away. Nearby Lassen Volcanic National Park offers camping and additional geothermal features.
Is Kellog Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Observing powerful hot springs
Not ideal for
- Casual soaking