Geyser — Not a Soaking Spring
Little Geysers is a geyser, not a traditional hot spring. These geothermal features can be extremely dangerous — boiling water, toxic gases, and unstable ground are common hazards. Do not attempt to soak.
Little Geysers discharges near-boiling water at 210°F from the heart of the world's largest geothermal field, producing vigorous steam and fumaroles at just 159 feet from the road. Located near Cobb in Lake County, this geothermal hotspot sits where dozens of power plants tap the earth's internal heat.
A short walk from Dillingham Road leads to Little Geysers at 2,682 feet elevation. Visitors encounter sulfurous steam vents, mineral-crusted rock formations in brilliant yellows and whites, and the distinctive odor of geothermal gases rising from fissures. The landscape resembles an alien terrain—barren of vegetation beyond a few hardy geothermal specialists adapted to toxic soil and superheated ground.
History of Little Geysers
The Geysers geothermal field sits atop a 5-mile-wide silica-rich reservoir in the northern Mayacamas Mountains. Little Geysers and neighboring vents mark where groundwater encounters rock temperatures exceeding 700°F, producing the superheated discharge 154 degrees above ambient (56°F). The field has generated electricity continuously since the 1960s.
A short walk of under 0.1 miles reaches the main fumaroles. Stay on marked paths—ground temperature can reach dangerous levels beneath thin surface crusts. Visit any season, but avoid heavy fog in winter. The intense geothermal activity makes this a compelling engineering and geological display, not a soak destination."
Is Little Geysers worth visiting?
Best for
- Viewing dramatic geothermal features
- Overnight camping trips
Little Geysers is best appreciated as a dramatic geothermal feature rather than a place to soak.
Annual Precip: 34.4 in
Annual Snow: 2.0 in
December
Air 44°F · Water 210°F · +167° contrast
January
Air 44°F · Water 210°F · +166° contrast
February
Air 45°F · Water 210°F · +165° contrast
December offers 29°F more contrast than August
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...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Warm Springs Rec Area
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
USGS Quad: (WHISPERING PINES 7.5) · PP 492: 74.0 · Circ 790: 48.0 · NOAA: 27.0 · AMS Map: SANTA ROSA
What is the water temperature at Little Geysers?
Little Geysers has a water temperature of 210°F (99°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Little Geysers located?
Little Geysers is located in Lake County, California at 2,682 feet elevation, near Cobb. Coordinates: 38.7670°N, 122.7480°W.
How do I get to Little Geysers?
Little Geysers has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Dillingham Road (522 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Little Geysers?
Yes, Warm Springs Rec Area is located nearby (14.0 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Little Geysers?
The water at Little Geysers reaches 210°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 Little Geysers crowded?
Little Geysers sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Little Geysers?
Essentials for Little Geysers: 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.