At 169°F, the source water at Little Hot 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.
Little Hot Spring discharges at 169°F in the volcanic terrain south of Lassen, where superheated water rises 117 degrees above ambient in the southern Cascade Range. Located at 3,547 feet near Burney in Shasta County, this spring marks geothermal activity in a tectonically active region dominated by past and present volcanism.
A short walk from Forest Route 40N01 leads through mixed conifer forest to Little Hot Spring at 3,547 feet elevation. Superheated water emerges from volcanic bedrock and produces abundant steam in a setting of Douglas-fir, fir, and pine. The thermal discharge creates a distinctive hot-spring microclimate with unique mineral-loving plants surrounding the boiling outlet.
History of Little Hot Spring
Little Hot Spring sits in the southern Cascade volcanic arc, where plate tectonics and crustal heat maintain geothermal systems. The 169°F water temperature and 117-degree elevation above ambient air (52°F) indicate circulation through heated volcanic rock. This area has erupted repeatedly over the past million years, creating the thermally active conditions present today.
The spring is accessible via a short walk from Forest Route 40N01 in Shasta National Forest. Summer is the best season, though winter access is possible. The water is dangerously hot—never enter the outlet pool directly. Forest Service regulations apply; respect thermal protection measures. Bring layers, as high-elevation forests cool rapidly after sunset even in summer."
Is Little Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Little Hot Spring is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and overnight camping trips.
Monthly Climate
34°Jan
37°Feb
41°Mar
48°Apr
56°May
67°Jun
75°Jul
74°Aug
66°Sep
53°Oct
41°Nov
34°Dec
Annual Precip: 27.1 inAnnual Snow: 56.6 in
Best Time to Visit
JanuaryAir 34°F · Water 169°F · +135° contrast
DecemberAir 34°F · Water 169°F · +135° contrast
FebruaryAir 37°F · Water 169°F · +132° contrast
January offers 41°F more contrast than July
Nearby Camping
Pit River Campground17.2 mi away
The Pit River Recreation area is adjacent to the Pit River, has a small campground with eight campsites with tables, metal firerings, and barbeque pits. Amenities include: two single wheelchair accessible restrooms, a kayak launch ramp, and an accessible fishing pier. Camping:$8.00/night
USGS Quad: FALL RIVER MILLS 15 · PP 492: 11.0 · NOAA: 2.0 · AMS Map: ALTURAS
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Little Hot Spring?
Little Hot Spring has a water temperature of 169°F (76°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Little Hot Spring located?
Little Hot Spring is located in Shasta County, California at 3,547 feet elevation, near Burney. Coordinates: 41.2290°N, 121.4050°W.
How do I get to Little Hot Spring?
Little Hot Spring has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Forest Route 40N01 (0.3 mi from the road).
Can I camp near Little Hot Spring?
Yes, Pit River Campground is located nearby (17.2 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Little Hot Spring?
The water at Little Hot Spring reaches 169°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 Hot Spring crowded?
Little Hot Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Little Hot Spring?
Essentials for Little 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.