Dangerously Hot — Not Safe for Soaking
Morgan Hot Spring reaches 205°F, far above safe soaking levels. Contact with this water will cause severe burns. Look for cooled downstream pools or view from a safe distance only.
Morgan Hot Spring erupts at an extreme 205°F in the northern Sierra Nevada, far too hot for human immersion but visually dramatic—one of California's most thermal-intense springs requiring careful safety awareness.
The spring sits at 4,982 feet in a forest transition zone where conifers begin to thin on the volcanic slopes. The 166-meter walk from the road passes through mixed pine and fir, leading to a broad clearing where the superheated water emerges violently from fractured rock. The setting is remote and geologically active—the ground itself is warm near the spring mouth, and the water creates persistent steam and distinctive sulfurous odors.
History of Morgan Hot Spring
The volcanic foundation dates to the Pliocene, when lava flows blanketed this region. Geothermal activity in the northern Sierra results from proximity to the Lassen Peak volcanic field and deeper crustal heat sources. The extreme temperature makes this spring valuable primarily for geothermal research rather than recreation.
Access requires only a brief walk from the road, making it accessible to most visitors. Do not attempt to touch or immerse in the water—at 205°F, it causes severe burns instantly. Visit in the warmer months (June through September) when snow doesn't block the access road. Stay on established trails; the ground around thermal features can be unstable.
Is Morgan Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Viewing dramatic geothermal features
- Overnight camping trips
Morgan Hot Spring is best appreciated as a dramatic geothermal feature rather than a place to soak.
Annual Precip: 47.1 in
Annual Snow: 179.0 in
December
Air 34°F · Water 205°F · +171° contrast
January
Air 35°F · Water 205°F · +170° contrast
February
Air 35°F · Water 205°F · +170° contrast
December offers 36°F more contrast than August
True to its name, Hole-in-the-Ground is tucked away in a steep, tree-covered draw alongside Mill Creek. A developed campground with 13 designated sites, there is a maximum of 8 people per site at this campground. Grills and tables are provided.
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Hole In The Ground Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
USGS Quad: LASSEN PEAK 15 · PP 492: 33.0 · Circ 790: 41.0 · NOAA: 10.0 · AMS Map: SUSANVILLE
What is the water temperature at Morgan Hot Spring?
Morgan Hot Spring has a water temperature of 205°F (96°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Morgan Hot Spring located?
Morgan Hot Spring is located in Plumas County, California at 4,982 feet elevation, near Chester. Coordinates: 40.3820°N, 121.5130°W.
How do I get to Morgan Hot Spring?
Morgan Hot Spring has Short Walk road access (0.1 mi from the road).
Can I camp near Morgan Hot Spring?
Yes, Hole In The Ground Campground is located nearby (5.6 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Morgan Hot Spring?
The water at Morgan Hot Spring reaches 205°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 Morgan Hot Spring crowded?
Morgan Hot Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Morgan Hot Spring?
Essentials for Morgan 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.