185°F4,669 ftOpenRoadsideBureau of Land ManagementCamping nearby (13.5 mi)
Very Hot Source — Use Extreme Caution
At 185°F, the source water at Seyferth Hot Springs 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.
Seyferth Hot Springs delivers an impressive 185°F in the high desert country of Modoc County near Alturas, ranking among northeastern California's hottest thermal features. The 136-degree temperature differential reflects intense geothermal activity in this remote region.
The spring sits virtually roadside at 4,669 feet elevation, just 60 feet from the nearest access point. The high desert landscape features scattered conifers and sagebrush under expansive skies. Winter snow averaging 52.5 inches annually transforms the region seasonally, creating stark contrasts between the steaming thermal water and the surrounding frozen terrain.
History of Seyferth Hot Springs
Seygler Hot Springs sits on Bureau of Land Management lands managed by the Applegate Field Office. The extreme temperatures mark this as a window into northeastern California's geothermal resources, located near the transition between the Warner Mountains and the Modoc Plateau.
The spring is readily accessible from the nearest road. Visit May through October to avoid heavy winter snowfall. The remote location requires self-sufficiency; bring water and supplies. Nearby Pepperdine Equestrian Campground offers basic facilities. Respect BLM regulations and extreme water temperatures.
Is Seyferth Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Easy day trips
Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Seyferth Hot Springs is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and easy day trips.
Monthly Climate
29°Jan
31°Feb
37°Mar
45°Apr
54°May
64°Jun
74°Jul
73°Aug
65°Sep
51°Oct
38°Nov
28°Dec
Annual Precip: 15.9 inAnnual Snow: 52.5 in
Best Time to Visit
DecemberAir 28°F · Water 185°F · +157° contrast
JanuaryAir 29°F · Water 185°F · +156° contrast
FebruaryAir 31°F · Water 185°F · +154° contrast
December offers 46°F more contrast than July
Nearby Camping
Pepperdine Equestrian Campground13.5 mi away
The campsites are mostly shaded and enjoy serene surroundings and are equiped with 12' X 12' metal corrals. A short trail runs over to the start of the Summit Trail where it heads south into the South Warner Wilderness. No wilderness permits are required however, if you plan to use a camp or backpack stove or charcoal barbeque or have a campfire outside the developed campground, you will need a current California Campfire Permit.
What is the water temperature at Seyferth Hot Springs?
Seyferth Hot Springs has a water temperature of 185°F (85°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Seyferth Hot Springs located?
Seyferth Hot Springs is located in Modoc County, California at 4,669 feet elevation, near Alturas. Coordinates: 41.6150°N, 120.1020°W.
How do I get to Seyferth Hot Springs?
Seyferth Hot Springs has Roadside road access (196 ft from the road).
Is Seyferth Hot Springs free to visit?
Seyferth Hot Springs has Open access. It is managed by Bureau of Land Management.
Can I camp near Seyferth Hot Springs?
Yes, Pepperdine Equestrian Campground is located nearby (13.5 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Seyferth Hot Springs?
The water at Seyferth Hot Springs reaches 185°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. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Seyferth Hot Springs crowded?
Seyferth Hot Springs 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 Seyferth Hot Springs?
Essentials for Seyferth Hot Springs: 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.
Temperature
185°F
WarmHotBoiling
Water Temp185°F (85°C)
Avg Air Temp49°F
Above Ambient+136°F
Perfect soaking weatherMarch
Access
Open
Road AccessRoadside
Distance to Road196 ft
Land
OwnershipFederal
AgencyBureau of Land Management
DesignationPUB
UnitApplegate Field Office
ManagerBureau of Land Management
Protection3 - Protected, subject to extractive use