At 156°F, the source water at Sulphur Bank 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.
File:Cinnabar with Stibnite (46836616425).jpg — cc by-sa 2.0
Sulphur Bank emerges at a scorching 156 degrees in Lake County near Clearlake Oaks, flowing at 1,369 feet elevation in the volcanic landscape surrounding Clear Lake. The spring provides water 95.2 degrees warmer than the ambient temperature of 61 degrees, ranking among California's hottest springs.
The spring requires a 281-meter walk from the nearest road through volcanic terrain. Clear Lake dominates the landscape—California's largest natural freshwater lake at 68 square miles—with volcanic peaks and ridges rising around its shoreline. The spring emerges in volcanic rock formations, with intense heat creating visible steam and mineral deposits.
History of Sulphur Bank
Sulphur Bank represents one of the most vigorous geothermal features in the Clear Lake volcanic field, which remains one of North America's most geothermally active regions. The area's intense volcanic and geothermal activity reflects ongoing crustal heat release and fracture-zone circulation of hot water.
The short walk accesses a truly hot spring with visible steam and dramatic geothermal features. The mild climate (60.8 degrees average, 25.4 inches precipitation) permits comfortable year-round visiting. The spring's extreme temperature demands caution and respect. Little Stony Campground lies 32.5 kilometers distant as a developed facility option.
Is Sulphur Bank worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Sulphur Bank is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and overnight camping trips.
Monthly Climate
47°Jan
48°Feb
51°Mar
57°Apr
63°May
72°Jun
78°Jul
78°Aug
73°Sep
64°Oct
53°Nov
46°Dec
Annual Precip: 25.4 inAnnual Snow: 4.7 in
Best Time to Visit
DecemberAir 46°F · Water 156°F · +110° contrast
JanuaryAir 47°F · Water 156°F · +109° contrast
FebruaryAir 48°F · Water 156°F · +108° contrast
December offers 32°F more contrast than August
Nearby Camping
Little Stony20.2 mi away
Overview
This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site.Once on-site, you are able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature.In order to utilize Scan & Pay on site, you will need to first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your arrival as some remote area...
Sulphur Bank has a water temperature of 156°F (69°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Sulphur Bank located?
Sulphur Bank is located in Lake County, California at 1,369 feet elevation, near Clearlake Oaks. Coordinates: 39.0020°N, 122.6640°W.
How do I get to Sulphur Bank?
Sulphur Bank has Short Walk road access (0.2 mi from the road).
Can I camp near Sulphur Bank?
Yes, Little Stony is located nearby (20.2 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Sulphur Bank?
The water at Sulphur Bank reaches 156°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 Sulphur Bank crowded?
Sulphur Bank sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Sulphur Bank?
Essentials for Sulphur Bank: 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.
