Sulphur Spring

Lake County County, California · Near Clearlake Oaks
39.0880°N, 122.5250°W · 1,454 ft
68°F 1,454 ft Open Short Walk RWD Camping nearby (14.0 mi)
Sulphur Spring
File:M 3912260 ne 10 060 20220524.tif — public domain

Sulphur Spring emerges at a modest 68°F in a northern California interior valley, sitting just 5.9 degrees above ambient temperature within a state conservation area.

The spring flows at 1,454 feet elevation through oak and grassland habitat along Walker Ridge Road, accessible via a short walk through regional water district land designated for conservation and wildlife protection.

History of Sulphur Spring

Located in Lake County near Clearlake Oaks, this thermal feature lies on permanently protected land managed by California Department of Fish and Wildlife, with water chemistry typical of regional volcanic activity.

The Indian Valley Wildlife Area provides public access year-round on a first-come basis. Nearest camping is at Little Stony Campground, 22.5 kilometers away. Best visited during mild months; cool water ideal for quick dips.

Is Sulphur Spring worth visiting?

Best for

  • Overnight camping trips
Sulphur Spring is well suited for overnight camping trips.
Monthly Climate
48°
Jan
49°
Feb
51°
Mar
58°
Apr
65°
May
75°
Jun
81°
Jul
80°
Aug
74°
Sep
65°
Oct
53°
Nov
47°
Dec
Annual Precip: 23.1 in Annual Snow: 5.9 in
Best Time to Visit
January Air 48°F · Water 68°F · +21° contrast
December Air 47°F · Water 68°F · +21° contrast
February Air 49°F · Water 68°F · +19° contrast
January offers 34°F more contrast than July
Nearby Camping
Little Stony 14.0 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...

Reservable Yes
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
What to Bring
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear Nearby camping at Little Stony
Trash bag Pack out what you pack in
References
USGS Quad: CLEARLAKE OAKS 15 · NOAA: 8.0 · AMS Map: UKIAH
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Sulphur Spring?
Sulphur Spring has a water temperature of 68°F (20°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Sulphur Spring located?
Sulphur Spring is located in Lake County, California at 1,454 feet elevation, near Clearlake Oaks. Coordinates: 39.0880°N, 122.5250°W.
How do I get to Sulphur Spring?
Sulphur Spring has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Walker Ridge Road (0.4 mi from the road).
Is Sulphur Spring free to visit?
Sulphur Spring has Open access. It is managed by RWD.
Can I camp near Sulphur Spring?
Yes, Little Stony is located nearby (14.0 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Sulphur Spring?
Sulphur Spring is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Sulphur Spring crowded?
Sulphur Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Sulphur Spring?
Essentials for Sulphur Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.
Temperature
68°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 68°F (20°C)
Avg Air Temp 62°F
Above Ambient +6°F
Mild soaking conditions March
Access
Open
Road Access Short Walk
Nearest Road Walker Ridge Road
Distance to Road 0.4 mi
Land
Ownership Regional/District
Agency RWD
Designation State Conservation Area
Unit Indian Valley Wildlife Area
Manager SFW
Protection 2 - Permanent protection, some use allowed