Sulphur Springs

Siskiyou County County, California · Near Happy Camp
41.6590°N, 123.3190°W · 2,141 ft
84°F 2,141 ft Open Roadside US Forest Service Camping nearby (9.5 mi)

Sulphur Springs flows at a impressive 84°F in Siskiyou County's temperate forest, reaching 29.5 degrees above the cool ambient 54.5°F characteristic of the northern Sierra Nevada foothills.

Located at 2,141 feet elevation along Elk Creek Road near Happy Camp, the spring emerges in mixed coniferous forest receiving abundant precipitation and seasonal snowfall, creating a verdant landscape typical of northern California's mountain zone.

History of Sulphur Springs

These springs form where geothermal activity intersects the Klamath Mountain geologic province, with the surrounding landscape shaped by heavy winter precipitation and deep snowpacks that feed the nearby Klamath River.

Roadside access from Elk Creek Road allows easy visits during the brief warm season. Summer and early fall offer the best conditions before heavy winter snowfall arrives. Curly Jack Campground on the Klamath River sits 15.3 kilometers away.

Is Sulphur Springs worth visiting?

Best for

  • Warm-water soaking
  • Easy day trips
  • Overnight camping trips
Sulphur Springs is well suited for warm-water soaking and easy day trips.
Monthly Climate
40°
Jan
41°
Feb
44°
Mar
50°
Apr
57°
May
65°
Jun
74°
Jul
74°
Aug
67°
Sep
56°
Oct
45°
Nov
39°
Dec
Annual Precip: 43.2 in Annual Snow: 77.9 in
Best Time to Visit
December Air 39°F · Water 84°F · +45° contrast
January Air 40°F · Water 84°F · +44° contrast
February Air 41°F · Water 84°F · +43° contrast
December offers 35°F more contrast than August
Nearby Camping
Curly Jack Campground 9.5 mi away

Overview Curly Jack Campground is situated along the Klamath Wild and Scenic River near the town of Happy Camp. Visitors enjoy whitewater boating and fishing on the river, and exploring local hiking trails.Recreation Fishing, birding, hiking and whitewater boating are popular options, as is scenic driving along the State of Jefferson Scenic Byway. Visitors can access a Class III section of the Klamath River from the campground. The campsite is a put-in and take-out point for whitewater rafti...

Reservable Yes
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
What to Bring
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear Nearby camping at Curly Jack Campground
Trash bag Pack out what you pack in
References
USGS Quad: UKONOM LAKE 15 · PP 492: 1.0 · NOAA: 1.0 · AMS Map: WEED
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Sulphur Springs?
Sulphur Springs has a water temperature of 84°F (29°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Sulphur Springs located?
Sulphur Springs is located in Siskiyou County, California at 2,141 feet elevation, near Happy Camp. Coordinates: 41.6590°N, 123.3190°W.
How do I get to Sulphur Springs?
Sulphur Springs has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being Elk Creek Road (196 ft from the road).
Is Sulphur Springs free to visit?
Sulphur Springs has Open access. It is managed by US Forest Service.
Can I camp near Sulphur Springs?
Yes, Curly Jack Campground is located nearby (9.5 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Sulphur Springs?
Sulphur Springs is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Sulphur Springs crowded?
Sulphur 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 Sulphur Springs?
Essentials for Sulphur Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.
Temperature
84°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 84°F (29°C)
Avg Air Temp 55°F
Above Ambient +30°F
Good soaking conditions March
Access
Open
Road Access Roadside
Nearest Road Elk Creek Road
Distance to Road 196 ft
Land
Ownership Federal
Agency US Forest Service
Designation National Forest
Unit Klamath National Forest
Manager US Forest Service
Protection 3 - Protected, subject to extractive use