Geyser — Not a Soaking Spring
The Geysers is a geyser, not a traditional hot spring. These geothermal features can be extremely dangerous — boiling water, toxic gases, and unstable ground are common hazards. Do not attempt to soak.
File:ISS059-E-25141 - View of Earth.jpg — public domain
The Geysers reaches 214°F in Lake County, representing one of the world's largest geothermal power generation complexes where industrial and natural thermal features coexist.
Located at 1,565 feet elevation near Cobb in the Mayacamas Mountains, the site sits just 176 meters from Big Geysers Road with dramatic volcanic terrain and superheated steam vents creating a landscape 154°F above ambient temperature.
History of The Geysers
The Geysers' extraordinary thermal intensity results from deep circulation through fractured volcanic rock, making it a critical energy resource for Northern California and a site of intense industrial development alongside natural thermal features.
Access is short walk distance from Big Geysers Road. Warm Springs Recreation Area (18.9 km away) offers day-use only with no overnight camping, though it provides picnic facilities and trail access to Lake Sonoma nearby.
Is The Geysers worth visiting?
Best for
- Viewing dramatic geothermal features
- Overnight camping trips
The Geysers is best appreciated as a dramatic geothermal feature rather than a place to soak.
Annual Precip: 34.4 in
Annual Snow: 2.0 in
January
Air 48°F · Water 214°F · +167° contrast
December
Air 47°F · Water 214°F · +167° contrast
February
Air 49°F · Water 214°F · +165° contrast
January offers 28°F more contrast than August
Overview
Warm Springs Recreation Area is a day-use park located at Lake Sonoma, which is just a 45 minute drive north of Santa Rosa and a 2 hour trip from San Francisco. There is no overnight camping available at this facility
World famous vineyards and a land rich in history surround the lake, where visitors enjoy boating, fishing and exploring the area's extensive trail network.Recreation
The Woodland Ridge Nature Trail begins at the park and winds up the ridge, rewarding hikers with great...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Warm Springs Rec Area
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
USGS Quad: THE GEYSERS 7.5 · PP 492: 72.0 · Circ 790: 48.0 · NOAA: 21.0 · AMS Map: SANTA ROSA
What is the water temperature at The Geysers?
The Geysers has a water temperature of 214°F (101°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is The Geysers located?
The Geysers is located in Lake County, California at 1,565 feet elevation, near Cobb. Coordinates: 38.8020°N, 122.8100°W.
How do I get to The Geysers?
The Geysers has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Big Geysers Road (0.1 mi from the road).
Can I camp near The Geysers?
Yes, Warm Springs Rec Area is located nearby (11.7 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at The Geysers?
The water at The Geysers reaches 214°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 The Geysers crowded?
The Geysers sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to The Geysers?
Essentials for The Geysers: 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.