Unnamed Thermal Spring

Fresno County County, California · Near Firebaugh
36.6400°N, 120.6840°W · 962 ft
75°F 962 ft Open Short Walk Bureau of Land Management

This modest 75-degree thermal spring emerges over 1,100 meters from the nearest road in Fresno County's remote hills near Firebaugh, where hot springs remain uncommon.

The spring flows from Bureau of Land Management property in rolling foothill terrain at 962 feet elevation. Desert scrub and grassland vegetation dominate the landscape, with limited water sources making the thermal pool a notable feature in this arid environment.

History of This Spring

The 9-degree temperature rise above ambient suggests modest geothermal circulation in a region not typically associated with significant thermal activity. BLM's Central Coast Field Office manages the site under multiple-use regulations that permit recreation alongside other land uses.

Access requires hiking over 1,100 meters from the road into open public lands. The remote setting near Firebaugh offers solitude and open access year-round. Expect hot, dry conditions during summer months with minimal precipitation—averaging just 10 inches annually.

Monthly Climate
51°
Jan
53°
Feb
57°
Mar
63°
Apr
69°
May
78°
Jun
84°
Jul
83°
Aug
78°
Sep
68°
Oct
57°
Nov
49°
Dec
Annual Precip: 10.0 in Annual Snow: 0.0 in
Best Time to Visit
December Air 49°F · Water 75°F · +26° contrast
January Air 51°F · Water 75°F · +24° contrast
February Air 53°F · Water 75°F · +23° contrast
December offers 35°F more contrast than July
What to Bring
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Sun protection Limited shade in warm climate
Trash bag Pack out what you pack in
References
USGS Quad: (CHOUNET RANCH 7.5) · NOAA: 4.0 · AMS Map: SANTA CRUZ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at ?
has a water temperature of 75°F (24°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is located?
is located in Fresno County, California at 962 feet elevation, near Firebaugh. Coordinates: 36.6400°N, 120.6840°W.
How do I get to ?
has Short Walk road access (0.7 mi from the road).
Is free to visit?
has Open access. It is managed by Bureau of Land Management.
Is it safe to soak at ?
is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is crowded?
sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to ?
Essentials for : swimsuit, towel, water bottle, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.
Temperature
75°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 75°F (24°C)
Avg Air Temp 66°F
Above Ambient +9°F
Mild soaking conditions March
Access
Open
Road Access Short Walk
Distance to Road 0.7 mi
Land
Ownership Federal
Agency Bureau of Land Management
Designation PUB
Unit Central Coast Field Office
Manager Bureau of Land Management
Protection 3 - Protected, subject to extractive use