Big Soda Spring

Lake County, California · Near Soda Bay
39.0060°N, 122.7870°W · 1,321 ft
90°F 1,321 ft Roadside Camping nearby (20.9 mi)

Big Soda Spring bubbles forth at 90 degrees Fahrenheit near Soda Bay in Lake County, suggesting carbonated or mineral-rich water typical of California's volcanic mineral springs.

Location

The spring sits 74 feet from Willow Road at 1,321 feet elevation, emerging in the volcanic landscape surrounding Clear Lake. The area receives nearly 26 inches of annual precipitation but only about 5 inches of snow, creating a relatively mild climate where the warm spring water remains year-round accessible.

Roadside access via Willow Road provides straightforward visitation near Soda Bay. The modest temperature and nearby development make this a lower-key thermal feature compared to hotter springs in the region. Letts Lake Campground, 33.7 kilometers away, offers first-come, first-served camping and swimming.

History of Big Soda Spring

The spring's name suggests soda springs where carbon dioxide-rich groundwater creates distinctive mineral deposits. The location sits within the geologically active Clear Lake region, where volcanic activity has driven mineralization and thermal feature development throughout the landscape.

Monthly Climate
47°
Jan
49°
Feb
51°
Mar
56°
Apr
63°
May
72°
Jun
78°
Jul
77°
Aug
72°
Sep
64°
Oct
53°
Nov
47°
Dec
Annual Precip: 25.9 in Annual Snow: 4.8 in
Best Time to Visit
December Air 47°F · Water 90°F · +44° contrast
January Air 47°F · Water 90°F · +43° contrast
February Air 49°F · Water 90°F · +41° contrast
December offers 32°F more contrast than July
Current Conditions
56°F
SW 0.0 mph 90% Good soaking weather
Thursday 81° Low 48° Sunny 1% precip
Spring is +9° warmer
Friday 79° Low 48° Mostly Sunny
Spring is +11° warmer
Saturday 83° Low 50° Sunny
Spring is +7° warmer
Sunday 86° Low 50° Mostly Sunny
Spring is +4° warmer
Monday 92° Low 54° Mostly Sunny
Where to Stay

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Nearby Camping
Letts Lake Campground 20.9 mi away

The main feature of the area is a 35-acre lake for non-motorized vessels, trout fishing and swimming. A one-mile trail leads along the lake shore. There are accessible restrooms and a popular fully-accessible fishing pier.

Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Temperature
90°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 90°F (32°C)
Avg Air Temp 61°F
Above Ambient +29°F
Mild soaking conditions May
Access
Road Access Roadside
Nearest Road Willow Road
Distance to Road 241 ft
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Big Soda Spring?
Big Soda Spring has a water temperature of 90°F (32°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Big Soda Spring located?
Big Soda Spring is located in Lake County, California at 1,321 feet elevation, near Soda Bay. Coordinates: 39.0060°N, 122.7870°W.
How do I get to Big Soda Spring?
Big Soda Spring has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being Willow Road (241 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Big Soda Spring?
Yes, Letts Lake Campground is located nearby (20.9 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Big Soda Spring?
Big Soda Spring is generally safe for soaking at its recorded 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 Big Soda Spring crowded?
Big Soda Spring 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 Big Soda Spring?
Essentials for Big Soda Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.
Sources: Wikipedia