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Campbell Hot Springs

Plumas County, California · Near Portola

39.5730°N, 120.3480°W · 5,174 ft

111°F 5,174 ft Roadside Camping nearby (2.4 mi)

Campbell Hot Springs produces 111-degree water near Sierraville at modest elevation with low mineral content and nearby campground access. This is a classic Sierra foothill thermal feature with direct road proximity.

Location

0 miles from Portola, CA

Get Directions → All springs near Portola →

The spring emerges just 59 feet from Campbell Hot Springs Road in Plumas County's mixed conifer landscape. Mineral water pools form in a foothill setting where seasonal rainfall and heavy winter snow shape the geothermal environment around 5,174 feet elevation.

Access is straightforward from Campbell Hot Springs Road with roadside parking. Visit in summer months when snow clears; winter access requires checking road conditions. Cottonwood Creek Campground sits 3.8 kilometers away for overnight options.

History of Campbell Hot Springs

The 1880s-era resort development at Campbell Hot Springs reflects the region's thermal heritage. The relatively neutral pH of 7.5 and low dissolved solids (161 mg/L) indicate a dilute geothermal system typical of Sierra foothill springs.

Monthly Climate

32°

Jan

33°

Feb

37°

Mar

43°

Apr

52°

May

63°

Jun

71°

Jul

70°

Aug

63°

Sep

51°

Oct

39°

Nov

31°

Dec

Annual Precip: 31.3 in Annual Snow: 120.9 in

Best Time to Visit

December Air 31°F · Water 111°F · +81° contrast

January Air 32°F · Water 111°F · +79° contrast

February Air 33°F · Water 111°F · +78° contrast

December offers 41°F more contrast than July

Water Chemistry Sampled 2008-09-16

The water at Campbell Hot Springs is slightly alkaline (pH 7.5) with 161 mg/L total dissolved solids.

pH 7.5 Slightly Alkaline

pH influences mineral absorption through skin

Total Dissolved Solids 161 mg/L

Higher mineral concentration for therapeutic soaking

Calcium 22 mg/L

May support bone density and joint health

Magnesium 10 mg/L

Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief

Sodium 7 mg/L

Supports circulation and skin hydration

Sulfate 0 mg/L

Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation

Chloride 0 mg/L

Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits

Compare with other slightly alkaline springs →

Where to Stay

Hotels & Lodges Booking.com

Cabins & Rentals VRBO

Glamping Hipcamp

RV Rentals Outdoorsy

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Nearby Camping

Cottonwood Creek 2.4 mi away

Overview Cottonwood Creek Campground is located on Highway 89, four miles south of Sierraville. Its location makes it a great base camp for a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, hunting, hiking and biking. This facility is operated and maintained by Lake Tahoe Hospitality LLC for the Tahoe National Forest.Recreation Cottonwood Creek Botanical Trail and Overlook Trail are both short, foot trails that begin in the campground. The surrounding area offers additional trails and...

Reservable Yes

Reserve on Recreation.gov →

What to Bring

Campbell Hot Springs is road-accessible, so you can bring more gear. The water runs hot, so extra hydration is key.

Hydro Flask 32 oz Water Bottle Hot water dehydrates fast — stay hydrated with insulated cold water Amazon

PackTowl Quick-Dry Towel Dries 4x faster than cotton — essential for soaking day trips Amazon

Teva Hurricane XLT2 Sandals Rugged waterproof sandals for slippery hot spring terrain Amazon

Dryrobe Advance Changing Robe Stay warm changing in cold air — a winter soaking game-changer Amazon

Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag Keep clothes and electronics dry at the spring's edge Amazon

Waterproof Phone Pouch (2-Pack) Take photos in and around the water without risking your phone Amazon

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Temperature

111°F

Warm Hot Boiling

Water Temp 111°F (44°C)

Avg Air Temp 49°F

Above Ambient +62°F

Great soaking conditions May

Access

Road Access Roadside

Nearest Road Campbell Hot Springs Road

Distance to Road 194 ft

Nearby

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Similar Temperature

More Springs Around 111°F

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Similar Water Chemistry

Slightly Alkaline Springs (pH ~7.5)

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Bennett Springs

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Explore all hot springs in California →

Between Soaks

Hike 6 waterfalls near Campbell Hot Springs

Looking for more outdoor adventures? Explore waterfall hikes near Campbell Hot Springs, California.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the water temperature at Campbell Hot Springs?

Campbell Hot Springs has a water temperature of 111°F (44°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.

Where is Campbell Hot Springs located?

Campbell Hot Springs is located in Plumas County, California at 5,174 feet elevation, near Portola. Coordinates: 39.5730°N, 120.3480°W.

How do I get to Campbell Hot Springs?

Campbell Hot Springs has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being Campbell Hot Springs Road (194 ft from the road).

Can I camp near Campbell Hot Springs?

Yes, Cottonwood Creek is located nearby (2.4 miles away).

What minerals are in the water at Campbell Hot Springs?

Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 7.5 (slightly alkaline). Total dissolved solids measure 161 mg/L.

Is it safe to soak at Campbell Hot Springs?

At 111°F, Campbell Hot Springs is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.

Is Campbell Hot Springs crowded?

Campbell Hot 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 Campbell Hot Springs?

Essentials for Campbell Hot Springs: 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.

Sources: USGS NWIS, Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap