Drakesbad
Drakesbad emerges at 151°F from the Warner Valley section of Lassen Volcanic National Park, where thermal waters have supported historic accommodations and naturally heated pools since the late 19th century.
The spring flows at 5,710 feet elevation just 1,200 feet from Chester-Warner Valley Road, feeding the only resort concession within Lassen National Park. Visitors experience naturally heated pools nestled against forested slopes with views into the park's volcanic landscape and access to trails connecting to other thermal features.
The spring occupies a short-walk distance from Chester-Warner Valley Road, making it the most accessible major thermal feature within Lassen National Park. Historic guest accommodations operate seasonally; reservations are essential. The region receives over 200 inches of annual snow, making winter road access unreliable. Nearby Warner Valley Campground offers seasonal accommodations within 1.1 kilometers.
Drakesbad's name reflects its historical settlement by European visitors who recognized the value of hot spring tourism. The thermal waters flow from Lassen's ongoing geothermal system, which has sustained human use for over a century—rare for major California hot springs where public access often faces restrictions.
The water at Drakesbad is slightly acidic (pH 6.7) with 49 mg/L total dissolved solids.
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Overview Warner Valley campground is a limited development facility in the south eastern area of the park. It has vault toilets and potable water spigots. Numerous trails can be accessed from the campground. Recreation Hiking trails accessible from the campground Facilities Vault toilets - seasonal Natural Features Lassen Volcanic national park is known for its volcanic history, as well as its diversity of plants and animals. It contains 300 active volcanic domes, as well as many hydrotherma...
Drakesbad sits at 5,710 feet above sea level, way above the mile-high mark. You may not feel the altitude strongly, but hot water still dehydrates you faster at elevation. UV is about 23% stronger than at sea level, so bring sunscreen and drink more water than you normally would.
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Drakesbad is road-accessible, so you can bring more gear. The water is dangerously hot — bring water shoes and test pools carefully.
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Slightly Acidic Springs (pH ~6.7)
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