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Highland Springs

Riverside County, California · Near Cherry Valley

33.9690°N, 116.9420°W · 2,994 ft

112°F 2,994 ft Roadside Camping nearby (14.4 mi)

File:Brokeback Wagon, Highland Springs Ranch, CA 7-2011 (6917720485).jpg — cc by-sa 2.0 — Source

Highland Springs produces 112°F water in Riverside County near Cherry Valley, positioned just 16 feet from Canyon Place road at 2,994 feet elevation. This thermal feature runs nearly 50°F above ambient temperatures, offering readily accessible soaking in the San Bernardino foothills.

Location

0 miles from Cherry Valley, CA

Get Directions → All springs near Cherry Valley →

The spring sits in the transition between desert chaparral and oak-studded foothill zones. Canyon Place provides direct road access to the thermal feature, with the water emerging in a rocky, brushy setting typical of Southern California's complex terrain. The landscape reflects the mix of Mediterranean shrubland and oak woodlands.

This spring sits 16 feet from the road, offering roadside access with minimal walking. The foothill elevation experiences moderate temperatures and moderate precipitation totaling 20 inches annually. Winter brings occasional snow around 8 inches. Visit during cooler months for optimal soaking comfort.

History of Highland Springs

Highland Springs lies in the geological transition zone between coastal and desert ecosystems. Heat from deep crustal sources rises through fractured rock formations here. The thermal output reflects crustal heat that powers geothermal activity throughout the surrounding mountain ranges.

Monthly Climate

50°

Jan

50°

Feb

54°

Mar

59°

Apr

62°

May

72°

Jun

78°

Jul

79°

Aug

75°

Sep

66°

Oct

56°

Nov

49°

Dec

Annual Precip: 19.6 in Annual Snow: 8.0 in

Best Time to Visit

January Air 50°F · Water 112°F · +63° contrast

December Air 49°F · Water 112°F · +63° contrast

February Air 50°F · Water 112°F · +62° contrast

January offers 30°F more contrast than August

Current Conditions

50°F

ENE 14.4 mph 82% Good soaking weather

Thursday 81° Low 52° Sunny

Spring is +31° warmer

Friday 82° Low 56° Sunny 1% precip

Spring is +30° warmer

Saturday 85° Low 58° Sunny 1% precip

Spring is +27° warmer

Sunday 88° Low 60° Sunny

Spring is +24° warmer

Monday 93° Low 65° Sunny

Spring is +19° warmer

Data from National Weather Service

Where to Stay

Hotels & Lodges Booking.com

Cabins & Rentals VRBO

Glamping Hipcamp

RV Rentals Outdoorsy

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Nearby Camping

Council 14.4 mi away

Overview The Council Group Campground is a great place to enjoy a large outdoor gathering with just about everything the San Bernardino National Forest has to offer. Its location provides a great place for visitors to relax, take in the fresh mountain air and enjoy the beautiful scenery. In addition to a nearby lake and river access, a variety hiking, biking and horseback riding trails can be accessed from the campground. Recreation The campground provides access to the famed Santa Ana River...

Reservable Yes

Reserve on Recreation.gov →

What to Bring

Highland 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

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

Quick-Dry Swim Trunks Fast-drying shorts for back-to-back soaks and hikes Amazon

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Temperature

112°F

Warm Hot Boiling

Water Temp 112°F (44°C)

Avg Air Temp 62°F

Above Ambient +50°F

Great soaking conditions May

Access

Road Access Roadside

Nearest Road Canyon Place

Distance to Road 54 ft

Nearby

Springs Near Highland Springs

Eden Hot Springs

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109°F Roadside

Gilman Hot Springs

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117°F Roadside

Unnamed Spring

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Warm Roadside Open

Soboda Hot Springs

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102°F Roadside

Unnamed Spring

San Bernardino County, California · Near Mentone

90°F Short Walk Open

Similar Temperature

More Springs Around 112°F

Delonegha Hot Springs

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112°F Roadside

Jonesboro Warm Spring

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112°F Short Walk

Blank Spring, Manzanita Mine Sprs

Lake County, California · Near Clearlake

112°F Roadside Open

Coalinga Mineral Springs

Fresno County, California · Near Coalinga

112°F Roadside Open

Warm Springs

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112°F Roadside Open

Granite Falls Hot Springs

Teton County, Wyoming · Near Jackson

112°F Short Walk Open

Explore all hot springs in California →

Between Soaks

Hike 6 waterfalls near Highland Springs

24.6 mi moderate 60 ft

WaterfallHikes.com

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the water temperature at Highland Springs?

Highland Springs has a water temperature of 112°F (44°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.

Where is Highland Springs located?

Highland Springs is located in Riverside County, California at 2,994 feet elevation, near Cherry Valley. Coordinates: 33.9690°N, 116.9420°W.

How do I get to Highland Springs?

Highland Springs has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being Canyon Place (54 ft from the road).

Can I camp near Highland Springs?

Yes, Council is located nearby (14.4 miles away).

Is it safe to soak at Highland Springs?

At 112°F, Highland 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 Highland Springs crowded?

Highland 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 Highland Springs?

Essentials for Highland 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.