Horseshoe Spring

Lake County, California · Near Soda Bay
38.9940°N, 122.7420°W · 1,321 ft
108°F 1,321 ft Short Walk Camping nearby (21.4 mi)

Horseshoe Spring produces 108°F water in Lake County near Soda Bay at 1,321 feet elevation, running 47°F above ambient temperature. Located in volcanic terrain with scattered geothermal activity, the spring sits 640 feet from the nearest road, requiring a brief walk to access.

Location

The spring emerges from the volcanic landscape of Lake County at the foothills elevation where thermal activity persists. Mixed forests and rocky terrain frame the approach, with the spring creating its own microclimate in the foothill environment. The setting reflects the volcanic heritage of this geologically active region.

The spring sits 640 feet from the nearest road, accessible via a brief walk. The foothill elevation experiences mild temperatures averaging 61°F with moderate precipitation around 27 inches annually and occasional snow around 4 inches. Access is relatively easy year-round given the moderate elevation and climate.

History of Horseshoe Spring

Horseshoe Spring draws heat from volcanic systems underlying Lake County. The thermal feature sits in an area known for scattered geothermal activity related to deeper crustal heat sources. The spring represents part of the regional geothermal pattern that has attracted settlement and development.

Monthly Climate
47°
Jan
48°
Feb
51°
Mar
57°
Apr
63°
May
72°
Jun
78°
Jul
78°
Aug
73°
Sep
64°
Oct
53°
Nov
46°
Dec
Annual Precip: 26.7 in Annual Snow: 4.5 in
Best Time to Visit
December Air 46°F · Water 108°F · +62° contrast
January Air 47°F · Water 108°F · +61° contrast
February Air 48°F · Water 108°F · +60° contrast
December offers 32°F more contrast than August
Current Conditions
55°F
WSW 10.8 mph 91% Good soaking weather
Thursday 75° Low 51° Patchy Fog then Sunny 1% precip
Spring is +33° warmer
Friday 74° Low 51° Sunny
Spring is +34° warmer
Saturday 77° Low 53° Sunny
Spring is +31° warmer
Sunday 79° Low 53° Sunny
Spring is +29° warmer
Monday 87° Low 56° Mostly Sunny
Spring is +21° warmer
Where to Stay

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Nearby Camping
Letts Lake Campground 21.4 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
108°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 108°F (42°C)
Avg Air Temp 61°F
Above Ambient +47°F
Good soaking conditions May
Access
Road Access Short Walk
Distance to Road 0.1 mi
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Horseshoe Spring?
Horseshoe Spring has a water temperature of 108°F (42°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Horseshoe Spring located?
Horseshoe Spring is located in Lake County, California at 1,321 feet elevation, near Soda Bay. Coordinates: 38.9940°N, 122.7420°W.
How do I get to Horseshoe Spring?
Horseshoe Spring has Short Walk road access (0.1 mi from the road).
Can I camp near Horseshoe Spring?
Yes, Letts Lake Campground is located nearby (21.4 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Horseshoe Spring?
Horseshoe 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 Horseshoe Spring crowded?
Horseshoe Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Horseshoe Spring?
Essentials for Horseshoe Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.