Hot Spot
Hot Spot delivers water at 191°F, the hottest spring in this dataset section, creating a temperature differential of 150°F above the cold, high-elevation environment of the Modoc National Forest near Tulelake.
A 2,000-foot walk across volcanic terrain leads to this high-altitude spring at 7,078 feet elevation. The landscape is stark—dark basalt, minimal vegetation, and profound silence typical of the Medicine Lake Highlands. Cold winters deliver 122 inches of snow annually.
Hot Spot's extreme heat reflects its proximity to the geothermally active Medicine Lake volcano. The spring emerges through the same volcanic system that creates the nearby Medicine Lake itself, a much larger but non-thermal water body in this geologically young landscape.
Access via Forest Service roads near Medicine Lake Recreation Area. Bring layers—high elevation and exposed terrain make conditions cold despite hot water. Best visited June through October; winter access is unreliable. Exercise caution on dark lava rock.
Is Hot Spot worth visiting?
Best for
- Observing powerful hot springs
- Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
- Casual soaking
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Overview The popular Medicine Lake Recreation Area and adjacent Medicine Lake are located in the Medicine Lake Highlands in northeastern California. The Recreation Area is located in the Modoc National Forest at an elevation of 6,770 feet.Recreation The Medicine Lake Recreation Area offers camping, boating, fishing and swimming. The adjacent Day Use Areas accommodate boating with a concrete boat ramp and dock. Swimming is available in a designated swimming area next to the Picnic Area. Hi...