Hot Springs Valley

Plumas County, California · Near Chester
40.4400°N, 121.4200°W · 5,816 ft
83°F 5,816 ft Open Short Walk National Park Service Camping nearby (1.3 mi)

Hot Springs Valley in Lassen Volcanic National Park sits at 5,816 feet elevation, but surface water reads only 83 degrees Fahrenheit due to mixing with cold mountain runoff. The spring demonstrates classic alpine thermal behavior where heat dissipates rapidly.

Location

Walking through conifer forest at high elevation, you approach a spring that reveals the park's geothermal complexity. Over 200 inches of snow annually shape this landscape, and the thermal features remain modest compared to Lassen's more dramatic geysers and mudpots.

The short walk from Warner Valley Road brings you to this spring. Reservable camping at Warner Valley Campground lies just 2.1 kilometers away. Visit during July through September when snowmelt clears high-elevation trails.

History of Hot Springs Valley

The valley sits within Lassen Volcanic National Park, where hydrothermal features mark zones of residual volcanic heat. The relatively cool water and low mineralization reflect this spring's position in a region of distributed, moderate geothermal activity.

Monthly Climate
32°
Jan
32°
Feb
35°
Mar
40°
Apr
48°
May
60°
Jun
68°
Jul
67°
Aug
60°
Sep
49°
Oct
38°
Nov
30°
Dec
Annual Precip: 46.7 in Annual Snow: 202.7 in
Best Time to Visit
December Air 30°F · Water 83°F · +53° contrast
January Air 32°F · Water 83°F · +52° contrast
February Air 32°F · Water 83°F · +52° contrast
December offers 38°F more contrast than July
Current Conditions
42°F
E 0.0 mph 87% Good soaking weather
Thursday 63° Low 45° Sunny
Spring is +20° warmer
Friday 62° Low 44° Sunny
Spring is +21° warmer
Saturday 68° Low 45° Sunny
Spring is +15° warmer
Sunday 69° Low 49° Sunny
Spring is +14° warmer
Monday 73° Low 48° Mostly Sunny
Spring is +10° warmer
Water Chemistry Sampled 1981-09-09

The water at Hot Springs Valley is slightly acidic (pH 6.7) with 49 mg/L total dissolved solids.

pH 6.7 Slightly Acidic
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
Higher mineral concentration for therapeutic soaking
Calcium 6 mg/L
May support bone density and joint health
Magnesium 2 mg/L
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Sodium 2 mg/L
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Sulfate 0 mg/L
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Chloride 3 mg/L
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
Where to Stay

Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Nearby Camping
Warner Valley Campground 1.3 mi away

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...

Reservable Yes
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Mile-High Advisory 5,816 ft

Hot Springs Valley sits at 5,816 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.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Temperature
83°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 83°F (28°C)
Avg Air Temp 47°F
Above Ambient +37°F
Good soaking conditions May
Access
Open
Road Access Short Walk
Nearest Road Chester-Warner Valley Road
Distance to Road 0.9 mi
Land
Ownership Federal
Agency National Park Service
Designation National Park
Unit Lassen Volcanic National Park
Manager National Park Service
Protection 1 - Permanent protection, natural state
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Hot Springs Valley?
Hot Springs Valley has a water temperature of 83°F (28°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Hot Springs Valley located?
Hot Springs Valley is located in Plumas County, California at 5,816 feet elevation, near Chester. Coordinates: 40.4400°N, 121.4200°W.
How do I get to Hot Springs Valley?
Hot Springs Valley has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Chester-Warner Valley Road (0.9 mi from the road).
Is Hot Springs Valley free to visit?
Hot Springs Valley has Open access. It is managed by National Park Service.
Can I camp near Hot Springs Valley?
Yes, Warner Valley Campground is located nearby (1.3 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Hot Springs Valley?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 6.7 (slightly acidic). Total dissolved solids measure 49 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at Hot Springs Valley?
Hot Springs Valley is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Hot Springs Valley crowded?
Hot Springs Valley sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Hot Springs Valley?
Essentials for Hot Springs Valley: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.
Sources: USGS NWIS