Little Hot Spring
Little Hot Spring discharges at 169°F in the volcanic terrain south of Lassen, where superheated water rises 117 degrees above ambient in the southern Cascade Range. Located at 3,547 feet near Burney in Shasta County, this spring marks geothermal activity in a tectonically active region dominated by past and present volcanism.
A short walk from Forest Route 40N01 leads through mixed conifer forest to Little Hot Spring at 3,547 feet elevation. Superheated water emerges from volcanic bedrock and produces abundant steam in a setting of Douglas-fir, fir, and pine. The thermal discharge creates a distinctive hot-spring microclimate with unique mineral-loving plants surrounding the boiling outlet.
Little Hot Spring sits in the southern Cascade volcanic arc, where plate tectonics and crustal heat maintain geothermal systems. The 169°F water temperature and 117-degree elevation above ambient air (52°F) indicate circulation through heated volcanic rock. This area has erupted repeatedly over the past million years, creating the thermally active conditions present today.
The spring is accessible via a short walk from Forest Route 40N01 in Shasta National Forest. Summer is the best season, though winter access is possible. The water is dangerously hot—never enter the outlet pool directly. Forest Service regulations apply; respect thermal protection measures. Bring layers, as high-elevation forests cool rapidly after sunset even in summer."
Is Little Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Observing powerful hot springs
- Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
- Casual soaking
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The Pit River Recreation area is adjacent to the Pit River, has a small campground with eight campsites with tables, metal firerings, and barbeque pits. Amenities include: two single wheelchair accessible restrooms, a kayak launch ramp, and an accessible fishing pier. Camping:$8.00/night