Muir Springs

Mendocino County, California · Near Willits
39.4290°N, 123.3080°W · 1,440 ft
68°F 1,440 ft Short Walk Camping nearby (14.9 mi)

Muir Springs flows at a modest 68°F (20°C) in Mendocino County's coastal mountains, sitting 11 degrees above the ambient temperature in a landscape where redwood forests transition to oak woodland near Lake Mendocino.

Location

The spring emerges within classic North Coast Range terrain—dense mixed forest with redwoods, Douglas fir, and tanoak. The water flows cool and clear through a short walk (156 meters) from Canyon Road. Visitors experience a landscape of dappled shade, understory ferns, and the sound of flowing water, characteristic of Mendocino's inland valleys.

The spring requires only a short walk from Canyon Road, making it accessible year-round. Best visited in cooler months (November–April) when forest trails drain well and temperatures remain mild. Lake Mendocino day-use areas lie 24 kilometers away; no on-site facilities exist at the spring itself.

History of Muir Springs

Muir Springs derives its name from John Muir's influence on California's conservation movement, though specific geological formation details remain limited. The modest temperature elevation suggests relatively shallow geothermal circulation in this coastal range province.

Monthly Climate
46°
Jan
46°
Feb
48°
Mar
53°
Apr
58°
May
66°
Jun
72°
Jul
72°
Aug
68°
Sep
60°
Oct
51°
Nov
45°
Dec
Annual Precip: 43.0 in Annual Snow: 14.5 in
Best Time to Visit
December Air 45°F · Water 68°F · +23° contrast
January Air 46°F · Water 68°F · +22° contrast
February Air 46°F · Water 68°F · +22° contrast
December offers 27°F more contrast than August
Current Conditions
48°F
N 0.0 mph 94% Good soaking weather
Thursday 78° Low 43° Areas Of Fog then Sunny 1% precip
Friday 75° Low 43° Mostly Sunny 3% precip
Saturday 80° Low 44° Sunny
Sunday 82° Low 45° Areas Of Fog then Mostly Sunny
Monday 90° Low 46° Patchy Fog then Mostly Sunny
Where to Stay

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Nearby Camping
Pomo Day Use Area 14.9 mi away

Overview Pomo Day-Use Area is situated on Lake Mendocino in California's Mendocino Range, where the redwood forests meet California wine country. The lake is formed by the Coyote Dam on the Russian River. A wide variety of recreational opportunities are available, including boating, swimming, water skiing, fishing, hiking and horseback riding.Recreation The 1,822-acre lake provides abundant boating, swimming and water skiing opportunities. There is a designated swim beach in the Pomo Recreat...

Reservable Yes
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Temperature
68°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 68°F (20°C)
Avg Air Temp 57°F
Above Ambient +11°F
Mild soaking conditions May
Access
Road Access Short Walk
Nearest Road Canyon Road
Distance to Road 514 ft
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Muir Springs?
Muir Springs has a water temperature of 68°F (20°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Muir Springs located?
Muir Springs is located in Mendocino County, California at 1,440 feet elevation, near Willits. Coordinates: 39.4290°N, 123.3080°W.
How do I get to Muir Springs?
Muir Springs has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Canyon Road (514 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Muir Springs?
Yes, Pomo Day Use Area is located nearby (14.9 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Muir Springs?
Muir Springs 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 Muir Springs crowded?
Muir Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Muir Springs?
Essentials for Muir Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.