Soda Station Springs

San Bernardino County, California · Near Fort Irwin
35.1410°N, 116.1010°W · 960 ft
75°F 960 ft Open Short Walk National Park Service

Soda Station Springs emerges at 75°F within Mojave National Preserve, offering a modest thermal resource on permanently protected National Park Service land.

Location

The spring sits at 960 feet elevation in the heart of the Mojave Desert, requiring a moderate 408-foot walk through open desert vegetation. The landscape stretches endlessly in golden tones with minimal vegetation, extreme aridity, and unobstructed views, with only 3 inches of annual precipitation and virtually no snow.

The National Park Service maintains this site with open public access and permanent protection. The modest temperature elevation of only 2.8°F above ambient means this spring suits visitors seeking a genuine desert thermal experience rather than intense heat. Visit during fall through spring to avoid extreme summer desert temperatures.

History of Soda Station Springs

This spring's thermal character reflects the geothermal history of the Mojave region where subsurface heat creates measurable but modest warm-water features. The designation as a National Conservation Area ensures long-term protection of the site within the Preserve's management framework.

Monthly Climate
52°
Jan
57°
Feb
64°
Mar
71°
Apr
77°
May
89°
Jun
94°
Jul
93°
Aug
86°
Sep
73°
Oct
60°
Nov
50°
Dec
Annual Precip: 3.0 in Annual Snow: 0.0 in
Best Time to Visit
December Air 50°F · Water 75°F · +25° contrast
January Air 52°F · Water 75°F · +23° contrast
February Air 57°F · Water 75°F · +18° contrast
December offers 44°F more contrast than July
Current Conditions
63°F
N 20.7 mph 29% Good soaking weather
Thursday 97° Low 59° Sunny
Friday 102° Low 64° Sunny
Saturday 101° Low 64° Sunny
Sunday 105° Low 65° Sunny
Monday 106° Low 65° Sunny
Water Chemistry Sampled 2018-11-28

The water at Soda Station Springs is slightly alkaline (pH 8.1) with 1840 mg/L total dissolved solids. It is notably rich in sodium (supports circulation and skin hydration), sulfate (traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation), and chloride (natural antiseptic with skin health benefits).

pH 8.1 Slightly Alkaline
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
Higher mineral concentration for therapeutic soaking
Calcium 13 mg/L
May support bone density and joint health
Magnesium 5 mg/L
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Sodium 600 mg/L
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Sulfate 302 mg/L
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Chloride 656 mg/L
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
Where to Stay

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Temperature
75°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 75°F (24°C)
Avg Air Temp 72°F
Above Ambient +3°F
Mild soaking conditions May
Access
Open
Road Access Short Walk
Distance to Road 0.3 mi
Land
Ownership Federal
Agency National Park Service
Designation National Conservation Area
Unit Mojave National Preserve
Manager National Park Service
Protection 2 - Permanent protection, some use allowed
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Soda Station Springs?
Soda Station Springs has a water temperature of 75°F (24°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Soda Station Springs located?
Soda Station Springs is located in San Bernardino County, California at 960 feet elevation, near Fort Irwin. Coordinates: 35.1410°N, 116.1010°W.
How do I get to Soda Station Springs?
Soda Station Springs has Short Walk road access (0.3 mi from the road).
Is Soda Station Springs free to visit?
Soda Station Springs has Open access. It is managed by National Park Service.
What minerals are in the water at Soda Station Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 8.1 (slightly alkaline). Total dissolved solids measure 1,840 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at Soda Station Springs?
Soda Station Springs is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Soda Station Springs crowded?
Soda Station Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Soda Station Springs?
Essentials for Soda Station Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.
Sources: USGS NWIS