Warm Spring
Warm Spring flows at 92°F at 5,319 feet elevation in the remote plateau forest straddling the Oregon-California border, creating a 45.2-degree differential above the 46.8°F ambient temperature. The spring sits 370 meters from National Forest Development Road 409, accessible via short walk.
High-elevation plateau country characterizes this site in northern Siskiyou County near Tulelake, where mixed conifer forests dominate the landscape at elevations exceeding 5,000 feet. The spring emerges in terrain that receives 21.3 inches of annual precipitation and 67.1 inches of snowfall, creating deep winter snowpack that persists well into spring across these volcanic tablelands. The surrounding forest reflects the transition zone between California's Cascade Range and the Great Basin.
Access requires driving National Forest Development Road 409, followed by a 370-meter walk. Visit June through October when snow has melted; heavy winter snowpack closes access November through May. The spring's 92°F temperature falls below soaking comfort for most visitors. High elevation creates afternoon thunderstorm risk in summer and rapid temperature drops after sunset.
The spring's straightforward name reflects its moderate thermal output relative to nearby hot springs in this geologically active border region. Historical records document the spring's presence but provide limited detail on Indigenous or early settler use. The area's remoteness and harsh winters likely limited year-round occupation, though seasonal hunting and gathering would have occurred.
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Warm Spring sits at 5,319 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 21% stronger than at sea level, so bring sunscreen and drink more water than you normally would.
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Warm Spring is road-accessible, so you can bring more gear.
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