State guides

Northern California Hot Springs: Best Natural Soaks and Resorts

Last updated October 22, 2026 · 2 min read

Popular searches:North California Hot Springs · Hot Springs in Northern California · Natural Hot Springs Northern California · Best Northern California Hot Springs · Hot Spring Resort Northern California · Hot Springs Northern California Map

Northern California has two very different kinds of hot springs. West of the Sierra, in the Coast Ranges and wine country, most springs are on private land and run as resorts or retreats. East of the Sierra crest, and in the volcanic north, you find free natural pools on public land.

Resorts and developed hot springs

Wilbur Hot Springs, in the hills of Colusa County, is a quiet off-grid retreat with mineral baths in a long flume. Book ahead; it is not a drop-in pool.

Drakesbad in Lassen Volcanic National Park is a historic guest ranch with a spring-fed pool, open in summer when the park road is clear.

Grover Hot Springs, a state park near Markleeville in Alpine County, has a hot pool and a cool swimming pool and is one of the few developed springs on public land.

The Napa Valley town of Calistoga is known for its mud baths and spa pools fed by geothermal wells, all run by private spas.

Natural hot springs in Northern California

On the Sierra’s east side, near Bridgeport, Travertine Hot Springs has pools on a pale mineral ridge with a mountain view, and Buckeye Hot Springs spills down a bank into Buckeye Creek. Both are free. Campbell Hot Springs near Sierraville is another option north of Lake Tahoe.

Tips

Mountain roads close in winter, and fire season can close forests in late summer and fall. Check road and fire status, book resorts early, and carry water. For trip ideas from a city, see hot springs near Sacramento, near San Francisco, near Santa Rosa and near Reno. For the south of the state, see our California hot springs guide.

Springs in this guide

Frequently asked questions

What are the best hot springs in Northern California?

Popular choices include Wilbur Hot Springs in Colusa County, Drakesbad in Lassen Volcanic National Park, Grover Hot Springs State Park near Markleeville, and Travertine and Buckeye near Bridgeport on the Sierra's east side.

Are there natural hot springs in Northern California?

Yes, but most free natural springs are on the east side of the Sierra Nevada, such as Travertine and Buckeye near Bridgeport. Most springs in the Coast Ranges and wine country are on private land and run as resorts.

Are there hot spring resorts in Northern California?

Yes. Wilbur Hot Springs, Drakesbad Guest Ranch and the spa towns of Calistoga and Lake County are the best known. Most require a booking.

What hot springs are near Sacramento or San Francisco?

Wilbur Hot Springs is about two hours from Sacramento, and Grover Hot Springs is about three. See our near Sacramento and near San Francisco lists for distances.