Table of Contents
Tucked into the remote Surprise Valley, the Eagleville Hot Spring—also known as Squaw Bath—offers a rugged and relaxing outdoor bath experience. This northern California geothermal treasure sits close to the town of Eagleville and provides breathtaking views, primitive pools, and a sense of solitude that modern spas rarely deliver.
This article is worth reading because it combines historical insights, hiking details, Yelp-style reviews, and practical directions for reaching this unusual natural hot spring. Whether you want a quiet soak surrounded by wild beauty or just want to learn about Eagleville Hot, you’ll find everything you need here.
The Location and Setting of Eagleville Hot Spring
The Eagleville Hot Spring is found just outside the small town of Eagleville, CA, near the tricorner region bordering Nevada and Oregon. This location sits on the edge of the Modoc region, surrounded by high desert hillsides and open land. Because of its remote setting, the hot springs sit on a slope overlooking Surprise Valley Road with far-reaching views.
Travelers describe this site as both primitive and peaceful. You’ll often encounter frequent solitude, thanks to limited traffic and the distance from major towns. Many visitors value the solitude, where they can hear nothing but the flow of water against rock and the occasional rustle of leaves and scrub.
Natural Hot Spring Features and Soaking Pools
The Eagleville Hot Spring is sometimes called Wild Mint Hot Spring because of the wild mint plants that surround the area. The water flows down a hillside, forming two pools built out of stone and gravel. These primitive pools provide a rustic, authentic experience compared to developed hot springs.
The lower pool is shallow, only about 2 feet deep, but offers warm soaking comfort. The upper soaking pool is slightly larger and can hold more than one visitor at a time. Combined, the two hot springs provide flexibility for groups or solo soakers. With gravel bottoms and natural shapes, they retain heat well and offer good water temperatures, often hovering around 103 to 120 degrees.
Many describe this natural hot spring as clean, though occasional trash left by careless guests can spoil the view. Responsible soaking means packing out what you pack in. The pond below the pools often captures runoff, creating a small waterfall effect that adds to the beauty.
Hiking Adventure and Road Access from Surprise Valley
Reaching Eagleville Hot requires a mix of driving and a short hike. The road in Eagleville turns into a narrow gravel track, sometimes steep in sections. A high-clearance truck is often recommended for the final approach, especially in wet seasons. The last quarter mile usually requires travel by foot, following a trail up the slope to the pools.
The road to get there runs about 7.5 miles from Cedarville and roughly 5.5 miles from the town of Eagleville. Although tricky to find, you can find directions online or use the map link provided earlier. Always remember you may cross private land on the way, so respect property and avoid any hint of trespass.
This small adventure adds to the overall experience. Between the remote terrain, the rustic gravel paths, and the steep roadside climbs, the journey feels like a true northern California adventure. Along the way, you might spot wildlife and enjoy wide views of the valley.
Visitor Impressions and Yelp Recommended Reviews
On Yelp, Eagleville Hot Spring receives a mix of recommended reviews. Some travelers rave about the primitive pools, thermal comfort, and unmatched solitude. They highlight the beauty of soaking during an evening under the stars, surrounded by the quiet desert.
Other reviews mention difficulties with directions, occasional trash, or confusion about whether the pools sit on private property. Still, most agree that the adventure of finding and enjoying these natural hot springs is worth the effort.
A common highlight across visitor reviews is the waterfall that forms when the water flows down to the lower pool. This adds both sound and beauty, making it an unforgettable soak. Ultimately, if you want to see the springs in their raw state, this site is a gem.
Practical Directions, Accessibility, and Safety Notes
To find directions, start from the town of Eagleville on Surprise Valley Road. Follow signs for dirt and gravel paths heading north. Continue for around 7.5 miles before turning toward the base of the hillside. The last section may be poorly marked, so many travelers find directions online or rely on GPS.
The hot springs sit in a rugged remote setting, so accessibility can be limited. The roadside approach is not well-maintained, and the slope leading to the pools is steep. Wear sturdy foot gear and be prepared for uneven ground. Because the site is near private property, respect boundaries and avoid crossing posted fences.
Always test the temperature before entering. Although these pools usually remain at good water temperatures, hot spots can appear suddenly. The two pools are best enjoyed when the flow balances naturally, creating safe and soothing levels. Carry water, avoid leaving trash, and be cautious in evening hours when visibility drops.
Key Takeaways
- Eagleville Hot Spring, also called Squaw Bath, is a natural hot spring near the town of Eagleville, CA.
- Known as Wild Mint Hot Spring, the pools are surrounded by wild mint and rustic scenery.
- The site features two pools with gravel bottoms, primitive pools with good water temperatures of around 103–120 degrees.
- Access requires a drive on narrow gravel roads, with a quarter mile hike on foot up a slope.
- The surround of Surprise Valley and Modoc land provides unmatched views and frequent solitude.
- Reviews highlight the waterfall, rustic setting, and relaxing bath opportunities.
- Respect private land, avoid trespass, and keep the site clean for future visitors.
