Carson Spring

## Overview Carson Spring is a public drinking spring located in the scenic Butte Creek Canyon area of Northern California, nestled in the foothills east of Chico. Butte Creek Canyon is known for its rugged beauty, towering oaks, gray pines, and the winding course of Butte Creek — a waterway famous for supporting one of the last remaining wild runs of spring-run Chinook salmon in the Sacramento Valley. The canyon has long been a cherished local destination for its natural character and quiet, rural atmosphere. Situated at approximately 39.7391°N, 121.7004°W, Carson Spring sits at a modest elevation within the canyon, where natural groundwater emerges from the volcanic and sedimentary geology characteristic of the western Sierra Nevada foothills. Springs in this region are typically fed by seasonal rainfall and snowmelt percolating through layers of ancient volcanic rock and alluvial deposits. Carson Spring has historically been used as a drinking water source by local residents and visitors passing through the canyon. While the water has been valued by the community for generations, visitors should be aware that natural spring water quality can vary with seasonal conditions and should exercise their own discretion. ## Directions 1. From **Chico, CA**, head east on **CA-32 (East 8th Street)** toward the foothills. 2. After approximately 10 miles, turn right (south) onto **Garland Road**, which descends into Butte Creek Canyon. 3. Follow Garland Road as it winds through the canyon. The spring is located along the canyon road near the Plus Code coordinates **P7QX+MV2** (Butte Creek Canyon, California). 4. Look for a roadside pullout or pipe where water flows — springs in this area are often marked by a visible pipe or trough near the road. *Note: Cell service can be limited in Butte Creek Canyon. It is recommended to download offline maps or note GPS coordinates (39.7391, -121.7004) before heading out.* ## What to Expect Carson Spring is a roadside-accessible natural spring in a beautiful canyon setting. Butte Creek Canyon is a narrow, winding corridor with mixed oak woodland, seasonal wildflowers, and the sounds of Butte Creek flowing nearby. The area is popular with locals for hiking, fishing, and simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings. The spring is publicly accessible and has been used as a community water source. Visitors typically bring jugs or bottles to collect water. Flow may vary seasonally — expect stronger output during and after the rainy season (roughly November through April) and potentially reduced flow during the dry summer and early fall months. The canyon road is paved but narrow and winding, so drive carefully, especially around blind curves. Parking is limited to roadside pullouts near the spring. The area is generally quiet and uncrowded, making it a pleasant stop for anyone exploring the Butte Creek Canyon region.