There is a cluster of four natural hot springs at this location, in an isolated narrow winding steep walled canyon on the north bank of the Rice Fork of the Eel River, about one fourth mile downriver from its junction with Salt Creek.

[4] About 1907, Samuel Tate Packwood (1842-1924), an Upper Lake businessman, bought property at Crabtree Hot Springs, and made plans to set up a resort there.

[4] About 1900, in search of quicksilver, two tunnels were driven into the canyon side a short distance downriver from the springs, and although the rock contains noticeable amounts of cinnabar, this mineral was not found in paying quantity.

[2] The principal spring emerges at the northeast edge of the stream in a natural rock basin at the foot of a small cliff, and yields perhaps 10 US gallons (38 L) a minute of water at 106 °F (41 °C) in temperature.

The pool formed by this spring has long been used for bathing and the water is locally considered efficacious in the treatment of skin and blood diseases.

[4] Twin Valley Road was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1933-1934 as a public work relief program for young unemployed men during the depression.

Often referred to as the (Off-Highway Vehicle) OHV Corridor, Twin Valley Road (forest road 17N04) is a designated 40-mile (64 km) east-west major transportation route across the south end of Mendocino National Forest connecting the Upper Lake and Grindstone Ranger Districts.

[5][6] From Twin Valley Road (at the junction of Rice Fork and Salt Creek), there is a one fourth mile trail to the hot springs.

There is an immense amount of carbonic acid gas bubbling up through the water of the river and that which flows out of the hillside at these hot springs.

John built his home about 150 yards southwest from the junction of Rice Fork and Salt Creek, on a bench on land.

Established by the Forest Service in 1987 to represent the knobcone pine forest for the North Coast Ranges, the RNA includes an impressive selection of knobcone pine, is a designated critical habitat for the federally protected northern spotted owl, and a winter range for black-tailed deer.

Free and open all year, maximum stay 14 days, 16 picnic tables and grilles, and two toilets, elevation 2,000 feet (610 m).