Davis-Schrimpf Mud Pots

The Davis-Schrimpf Mud Pots are a series of hydrothermal seeps located near the southeastern shore of the Salton Sea in Southern California. They sit directly along the San Andreas Fault, sitting on land managed by the Imperial Irrigation District. This geological area is part of the larger Salton Buttes volcanic field.

Unlike traditional hot springs heated directly by magma, these gryphons are driven by deep underground carbon dioxide gas escaping to the surface. As the pressurized gas rises, it mixes with saline groundwater and fine soil to create the bubbling mud pots. The gas pushes the mud upwards, resulting in mini-eruptions.

Over time, the continuous eruptions of mud build up small, conical mud volcanoes, also known as gryphons. These structures can reach impressive heights of about 2 meters (over 6 feet) in this specific region. The size of the gryphon depends entirely on the consistency of the mud and the pressure of the escaping gas.

Visitors are strongly advised not to touch the mud or the water, as the seeps are highly saline and can reach near-boiling temperatures. Furthermore, the ground around the gryphons can be incredibly unstable, making it dangerous to walk too close. The escaping gases also make the immediate area hazardous for breathing.