Rhodes Warm Spring emerges at 75°F at 10,172 feet elevation in the high mountain country of Park County near Fairplay, offering a 42.8°F temperature boost above the frigid alpine conditions typical of this region.
The spring sits just 109 meters from Warm Springs Road through terrain dominated by stunted subalpine spruce and fir forest. The landscape reaches near-timberline conditions with scattered willows and alpine tundra vegetation. The surrounding meadows and mountainous terrain create an isolated alpine setting with expansive views across the South Park basin.
History of Rhodes Warm Spring
This thermal feature sits in terrain rich in Colorado mining history, with Fairplay nearby representing a surviving mining town from the 1800s. The modest water temperatures and low mineralization suggest shallow circulation through granitic bedrock. The spring name reflects its distinctive thermal characteristics within an otherwise frigid alpine environment.
Easy access requires just a short walk from Warm Springs Road parking areas. Horseshoe Campground lies 2.9 miles away in San Isabel National Forest, featuring tree-sheltered sites near Horseshoe Creek. The Limber Grove Trail nearby showcases 1,000-year-old limber pines. Summer through early autumn offers the most comfortable conditions, as winter snows average 81 inches annually.
Is Rhodes Warm Spring worth visiting?
Rhodes Warm Spring is well suited for overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 20.3 in
Annual Snow: 81.4 in
December
Air 12°F · Water 75°F · +64° contrast
January
Air 13°F · Water 75°F · +62° contrast
February
Air 14°F · Water 75°F · +61° contrast
December offers 44°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
75.2°F
(24.0°C)
Measured Jul 15, 1976
The water at Rhodes Warm Spring is slightly alkaline (pH 7.5).
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
May support bone density and joint health
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
Iron-rich springs may support circulation
Overview
Horseshoe Campground sits along its namesake creek near a grassy meadow among aspen, Engelmann spruce and Bristlecone pines in the San Isabel National Forest. Trees provide good privacy between campsites, which are located at the base of Sheep Mountain. Recreation
Visitors enjoy the Limber Grove Trail, a 3-mile mountainside path that winds through 1,000-year-old limber pine with gigantic twisted trunks. Fishing or wading in Horseshoe Creek are also popular pastimes. Facilities
The ca...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Warm layers
Cold air before and after soaking
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Horseshoe Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
18 miles from Fairplay, CO
USGS Quad: FAIRPLAY WEST 7.5 · PP 492: 16.0 · NOAA: 1.0 · AMS Map: LEADVILLE
What is the water temperature at Rhodes Warm Spring?
Rhodes Warm Spring has a water temperature of 75°F (24°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Rhodes Warm Spring located?
Rhodes Warm Spring is located in Park County, Colorado at 10,172 feet elevation, near Fairplay. Coordinates: 39.1640°N, 106.0620°W.
How do I get to Rhodes Warm Spring?
Rhodes Warm Spring has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Warm Springs Road (358 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Rhodes Warm Spring?
Yes, Horseshoe Campground is located nearby (2.9 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Rhodes Warm Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride, Iron. The pH is 7.5 (slightly alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Rhodes Warm Spring?
Rhodes Warm Spring is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Rhodes Warm Spring crowded?
Rhodes Warm Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Rhodes Warm Spring?
Essentials for Rhodes Warm Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, warm layers for before and after soaking, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.