Barker Spring

Upson County County, Georgia · Near Hannahs Mill
32.9200°N, 84.4380°W · 760 ft
73°F 760 ft Roadside

Barker Spring maintains 73°F water, a modest 9 degrees above the regional ambient in Georgia's Piedmont, where it emerges roadside and readily accessible near Hannahs Mill.

The spring flows through rolling terrain at 760 feet elevation, where gentle slopes transition toward the Chattahoochee River basin. Clear water emerges along Crest Highway with minimal vegetation barrier, creating an intimate and easily reached thermal pool in the pastoral Georgia uplands.

History of Barker Spring

This spring sits in the Piedmont physiographic province, where Archean bedrock underlies deep weathered soils. The warmth likely derives from normal geothermal gradient in crystalline basement rock, common throughout Georgia's thermal springs.

Park along Crest Highway and walk just 93 meters (305 feet) to the pool. Spring water averages 73°F year-round, pleasant in summer and mild during Georgia's short winters. Annual rainfall of 48 inches supports lush riparian vegetation.

Is Barker Spring worth visiting?

Best for

  • Easy day trips
Barker Spring is well suited for easy day trips.
Monthly Climate
45°
Jan
50°
Feb
56°
Mar
64°
Apr
71°
May
77°
Jun
79°
Jul
79°
Aug
75°
Sep
66°
Oct
54°
Nov
50°
Dec
Annual Precip: 47.8 in Annual Snow: 0.7 in
Best Time to Visit
January Air 45°F · Water 73°F · +28° contrast
February Air 50°F · Water 73°F · +23° contrast
December Air 50°F · Water 73°F · +23° contrast
January offers 34°F more contrast than August
What to Bring
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Trash bag Pack out what you pack in
References
USGS Quad: SUNSET VILLAGE 7.5 · PP 492: 5.0 · NOAA: 2.0 · AMS Map: PHENIX CITY
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Barker Spring?
Barker Spring has a water temperature of 73°F (23°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Barker Spring located?
Barker Spring is located in Upson County, Georgia at 760 feet elevation, near Hannahs Mill. Coordinates: 32.9200°N, 84.4380°W.
How do I get to Barker Spring?
Barker Spring has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being Crest Highway (304 ft from the road).
Is it safe to soak at Barker Spring?
Barker 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 Barker Spring crowded?
Barker Spring is accessible from a paved road, making it easy to reach. Weekends and holidays may be busier — consider visiting on a weekday for a quieter experience.
What should I bring to Barker Spring?
Essentials for Barker Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.
Temperature
73°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 73°F (23°C)
Avg Air Temp 64°F
Above Ambient +9°F
Mild soaking conditions March
Access
Road Access Roadside
Nearest Road Crest Highway
Distance to Road 304 ft