Barney Hot Springs flows at 82 degrees Fahrenheit on BLM land along Pahsimeroi Road in Butte County, offering a mellow warm soak at 6,435 feet elevation in the sagebrush rangeland east of Arco. The spring sits just 1.6 meters from the road, essentially emerging from the roadside itself. Public access is open under federal management.
The Pahsimeroi Valley stretches long and narrow between the Lemhi and Lost River ranges, both exceeding 10,000 feet. The valley floor is classic high-desert ranching country: dry grass, sage, and scattered willows along creek bottoms. Annual precipitation reaches only 15 inches, most of it falling as snow. The spring seeps out at road level, its warm water contrasting with the cold air of a valley where winter nights routinely plunge well below zero.
History of Barney Hot Springs
The Pahsimeroi Valley sits in a graben, a down-dropped block between parallel mountain-front faults. These deep fractures allow groundwater to circulate to significant depth, picking up modest heat before returning to the surface. Barney Hot Springs' calcium-magnesium chemistry with moderate sulfate suggests contact with sedimentary and metamorphic rocks rather than the granitic batholith that feeds hotter springs to the west.
The spring is literally roadside on Pahsimeroi Road, requiring no walking. BLM land with open public access means no permits needed. Meadow Lake Campground sits 21 miles away at 9,160 feet in the Lemhi Range and accepts reservations, though the elevation difference is substantial. The 82-degree water feels warm but not hot, suitable for cooling off after hiking rather than a true hot soak. Best visited May through October.
Is Barney Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Warm-water soaking
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Barney Hot Springs is well suited for warm-water soaking and easy day trips.
Annual Precip: 15.6 in
Annual Snow: 62.5 in
December
Air 16°F · Water 82°F · +66° contrast
January
Air 18°F · Water 82°F · +64° contrast
February
Air 19°F · Water 82°F · +63° contrast
December offers 52°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
78.8°F
(26.0°C)
Measured Nov 07, 1984
The water at Barney Hot Springs is slightly alkaline (pH 8.2).
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
Overview
Meadow Lake Campground is located on the Leadore Ranger District of the Salmon-Challis National Forest. This high alpine campground sits at an elevation of 9,160 feet in the Lemhi Mountain Range, 22 miles from Leadore, Idaho.Recreation
There's no lack of recreational opportunities around Meadow Lake Campground. The lake is stocked twice a year so the fish are always biting. Fish from the bank or carry your boat down to the lake and try from the water, as there is no boat ramp or boat...
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 Meadow Lake Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
USGS Quad: GILMORE 15 · PP 492: 108.0 · NOAA: 4.0 · AMS Map: DUBOIS
What is the water temperature at Barney Hot Springs?
Barney Hot Springs has a water temperature of 82°F (28°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Barney Hot Springs located?
Barney Hot Springs is located in Butte County, Idaho at 6,435 feet elevation, near Arco. Coordinates: 44.2690°N, 113.4490°W.
How do I get to Barney Hot Springs?
Barney Hot Springs has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being Pahsimeroi Road (5 ft from the road).
Is Barney Hot Springs free to visit?
Barney Hot Springs has Open access. It is managed by Bureau of Land Management.
Can I camp near Barney Hot Springs?
Yes, Meadow Lake Campground is located nearby (13.2 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Barney Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 8.2 (slightly alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Barney Hot Springs?
Barney Hot Springs is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Barney Hot Springs crowded?
Barney Hot Springs 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 Barney Hot Springs?
Essentials for Barney Hot Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, warm layers for before and after soaking, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.