At 183°F, the source water at Battle Creek Hot Springs is hot enough to cause burns. Some hot springs this hot have cooler side pools or downstream areas suitable for soaking — always test the water temperature before entering.
Battle Creek Hot Springs erupts at 183 degrees Fahrenheit with a flow of 3 cubic feet per second, making it one of Idaho's most powerful thermal discharges. The water carries an extraordinary 9,180 mg/L total dissolved solids, including 5,400 mg/L chloride, rivaling ocean salinity.
The spring sits at 4,480 feet near Preston in Franklin County, a short walk from the nearest road. Steam rises visibly from the outflow channels, and mineral deposits crust the surrounding rock in white and orange formations. The water is far too hot for human contact at the source. Runoff channels cut through grassy benchland as the superheated flow cools and deposits its heavy mineral load downstream.
History of Battle Creek Hot Springs
Battle Creek Hot Springs taps into one of southeastern Idaho's deepest hydrothermal systems, evidenced by its extreme temperature and brine-like chemistry. The sodium-chloride dominant water, with 3,100 mg/L sodium, suggests circulation through ancient marine sediments at considerable depth. This geochemistry is unusual for Idaho and more closely resembles geothermal brines found in the Great Basin.
This spring is dangerously hot and not suitable for soaking at the source. Water at 183 degrees Fahrenheit causes severe burns on contact. Observe from a safe distance. Third Creek Group Site, 17 miles away, offers reservable camping near Deep Creek Reservoir. The area receives nearly five feet of snow annually, limiting winter access.
Is Battle Creek Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Overnight camping trips
Mineral-rich therapeutic bathing
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Battle Creek Hot Springs is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and overnight camping trips.
Monthly Climate
22°Jan
27°Feb
37°Mar
45°Apr
54°May
66°Jun
76°Jul
74°Aug
64°Sep
49°Oct
35°Nov
23°Dec
Annual Precip: 20.9 inAnnual Snow: 56.9 in
Best Time to Visit
JanuaryAir 22°F · Water 183°F · +161° contrast
DecemberAir 23°F · Water 183°F · +160° contrast
FebruaryAir 27°F · Water 183°F · +156° contrast
January offers 54°F more contrast than July
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature
170.6°F
(77.0°C)Measured May 09, 1972
Discharge
3.0 ft³/s
Measured May 09, 1972
Water ChemistrySampled 1972-05-09
The water at Battle Creek Hot Springs is neutral (pH 7.0) with 9180 mg/L total dissolved solids. It is notably rich in calcium (may support bone density and joint health), sodium (supports circulation and skin hydration), and chloride (natural antiseptic with skin health benefits).
Overview
Third Creek Group Campground is located just 12 miles northeast of Malad, Idaho, on the Weston Highway near Deep Creek Reservoir. Visitors enjoy exploring the local trail system and fishing at Deep Creek.Recreation
Third Creek Trailhead is adjacent to the campground, complete with hitching racks for horses. It accesses the Oxford Peak Trail System and is open to hikers, bikers, motorcyclists and off-road vehicle users as well.
Deep Creek Reservoir offers good trout, as well as boati...
What is the water temperature at Battle Creek Hot Springs?
Battle Creek Hot Springs has a water temperature of 183°F (84°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Battle Creek Hot Springs located?
Battle Creek Hot Springs is located in Franklin County, Idaho at 4,480 feet elevation, near Preston. Coordinates: 42.1330°N, 111.9280°W.
How do I get to Battle Creek Hot Springs?
Battle Creek Hot Springs has Short Walk road access (0.1 mi from the road).
Can I camp near Battle Creek Hot Springs?
Yes, Third Creek Group Site is located nearby (10.7 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Battle Creek Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 7.0 (neutral). Total dissolved solids measure 9,180 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at Battle Creek Hot Springs?
The water at Battle Creek Hot Springs reaches 183°F, which can cause severe burns. Do not enter the source pool directly — look for cooled side pools or downstream areas where the water has cooled to a safe 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 Battle Creek Hot Springs crowded?
Battle Creek Hot Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Battle Creek Hot Springs?
Essentials for Battle Creek Hot Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in. The water is over 110°F — test the temperature before entering and watch for scalding near the source.