File:Let's Talk A Walk In The Woods (14107937796).jpg — public domain
Bridge Hot Springs surfaces at 138 degrees Fahrenheit right alongside East Hot Springs Drive in central Idaho, making it one of the most accessible thermal features in Camas County. The highly alkaline water, with a pH of 9.5, indicates deep geothermal circulation through the region's volcanic bedrock beneath this 4,358-foot valley near Fairfield.
Steam curls off the channel where mineral-laden water meets cool high-desert air. At this elevation the surrounding Camas Prairie stretches wide and treeless, ringed by distant snow-dusted mountains. The water runs clear with a faintly slick, soapy texture characteristic of its high alkalinity. Sagebrush and dry grass line the banks, and the smell of sulfur is mild. Winter brings nearly eight feet of snow to this valley, blanketing the landscape while the spring keeps flowing at its steady 138 degrees.
History of Bridge Hot Springs
The spring taps into a geothermal system that runs beneath much of the South Fork Boise River drainage. USGS measurements confirm source temperatures of 59 degrees Celsius. Elks Flat Campground sits less than half a mile away along the South Fork Boise River, a corridor that early miners and ranchers used heavily in the 1860s, drawn by both gold prospects and the reliable hot water flowing from fractures in the Idaho Batholith.
The spring sits just 113 feet from East Hot Springs Drive, so no hiking is required. Elks Flat Campground is under a mile away and offers reservable sites along the South Fork Boise River. Water emerges dangerously hot at 138 degrees; test carefully before any contact. The area sees heavy snow through winter, so check road conditions from November through April.
Is Bridge Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Bridge Hot Springs offers an accessible hot spring experience — great for a day trip.
Annual Precip: 24.2 in
Annual Snow: 94.9 in
December
Air 23°F · Water 138°F · +115° contrast
January
Air 25°F · Water 138°F · +113° contrast
February
Air 28°F · Water 138°F · +110° contrast
December offers 49°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
138.2°F
(59.0°C)
Measured Aug 04, 1981
The water at Bridge Hot Springs is alkaline (pH 9.5).
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
Overview
Elks Flat Campground is situated on the banks of the South Fork Boise River, at the foot of the Trinity Mountain Range in Idaho. It is five miles north of the town of Pine. Visitors enjoy fishing, swimming and exploring trails in the surrounding area. Recreation
The South Fork Boise River runs along the eastern edge of the campground, offering rafting, swimming and fishing for rainbow trout. Paradise Hot Springs is nearby.
Green Creek Trail 270, a 4.5-mile trail for hiking, horsebac...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Elks Flat Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
21 miles from Fairfield, ID
USGS Quad: (FEATHERVILLE 7.5) · PP 492: 128.0 · NOAA: 23.0 · AMS Map: HAILEY
What is the water temperature at Bridge Hot Springs?
Bridge Hot Springs has a water temperature of 138°F (59°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Bridge Hot Springs located?
Bridge Hot Springs is located in Camas County, Idaho at 4,358 feet elevation, near Fairfield. Coordinates: 43.5400°N, 115.2880°W.
How do I get to Bridge Hot Springs?
Bridge Hot Springs has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being East Hot Springs drive (113 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Bridge Hot Springs?
Yes, Elks Flat Campground is located nearby (0.4 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Bridge Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH. The pH is 9.5 (alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Bridge Hot Springs?
At 138°F, Bridge Hot Springs is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Bridge Hot Springs crowded?
Bridge 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 Bridge Hot Springs?
Essentials for Bridge 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.