At 151°F, the source water at Cleveland 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.
Cleveland Hot Springs pushes 151-degree Fahrenheit water to the surface near Preston in southeastern Idaho, making it one of the hotter springs in Franklin County. Its sodium-chloride chemistry, with 630 mg/L chloride and 490 mg/L sodium, sets it apart from the alkaline volcanic springs found across most of the state.
A short walk of roughly 475 feet from Maple Grove Road leads to the spring at 4,900 feet elevation. The water carries a noticeable mineral tang from its heavy dissolved load, and the ground around the source is stained and crusted with precipitated salts. The surrounding landscape leans toward dry rangeland and scattered groves rather than dense forest. Over 80 inches of snow fall here annually, and the thermal plume can be visible from some distance during cold months.
History of Cleveland Hot Springs
Cleveland's water chemistry resembles deep-circulating Basin and Range geothermal fluids rather than the low-chloride volcanic waters typical of central Idaho. The 630 mg/L chloride, 260 mg/L sulfate, and 490 mg/L sodium suggest contact with ancient sedimentary formations at considerable depth. A near-neutral pH of 7.3 further distinguishes it from the alkaline springs to the north and west. Recent USGS measurements confirmed source temperatures at 76 degrees Celsius.
Maple Grove Campground sits about 5.6 miles away and operates on a first-come, first-served basis at five dollars per night per vehicle with a 14-day stay limit. The campground has vault toilets, fire rings, and a boat ramp but no dumpsters, so pack out all trash. The spring itself is too hot for direct contact at the source. Check conditions before visiting in winter.
Is Cleveland Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Cleveland Hot Springs is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and overnight camping trips.
Monthly Climate
24°Jan
28°Feb
36°Mar
42°Apr
53°May
65°Jun
74°Jul
73°Aug
63°Sep
48°Oct
34°Nov
23°Dec
Annual Precip: 22.0 inAnnual Snow: 82.6 in
Best Time to Visit
DecemberAir 23°F · Water 151°F · +128° contrast
JanuaryAir 24°F · Water 151°F · +127° contrast
FebruaryAir 28°F · Water 151°F · +124° contrast
December offers 51°F more contrast than July
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature
168.8°F
(76.0°C)Measured May 10, 1972
Water ChemistrySampled 1972-05-10
The water at Cleveland Hot Springs is slightly alkaline (pH 7.3). It is notably rich in sodium (supports circulation and skin hydration), sulfate (traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation), and chloride (natural antiseptic with skin health benefits).
Campground rules and regulations are posted at the site. There are no dumpsters on site, visitors must pack in and out their trash.
Campsites: 12 developed sites--- At this time, there is not a reservation system in place for the campsites. Campsites are on a first come first serve basis.
Overnight Camping Fees: $5.00 per vehicle/ per night
This site is equipped picnic tables, fire rings, vault toilets, horseshoe pits, and boat ramp with a dock. There is no Day-use allowed and facilities a...
What is the water temperature at Cleveland Hot Springs?
Cleveland Hot Springs has a water temperature of 151°F (66°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Cleveland Hot Springs located?
Cleveland Hot Springs is located in Franklin County, Idaho at 4,900 feet elevation, near Preston. Coordinates: 42.3330°N, 111.7160°W.
How do I get to Cleveland Hot Springs?
Cleveland Hot Springs has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Maple Grove Road (474 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Cleveland Hot Springs?
Yes, Maple Grove Campground is located nearby (3.5 miles away). $5/vehicle/night.
What minerals are in the water at Cleveland Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 7.3 (slightly alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Cleveland Hot Springs?
The water at Cleveland Hot Springs reaches 151°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 Cleveland Hot Springs crowded?
Cleveland Hot Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Cleveland Hot Springs?
Essentials for Cleveland 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.