At 198°F, the source water at Crane 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.
Crane Creek Hot Springs runs at 198 degrees Fahrenheit, just shy of boiling at its 2,400-foot elevation in western Idaho. This near-boiling thermal feature produces only a trickle of flow at 0.01 cubic feet per second, but the extreme temperature signals a deep geothermal source beneath Washington County's high desert landscape.
The spring emerges in the dry, open terrain outside Weiser, where sagebrush and bunchgrass dominate the rolling hills. The air smells faintly of sulfur and mineral deposits line the outflow channels in white and ochre streaks. At 2,400 feet, the landscape is arid, receiving just 12.8 inches of rain annually. Summer temperatures push into the 90s while winter brings light snow. Lower Crane Road passes within 640 feet, and the surrounding countryside feels quiet and unvisited.
History of Crane Creek Hot Springs
The spring taps into the same deep fault systems that make Idaho one of the most geothermally productive states in the country. Water chemistry shows 280 mg/L sodium and 250 mg/L sulfate, consistent with long residence time in hot basement rock. The near-neutral pH of 7.8 indicates the water has equilibrated with surrounding formations before surfacing. USGS measurements confirm a source temperature of 85 degrees Celsius.
This is a look-but-do-not-touch spring. At 198 degrees Fahrenheit, the water causes instant scalding. Approach cautiously and keep children and pets well back. The nearest established campground is Mann Creek Campground, about 11 miles away near Mann Creek Reservoir, which accepts reservations. The spring sits roughly 640 feet from Lower Crane Road.
Is Crane Creek Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Crane Creek Hot Springs is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and overnight camping trips.
Monthly Climate
29°Jan
35°Feb
44°Mar
51°Apr
61°May
70°Jun
81°Jul
80°Aug
69°Sep
53°Oct
40°Nov
31°Dec
Annual Precip: 12.8 inAnnual Snow: 20.0 in
Best Time to Visit
JanuaryAir 29°F · Water 198°F · +169° contrast
DecemberAir 31°F · Water 198°F · +167° contrast
FebruaryAir 35°F · Water 198°F · +163° contrast
January offers 52°F more contrast than July
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature
185.0°F
(85.0°C)Measured Aug 19, 1991
Discharge
0.01 ft³/s
Measured Aug 02, 1973
Water ChemistrySampled 1973-08-02
The water at Crane Creek Hot Springs is slightly alkaline (pH 7.8). It is notably rich in sulfate (traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation) and chloride (natural antiseptic with skin health benefits).
Overview
Mann Creek Campground is located near the Mann Creek Reservoir in the foothills of the West Central Mountains in western Idaho near the Payette National Forest. The reservoir is a popular boating and fishing destination.
Once on-site, you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature. If this option is available, you will need to first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation....
What is the water temperature at Crane Creek Hot Springs?
Crane Creek Hot Springs has a water temperature of 198°F (92°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Crane Creek Hot Springs located?
Crane Creek Hot Springs is located in Washington County, Idaho at 2,400 feet elevation, near Weiser. Coordinates: 44.3060°N, 116.7450°W.
How do I get to Crane Creek Hot Springs?
Crane Creek Hot Springs has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Lower Crane Road (0.1 mi from the road).
Can I camp near Crane Creek Hot Springs?
Yes, Mann Creek Campground is located nearby (11.0 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Crane Creek Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 7.8 (slightly alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Crane Creek Hot Springs?
The water at Crane Creek Hot Springs reaches 198°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 Crane Creek Hot Springs crowded?
Crane Creek Hot Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Crane Creek Hot Springs?
Essentials for Crane 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.