Elk Creek Hot Spring surfaces at 126 degrees F in the high sagebrush country of Camas County, running 84 degrees above ambient air temperature at 5,660 feet elevation. A short 350-foot walk from the nearest road leads to the spring, which carries 302 mg/L of total dissolved solids and a pH of 9.0, indicating deep geothermal circulation through alkaline rock.
The spring emerges where Elk Creek cuts through rolling hills covered in sagebrush and bunchgrass, with scattered stands of aspen and Douglas fir at higher elevations nearby. The terrain feels vast and open, characteristic of central Idaho's high plateau country between the Soldier Mountains and the Smoky Range. Mineral deposits color the ground near the source, and the warm outflow supports a strip of green vegetation that stands out against the dry surroundings. Wind is a near-constant presence at this elevation.
History of Elk Creek Hot Spring
Elk Creek sits along one of several northwest-trending fault zones in the region that tap deep thermal reservoirs. The water chemistry, with 92 mg/L sodium, 42 mg/L sulfate, and negligible magnesium at 0.01 mg/L, points to prolonged contact with granitic basement rock at depth. The USGS has measured the source at 54 degrees C. Camas County takes its name from the camas lily bulbs that Shoshone-Bannock people historically harvested from the nearby prairie, a food source that shaped regional settlement patterns.
The nearest developed campground is Bowns Campground, 18 miles away along Big Smoky Creek, with 10 free first-come sites, fire rings, and seasonal drinking water. The 350-foot walk to the spring is on open terrain. At 126 degrees F, the source water is too hot for direct contact without mixing. Annual snowfall averages over 7 feet, limiting reliable access to roughly June through October.
Is Elk Creek Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Overnight camping trips
Elk Creek Hot Spring is well suited for hot spring soaking and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 20.8 in
Annual Snow: 87.4 in
December
Air 19°F · Water 126°F · +108° contrast
January
Air 20°F · Water 126°F · +106° contrast
February
Air 22°F · Water 126°F · +104° contrast
December offers 52°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
129.2°F
(54.0°C)
Measured May 03, 1989
The water at Elk Creek Hot Spring is alkaline (pH 9.0) with 302 mg/L total dissolved solids.
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
Higher mineral concentration for therapeutic soaking
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
Bowns Campground, located 25 miles east of Featherville and 18 miles north of Fairfield, is a developed campground composed of 10 units along Big Smoky Creek. Two of the camp sites are double family units. Camping, fishing, hiking, and picnicking are popular activities. Campground amenities include picnic tables, fire rings, drinking water (seasonally) and restrooms. Miller Creek Trail (#087) starts just south of the campground and is open to motorcycles.
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 Bowns Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
36 miles from Fairfield, ID
USGS Quad: BLAINE 15 · PP 492: 138.0 · NOAA: 15.0 · AMS Map: HAILEY
What is the water temperature at Elk Creek Hot Spring?
Elk Creek Hot Spring has a water temperature of 126°F (52°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Elk Creek Hot Spring located?
Elk Creek Hot Spring is located in Camas County, Idaho at 5,660 feet elevation, near Fairfield. Coordinates: 43.4230°N, 114.6270°W.
How do I get to Elk Creek Hot Spring?
Elk Creek Hot Spring has Short Walk road access (355 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Elk Creek Hot Spring?
Yes, Bowns Campground is located nearby (18.0 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Elk Creek Hot Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 9.0 (alkaline). Total dissolved solids measure 302 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at Elk Creek Hot Spring?
At 126°F, Elk Creek Hot Spring 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 Elk Creek Hot Spring crowded?
Elk Creek Hot Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Elk Creek Hot Spring?
Essentials for Elk Creek Hot Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, warm layers for before and after soaking, 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.