Lick Creek Warm Spring flows at 91 degrees Fahrenheit along Lick Creek Road in the Payette National Forest, warm enough for a comfortable soak on all but the hottest summer days. At 4,390 feet near McCall, this spring delivers a gentle 48-degree temperature boost above the cool mountain air.
The spring pools along a forested creek bottom where lodgepole pine and Douglas fir crowd the banks. Lick Creek runs clear and cold nearby, offering the option to adjust soaking temperature by channeling creek water into the warm pools. The forest here is thick enough to block wind but open enough to let afternoon light reach the water. With 154 inches of annual snow and over 33 inches of precipitation, the surrounding vegetation is lush and green through the summer months.
History of Lick Creek Warm Spring
USGS data shows 31.5 degrees Celsius with a pH of 9.0 and sodium at 90 milligrams per liter, reflecting the alkaline signature of water circulating through the granitic bedrock common to this part of the Payette National Forest. The spring's moderate temperature suggests a shallower circulation path than the superheated springs found deeper in the Idaho Batholith to the south and east.
The spring is about a 110-meter walk from Lick Creek Road. Upper Payette Lake Campground, roughly 17 miles toward McCall on the shores of Upper Payette Lake, offers reservable sites with fishing and canoeing access. McCall, about 16 miles away, has full services including groceries and gear shops. The spring is most enjoyable from late spring through fall, as deep snow can make winter access challenging.
Is Lick Creek Warm Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Warm-water soaking
- Overnight camping trips
Lick Creek Warm Spring is well suited for warm-water soaking and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 33.7 in
Annual Snow: 153.8 in
December
Air 23°F · Water 91°F · +68° contrast
January
Air 25°F · Water 91°F · +66° contrast
February
Air 27°F · Water 91°F · +64° contrast
December offers 45°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
88.7°F
(31.5°C)
Measured Aug 26, 1980
The water at Lick Creek Warm Spring is alkaline (pH 9.0).
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
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
Overview
Upper Payette Lake Campground is located 16 miles from McCall, Idaho, on the shores of beautiful Upper Payette Lake. Visitors enjoy fishing, canoeing and exploring local trails.
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.gov/mobile-app prior to your arrival as so...
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 Upper Payette Lake Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
USGS Quad: (ENOS LAKE 7.5) · PP 492: 23.0 · NOAA: 5.0 · AMS Map: ELK CITY
What is the water temperature at Lick Creek Warm Spring?
Lick Creek Warm Spring has a water temperature of 91°F (33°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Lick Creek Warm Spring located?
Lick Creek Warm Spring is located in Valley County, Idaho at 4,390 feet elevation, near McCall. Coordinates: 45.0700°N, 115.8260°W.
How do I get to Lick Creek Warm Spring?
Lick Creek Warm Spring has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Lick Creek Road (369 ft from the road).
Is Lick Creek Warm Spring free to visit?
Lick Creek Warm Spring has Open access. It is managed by US Forest Service.
Can I camp near Lick Creek Warm Spring?
Yes, Upper Payette Lake Campground is located nearby (10.6 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Lick Creek Warm Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 9.0 (alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Lick Creek Warm Spring?
Lick Creek Warm Spring is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Lick Creek Warm Spring crowded?
Lick Creek Warm Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Lick Creek Warm Spring?
Essentials for Lick Creek Warm Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, warm layers for before and after soaking, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.