Lower Birch Spring barely qualifies as thermal at 77 degrees Fahrenheit -- just 26 degrees above the ambient air in Owyhee County's desert canyon country. Managed by the BLM's Bruneau Field Office at 4,150 feet elevation, it offers tepid water with a neutral pH of 7.2 and a balanced mineral profile more typical of cool groundwater than a true hot spring.
The Owyhee Plateau south of Murphy is big, dry, and empty. Sagebrush and bunchgrass cover rolling terrain cut by steep-walled canyons, and the sky dominates everything. The spring sits 90 meters from the nearest road at an elevation where summer days bake and winter nights freeze hard. Annual rainfall barely reaches 13 inches, with 26 inches of snow. The water seeps out without much drama, pooling in a small area surrounded by desert scrub and basalt rubble.
History of Lower Birch Spring
Owyhee County sits atop a thick sequence of Miocene basalt flows and rhyolite that cap older sedimentary rocks. Thermal water in this region rises along faults associated with the western Snake River Plain's extension. The modest temperature suggests either shallow circulation or significant mixing with cool groundwater before reaching the surface. Silver City, the nearest campground at 33 kilometers, occupies a partially restored 19th-century mining town where Jordan Creek may still carry mercury from historic operations.
The spring is 90 meters from the road and easy to reach on foot. At 77 degrees, the water feels lukewarm at best and may disappoint anyone expecting a hot soak. Silver City Campground, 33 kilometers away, is first-come, first-served with a 14-day limit, but bring your own water -- the creek near camp may contain mercury from old mining activity. This is remote BLM land with no services; come prepared.
Is Lower Birch Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Lower Birch Spring is well suited for easy day trips and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 12.7 in
Annual Snow: 26.4 in
January
Air 29°F · Water 77°F · +48° contrast
December
Air 29°F · Water 77°F · +48° contrast
February
Air 33°F · Water 77°F · +44° contrast
January offers 49°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
77.0°F
(25.0°C)
Measured Jul 12, 1973
The water at Lower Birch Spring is neutral (pH 7.2).
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
This small campground is located in a partially restored 19th-century mining town. Please plan to bring your own water. Don't use the water running through the campground from Jordan Creek because it may contain mercury from prior mining activity in the area.
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Silver City Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
USGS Quad: ROUGH MOUNTAIN 7.5 · NOAA: 1.0 · AMS Map: JORDAN VALLEY
What is the water temperature at Lower Birch Spring?
Lower Birch Spring has a water temperature of 77°F (25°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Lower Birch Spring located?
Lower Birch Spring is located in Owyhee County, Idaho at 4,150 feet elevation, near Murphy. Coordinates: 42.8650°N, 116.3680°W.
How do I get to Lower Birch Spring?
Lower Birch Spring has Roadside road access (294 ft from the road).
Is Lower Birch Spring free to visit?
Lower Birch Spring has Open access. It is managed by Bureau of Land Management.
Can I camp near Lower Birch Spring?
Yes, Silver City Campground is located nearby (20.6 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Lower Birch Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 7.2 (neutral).
Is it safe to soak at Lower Birch Spring?
Lower Birch Spring is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Lower Birch Spring crowded?
Lower Birch Spring 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 Lower Birch Spring?
Essentials for Lower Birch Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.