Paradise Hot Springs runs 126 degrees Fahrenheit from alkaline sources at 4,480 feet in Idaho's Camas County, with a pH of 9.5 and steady half-cubic-foot-per-second flow that keeps its pools well circulated. The sodium-dominant water chemistry and low calcium content make for notably soft-feeling water.
The spring sits in a high-desert valley flanked by sagebrush-covered hills, about 200 meters off Grouse Creek Road via a short walk. At this elevation, winters bring nearly eight feet of snow, and ambient temperatures average just 45 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. The South Fork Boise River corridor lies nearby, and the surrounding terrain mixes open grassland with scattered timber stands along creek drainages. Summer evenings cool quickly at this altitude, making the 126-degree source especially welcome after sundown.
History of Paradise Hot Springs
Thermal activity here traces to deep fault systems running through central Idaho's volcanic province. The 9.5 pH and low calcium signature suggest the water travels through silicic rock at significant depth before surfacing. USGS measurements confirm temperatures of 53 degrees Celsius, consistent with the original 1980 NOAA survey data. The Camas Prairie, historically a Shoshone-Bannock gathering ground, sits in a graben formed by Basin and Range extension.
Elks Flat Campground lies under 2 miles away and accepts reservations. The short walk from Grouse Creek Road is straightforward in dry conditions but can be muddy in spring. Source temperature of 126 degrees Fahrenheit requires mixing with cooler water before soaking. Best visited June through October, though accessible year-round with appropriate gear.
Is Paradise Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Overnight camping trips
Paradise Hot Springs is well suited for hot spring soaking and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 24.2 in
Annual Snow: 94.9 in
December
Air 22°F · Water 126°F · +104° contrast
January
Air 24°F · Water 126°F · +102° contrast
February
Air 27°F · Water 126°F · +99° contrast
December offers 49°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
127.4°F
(53.0°C)
Measured Jul 16, 1981
Discharge
0.5 ft³/s
Measured Oct 14, 1977
The water at Paradise Hot Springs is alkaline (pH 9.5).
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
May support bone density and joint health
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
Overview
Elks Flat Campground is situated on the banks of the South Fork Boise River, at the foot of the Trinity Mountain Range in Idaho. It is five miles north of the town of Pine. Visitors enjoy fishing, swimming and exploring trails in the surrounding area. Recreation
The South Fork Boise River runs along the eastern edge of the campground, offering rafting, swimming and fishing for rainbow trout. Paradise Hot Springs is nearby.
Green Creek Trail 270, a 4.5-mile trail for hiking, horsebac...
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 Elks Flat Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
19 miles from Fairfield, ID
USGS Quad: FEATHERVILLE 7.5 · PP 492: 129.0 · NOAA: 22.0 · AMS Map: HAILEY
What is the water temperature at Paradise Hot Springs?
Paradise Hot Springs has a water temperature of 126°F (52°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Paradise Hot Springs located?
Paradise Hot Springs is located in Camas County, Idaho at 4,480 feet elevation, near Fairfield. Coordinates: 43.5530°N, 115.2670°W.
How do I get to Paradise Hot Springs?
Paradise Hot Springs has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Grouse Creek Road (0.1 mi from the road).
Can I camp near Paradise Hot Springs?
Yes, Elks Flat Campground is located nearby (1.8 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Paradise Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 9.5 (alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Paradise Hot Springs?
At 126°F, Paradise Hot Springs 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 Paradise Hot Springs crowded?
Paradise Hot Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Paradise Hot Springs?
Essentials for Paradise Hot Springs: 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.