Prices Warm Spring

Oneida County County, Idaho · Near Malad City
42.0250°N, 112.2260°W · 4,437 ft
77°F 4,437 ft Short Walk Camping nearby (12.7 mi)
Prices Warm Spring
File:M 4211263 sw 12 060 20210620.tif — public domain

Prices Warm Spring near Malad City flows at just 77 degrees Fahrenheit, roughly 27 degrees above the surrounding air temperature. This is a warm spring rather than a hot one, sitting at 4,437 feet in Oneida County's dry sagebrush terrain where annual precipitation barely tops 18 inches.

The landscape here is open and arid, classic southeastern Idaho basin-and-range country. Low hills of sage and bunchgrass surround the spring, and the sky feels enormous. The water temperature hovers near body temperature, making it more refreshing than warming. The nearest road is about 180 meters away, a short walk across level ground that provides a modest buffer from traffic noise.

History of Prices Warm Spring

Oneida County sits along the northern edge of the Basin and Range geological province, where crustal extension creates faults that allow groundwater to circulate to moderate depths before resurfacing. The relatively low temperature suggests a shallow circulation path or significant mixing with cooler groundwater before the spring reaches the surface.

Access requires a short walk of roughly 590 feet from the road. Third Creek Group Site, about 12.5 miles away, offers reservable group camping near Deep Creek Reservoir with trailhead access to the Oxford Peak Trail System. Expect cold winters with about four feet of annual snowfall and warm, dry summers.

Is Prices Warm Spring worth visiting?

Best for

  • Overnight camping trips
Prices Warm Spring is well suited for overnight camping trips.
Monthly Climate
24°
Jan
29°
Feb
39°
Mar
46°
Apr
56°
May
68°
Jun
78°
Jul
77°
Aug
66°
Sep
51°
Oct
38°
Nov
25°
Dec
Annual Precip: 18.1 in Annual Snow: 46.0 in
Best Time to Visit
January Air 24°F · Water 77°F · +53° contrast
December Air 25°F · Water 77°F · +52° contrast
February Air 29°F · Water 77°F · +48° contrast
January offers 54°F more contrast than July
Nearby Camping
Third Creek Group Site 12.7 mi away

Overview Third Creek Group Campground is located just 12 miles northeast of Malad, Idaho, on the Weston Highway near Deep Creek Reservoir. Visitors enjoy exploring the local trail system and fishing at Deep Creek.Recreation Third Creek Trailhead is adjacent to the campground, complete with hitching racks for horses. It accesses the Oxford Peak Trail System and is open to hikers, bikers, motorcyclists and off-road vehicle users as well. Deep Creek Reservoir offers good trout, as well as boati...

Reservable Yes
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
What to Bring
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear Nearby camping at Third Creek Group Site
Trash bag Pack out what you pack in
References
USGS Quad: (HENDERSON CREEK 7.5) · PP 492: 195.0 · NOAA: 10.0 · AMS Map: POCATELLO
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Prices Warm Spring?
Prices Warm Spring has a water temperature of 77°F (25°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Prices Warm Spring located?
Prices Warm Spring is located in Oneida County, Idaho at 4,437 feet elevation, near Malad City. Coordinates: 42.0250°N, 112.2260°W.
How do I get to Prices Warm Spring?
Prices Warm Spring has Short Walk road access (0.1 mi from the road).
Can I camp near Prices Warm Spring?
Yes, Third Creek Group Site is located nearby (12.7 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Prices Warm Spring?
Prices Warm Spring is generally safe for soaking at its recorded 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 Prices Warm Spring crowded?
Prices Warm Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Prices Warm Spring?
Essentials for Prices Warm Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.
Temperature
77°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 77°F (25°C)
Avg Air Temp 50°F
Above Ambient +27°F
Good soaking conditions March
Access
Road Access Short Walk
Distance to Road 0.1 mi