Queens River Hot Spring registers 123 degrees Fahrenheit according to recent USGS measurements, with an alkaline pH of 9.6 and low mineral content. It sits roadside along West China Basin Road in the Boise National Forest at 5,080 feet elevation, just 250 feet from the gravel surface in the rugged Queens River drainage.
This is high, remote forest country even by Idaho standards. The area receives over 15 feet of snow annually, and the landscape is a mix of lodgepole pine, subalpine fir, and open meadow. The spring emerges near the road cut, its water clear with a slightly slippery, alkaline feel from the sodium-dominant chemistry. The old mining town of Atlanta sits a few miles away, reachable by rough forest roads.
History of Queens River Hot Spring
The Queens River area lies within the Atlanta lobe of the Idaho Batholith, where Cretaceous granite hosts numerous thermal features. Water chemistry shows very low calcium at 3.2 mg/L alongside 48 mg/L sodium, indicating long residence time in silicate rock with minimal limestone contact. The spring's heat source is residual plutonic warmth channeled upward through fracture networks.
West China Basin Road provides direct access, though conditions vary with season and maintenance. Atlanta Cabin, a reservable historic Forest Service rental about 3.7 miles away, offers overnight accommodation in a 1933 CCC-built structure. The road to Atlanta is long and rough from any direction. Plan for self-sufficiency and check current road conditions before departing.
Is Queens River Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Queens River Hot Spring is well suited for easy day trips and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 35.1 in
Annual Snow: 181.9 in
Recent Temperature
122.9°F
(50.5°C)
Measured Sep 02, 1981
The water at Queens River Hot Spring is alkaline (pH 9.6).
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
Atlanta Cabin is located in the old mining town of Atlanta, Idaho, at an elevation of 5,800 feet. It is part of a historic ranger station compound built by the Civilian Conservation Corps and the Forest Service in 1933. This compound, known as the Atlanta Ranger Station Historic District, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.The roads to the cabin are generally well-maintained, although there are some rough washboard sections. Guests can drive to the cabin, but shoul...
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 Atlanta Cabin
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
4 miles from Fairfield, ID
USGS Quad: ATLANTA WEST 7.5 · NOAA: 1.0 · AMS Map: HAILEY
What is the water temperature at Queens River Hot Spring?
Queens River Hot Spring is classified as hot. An exact temperature measurement has not been recorded.
Where is Queens River Hot Spring located?
Queens River Hot Spring is located in Camas County, Idaho at 5,080 feet elevation, near Fairfield. Coordinates: 43.8310°N, 115.1920°W.
How do I get to Queens River Hot Spring?
Queens River Hot Spring has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being West China Basin Road (252 ft from the road).
Is Queens River Hot Spring free to visit?
Queens River Hot Spring has Open access. It is managed by US Forest Service.
Can I camp near Queens River Hot Spring?
Yes, Atlanta Cabin is located nearby (3.7 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Queens River Hot Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 9.6 (alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Queens River Hot Spring?
Queens River Hot Spring is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Queens River Hot Spring crowded?
Queens River Hot 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 Queens River Hot Spring?
Essentials for Queens River 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.