At 142°F, the source water at Teapot Hot Spring is hot enough to cause burns. Some hot springs this hot have cooler side pools or downstream areas suitable for soaking — always test the water temperature before entering.
File:M 4411503 sw 11 060 20210921.tif — public domain
Teapot Hot Spring reaches 142°F with a strongly alkaline pH of 9.3, making it one of the hotter sodium-dominant springs in central Idaho. Located on federal land within Payette National Forest at 3,900 feet elevation, it sits just 40 meters from South Fork Salmon River Road, providing direct roadside access on public land.
The spring emerges in a forested mountain corridor along the South Fork of the Salmon River in Valley County. At 3,900 feet, the surrounding landscape is dense conifer forest typical of the Payette National Forest, with the river canyon cutting through steep, timbered slopes. The area receives 151 inches of snow annually and averages 46.8°F year-round, creating a cold-climate mountain environment where thermal water stands out sharply against the landscape.
History of Teapot Hot Spring
The spring takes its name from its appearance or discharge pattern, though specific historical documentation is limited. It lies within the broader South Fork Salmon River corridor, a drainage historically used by Shoshone-Bannock peoples and later by miners and trappers in the 19th century. The Forest Service currently manages the site as open-access within Payette National Forest.
Summer through early fall provides the most reliable access, as the area receives heavy snowfall from November through April. South Fork Salmon River Road is a gravel route that may be rough or impassable in winter and spring. No facilities exist at the spring itself. The nearest reservable lodging is Johnson Creek Guard Station, a 1922-era cabin about 19 km away. Water temperature is scalding — test carefully before contact.
Is Teapot Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Easy day trips
Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Teapot Hot Spring is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and easy day trips.
Monthly Climate
29°Jan
31°Feb
37°Mar
42°Apr
49°May
60°Jun
72°Jul
72°Aug
61°Sep
47°Oct
34°Nov
26°Dec
Annual Precip: 32.9 inAnnual Snow: 151.0 in
Best Time to Visit
DecemberAir 26°F · Water 142°F · +116° contrast
JanuaryAir 29°F · Water 142°F · +113° contrast
FebruaryAir 31°F · Water 142°F · +111° contrast
December offers 46°F more contrast than July
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature
143.6°F
(62.0°C)Measured Jul 28, 1982
Water ChemistrySampled 1982-07-28
The water at Teapot Hot Spring is alkaline (pH 9.3).
Overview
Johnson Creek Guard Station was built in 1922 and offers a charming mountain respite with modern conveniences. The cabin offers nearly everything needed for a pleasant and comfortable stay.
Peak season for the cabin is typically early June through late September. It can be accessed by most vehicles via dirt and gravel roads, but trailers are not
recommended.Recreation
The cabin is near several trailheads into the Frank Church - River of No Return Wilderness. These non-motorized tr...
What is the water temperature at Teapot Hot Spring?
Teapot Hot Spring has a water temperature of 142°F (61°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Teapot Hot Spring located?
Teapot Hot Spring is located in Valley County, Idaho at 3,900 feet elevation, near McCall. Coordinates: 44.9140°N, 115.7220°W.
How do I get to Teapot Hot Spring?
Teapot Hot Spring has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being South Fork Salmon River Road (132 ft from the road).
Is Teapot Hot Spring free to visit?
Teapot Hot Spring has Open access. It is managed by US Forest Service.
Can I camp near Teapot Hot Spring?
Yes, Johnson Creek Guard Station is located nearby (12.0 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Teapot Hot Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 9.3 (alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Teapot Hot Spring?
The water at Teapot Hot Spring reaches 142°F, which can cause severe burns. Do not enter the source pool directly — look for cooled side pools or downstream areas where the water has cooled to a safe temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Teapot Hot Spring crowded?
Teapot 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 Teapot Hot Spring?
Essentials for Teapot Hot Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, 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.
Temperature
142°F
WarmHotBoiling
Water Temp142°F (61°C)
Avg Air Temp47°F
Above Ambient+95°F
Perfect soaking weatherMarch
Access
Open
Road AccessRoadside
Nearest RoadSouth Fork Salmon River Road
Distance to Road132 ft
Land
OwnershipFederal
AgencyUS Forest Service
DesignationNational Forest
UnitPayette National Forest
ManagerUS Forest Service
Protection3 - Protected, subject to extractive use