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Towne Creek Warm Spring flows at 75°F directly beside Forest Road 114, less than 2 meters from the road surface — among the most immediately accessible thermal features in Idaho. At 4,440 feet in Elmore County, the water has a near-neutral pH of 6.7 with low mineralization, including just 6.8 mg/L sodium.
The spring emerges at the base of the Trinity Mountain Range in a narrow creek drainage shaded by conifers. Dog Creek and the South Fork Boise River flow nearby, creating a well-watered mountain corridor that contrasts with the drier rangelands to the south near Mountain Home. The area receives 94.9 inches of annual snow and averages 46.1°F, with dense forest cover typical of mid-elevation Boise National Forest terrain. Forest Road 114 threads through the drainage, following the creek upstream.
History of Towne Creek Warm Spring
Documentation specific to Towne Creek Warm Spring is limited. The name derives from Towne Creek, a tributary in the South Fork Boise River system. The area near the small community of Pine has long been used for recreation, ranching, and timber harvest. The South Fork Boise corridor attracted miners during Idaho's 1860s gold rush, and Forest Service management has overseen the drainage since the early 1900s.
Accessible from late May through October; Forest Road 114 is a dirt road that becomes impassable with snow and spring runoff. At 75°F the water is warm rather than hot — not a traditional soaking spring. Dog Creek Campground sits just 3.3 km away and provides reservable sites along the creek. The nearby South Fork Boise River offers fishing and rafting. Paradise Hot Springs is also in the vicinity for those seeking hotter water.
Is Towne Creek Warm Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Towne Creek Warm Spring is well suited for easy day trips and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 24.2 in
Annual Snow: 94.9 in
December
Air 23°F · Water 75°F · +52° contrast
January
Air 25°F · Water 75°F · +50° contrast
February
Air 28°F · Water 75°F · +47° contrast
December offers 50°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
49.1°F
(9.5°C)
Measured Aug 04, 1981
The water at Towne Creek Warm Spring is slightly acidic (pH 6.7).
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
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
Overview
Dog Creek Campground is located on the banks of Dog Creek, at the foot of the Trinity Mountain Range. It is four miles from the town of Pine, in south-central Idaho. Visitors enjoy fishing, swimming and exploring local trails. Recreation
The South Fork Boise River is less than a quarter-mile away from 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, horseback riding, biking a...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Dog Creek (Id)
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
26 miles from Mountain Home, ID
USGS Quad: (PINE 7.5) · NOAA: 24.0 · AMS Map: HAILEY
What is the water temperature at Towne Creek Warm Spring?
Towne Creek Warm Spring has a water temperature of 75°F (24°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Towne Creek Warm Spring located?
Towne Creek Warm Spring is located in Elmore County, Idaho at 4,440 feet elevation, near Mountain Home. Coordinates: 43.5000°N, 115.3080°W.
How do I get to Towne Creek Warm Spring?
Towne Creek Warm Spring has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being Forest Road 114 (6 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Towne Creek Warm Spring?
Yes, Dog Creek (Id) is located nearby (2.1 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Towne Creek Warm Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Chloride. The pH is 6.7 (slightly acidic).
Is it safe to soak at Towne Creek Warm Spring?
Towne Creek 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 Towne Creek Warm Spring crowded?
Towne Creek Warm 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 Towne Creek Warm Spring?
Essentials for Towne Creek Warm Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.