Willow Creek Hot Spring emerges at 131°F with strongly alkaline water (pH 9.5) in the Sawtooth National Forest at 5,242 feet. Reaching it requires a walk of nearly 1,200 meters from Willow Creek Road across Forest Service land. The sodium-dominant chemistry with minimal calcium (2.1 mg/L) and low chloride (3.2 mg/L) indicates deep volcanic-hosted circulation.
The spring occupies a forested creek drainage in Camas County, where lodgepole pine, Douglas fir, and aspen line the slopes above Willow Creek. Annual snowfall averages over 144 inches at this elevation, burying the access trail for months. The broader landscape includes the Soldier Mountains to the south and the Smoky Mountains to the northeast, with Fairfield's Camas Prairie stretching to the west. The South Fork Boise River watershed defines the regional hydrology.
History of Willow Creek Hot Spring
The spring takes its name from Willow Creek, along which it surfaces. Baumgartner Campground, less than 5 kilometers away, features its own developed hot springs with a concrete soaking pool fed by 101°F water, reflecting a long tradition of thermal recreation in this part of the Sawtooth National Forest. Willow Creek Hot Spring itself remains undeveloped and is managed as a dispersed recreation site on public land.
The 1,200-meter walk from the road requires moderate effort over uneven terrain. Summer and early fall provide the best access window, as deep snow closes Willow Creek Road from late fall through spring. Water at 131°F is too hot at the source for direct soaking and must be mixed with creek water. Baumgartner Campground, 4.8 km away, is reservable and has a developed hot spring pool, vault toilets, and established campsites.
Is Willow Creek Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Overnight camping trips
Willow Creek Hot Spring is well suited for hot spring soaking and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 29.6 in
Annual Snow: 144.2 in
December
Air 21°F · Water 131°F · +110° contrast
January
Air 24°F · Water 131°F · +107° contrast
February
Air 26°F · Water 131°F · +105° contrast
December offers 48°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
127.4°F
(53.0°C)
Measured Jul 16, 1981
The water at Willow Creek Hot Spring 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
Baumgartner Campground is situated alongside the South Fork Boise River, 11 miles from Featherville, Idaho.
The area offers excellent fishing, hiking and off-road vehicle riding opportunities. Baumgartner Hot Springs is located within the campground, where visitors can enjoy soaking in the pool while admiring the scenic, natural setting.
Recreation
The campground's main draw is Baumgartner Hot Springs. The 101-degree water is piped into a large concrete soaking pool. The pool...
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 Baumgartner Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
12 miles from Fairfield, ID
USGS Quad: CAYUSE POINT 7.5 · PP 492: 126.0 · NOAA: 18.0 · AMS Map: HAILEY
What is the water temperature at Willow Creek Hot Spring?
Willow Creek Hot Spring has a water temperature of 131°F (55°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Willow Creek Hot Spring located?
Willow Creek Hot Spring is located in Camas County, Idaho at 5,242 feet elevation, near Fairfield. Coordinates: 43.6370°N, 115.1300°W.
How do I get to Willow Creek Hot Spring?
Willow Creek Hot Spring has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Willow Creek Road (0.7 mi from the road).
Is Willow Creek Hot Spring free to visit?
Willow Creek Hot Spring has Open access. It is managed by US Forest Service.
Can I camp near Willow Creek Hot Spring?
Yes, Baumgartner Campground is located nearby (3.0 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Willow Creek Hot Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 9.5 (alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Willow Creek Hot Spring?
At 131°F, Willow Creek Hot Spring is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Willow Creek Hot Spring crowded?
Willow Creek Hot Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Willow Creek Hot Spring?
Essentials for Willow Creek 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. The water is over 110°F — test the temperature before entering and watch for scalding near the source.