Warm Mineral Spring
Warm Mineral Spring emerges at 83°F in the Blue Mountains within Whitman National Forest at 4,365 feet elevation, creating a 38.3-degree temperature differential above the 44.7°F ambient air temperature. Located 93.6 meters from National Forest Development Road 5160, the spring flows on public US Forest Service land open to general access. The moderate temperature suits bathing during the mountain's short summer season.
The spring occupies high mountain terrain at 4,365 feet elevation, where mixed conifers grow among granite boulders and outcrops. The site receives substantial precipitation at 31.3 inches annually and heavy winter snowpack averaging 113.9 inches, supporting dense forest vegetation. The Blue Mountains rise to peaks visible from the spring's location, with the Elkhorn Range and its glaciated cirques dominating the western skyline.
The mineral designation suggests water chemistry distinct from simple thermal springs, though specific historical analysis remains undocumented. US Forest Service management has maintained public access under standard National Forest designation. The remote mountain location likely prevented commercial development, leaving the spring in a relatively natural condition.
Heavy snowpack averaging 113.9 inches limits access to summer and early fall months when National Forest Development Road 5160 becomes passable. The short mountain summer offers the best conditions, with the 83°F water temperature comfortable when ambient air temperatures rise above the 44.7°F annual average. Anthony Lake Campground lies 20.5 km away at 7,100 feet elevation for overnight camping with reservations. Check road and trail conditions before visiting.
Is Warm Mineral Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Warm-water soaking
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Overview At an elevation of 7,100 feet, this campground keeps cool in the summertime heat. The sites sit among boulders and mixed conifers on a bluff over Anthony Lake. For questions for Anthony Lake, Grande Ronde Lake, Mud Lake, Peavey Cabin, and Anthony Lake Guard Station call (541) 894-2332 or email campgrounds@anthonylakes.com None of the sites offer lake views, but campers can enjoy gazing on Gunsight Mountain and the surrounding peaks of the Elkhorn range. Anthony Lakes Campgrounds Webs...