Quagmire Group
Quagmire Group produces waters at 203 degrees Fahrenheit—168 degrees above the 35-degree ambient—at 7,300 feet elevation in Yellowstone National Park. The springs sit 726 meters from Grand Loop Road, accessible via a short walk through thermal terrain. The 203-degree temperature ranks among the hottest springs in the park, approaching the boiling point at this elevation.
The springs emerge in Yellowstone's Lower Geyser Basin region at moderate elevation, surrounded by hydrothermal features characteristic of the park's volcanic landscape. The setting receives 28 inches of annual precipitation with 141 inches of snowfall, creating snow-dominated conditions from November through May. Protection Status 1 ensures permanent preservation in natural state under National Park Service management. The springs lie within thermal terrain featuring siliceous sinter deposits, algal mats, and sparse vegetation adapted to high-temperature runoff.
The name "Quagmire" references the unstable, saturated ground surrounding the springs—a hazard common to Yellowstone's thermal areas. Historical documentation dates to systematic geothermal surveys preceding the 1980 NOAA publication, though early park rangers and visitors likely observed the feature earlier. National Park Service management prohibits approaching thermal features closely due to unstable ground and extreme temperatures. The springs remain in natural state without development or boardwalks.
Visit from June through September for clearest access, though May and October are possible. Park entrance fees apply. Follow designated trails and obey all thermal area closures—ground near the springs is unstable and potentially lethal. The 203-degree temperature prohibits any contact. Indian Creek Campground lies 36 kilometers away with reservations required. Bring layers for variable mountain weather and bear spray for safety. Norris Geyser Basin provides more accessible thermal viewing nearby.
Is Quagmire Group worth visiting?
Best for
- Viewing dramatic geothermal features
- Overnight camping trips
- Winter soaking with dramatic temperature contrast
Not ideal for
- Swimming or soaking
Overview Located about eight miles (13 km) south of Mammoth Hot Springs on the road to Norris, Indian Creek Campground—elevation 7,300 feet (2225 m)—sits near the base of the Gallatin Mountains and offers breathtaking views of Electric Peak. The area offers easy access to fishing and hiking. The campground is away from the main road and provides a quieter, more primitive, experience than many other locations. For reservations at the campgrounds managed by Yellowstone National Park Lodges (Fi...