Warm Spring
Warm Spring flows at a genuinely warm rather than hot temperature within Yellowstone National Park, located 1,355 meters from South Rim Drive at 7,748 feet elevation in Gallatin County. The temperature classification indicates water in the 70-100°F range, significantly cooler than most Yellowstone thermal features. This moderate thermal spring sits on National Park Service land with open public access, requiring a short walk from the nearest road.
The spring sits at 7,748 feet elevation in Yellowstone's high-elevation volcanic plateau, where average annual temperatures reach only 34°F with 135 inches of snow accumulation. The surrounding landscape reflects typical Yellowstone thermal basin terrain with lodgepole pine forests transitioning to subalpine fir at higher elevations. South Rim Drive provides vehicular access to this section of the park, with the spring positioned about three-quarters of a mile from the pavement. The area receives 27 inches of annual precipitation, supporting dense coniferous forests punctuated by thermal features.
The name Warm Spring distinguishes this feature from the hundreds of hot and superheated springs throughout Yellowstone, reflecting its notably lower temperature. The spring occupies permanently protected federal land within Yellowstone National Park, established in 1872 as the world's first national park. Documentation of this specific feature dates to systematic thermal surveys conducted by the U.S. Geological Survey beginning in the early 20th century.
Visit during summer months (July-September) when roads are reliably open and snow has melted from trails. The 1,355-meter walk from South Rim Drive requires no special permits beyond park entrance fees. Tower Fall Campground lies 21 kilometers away with reservable sites. Prepare for rapid weather changes at this elevation. Yellowstone's thermal features are fragile and dangerous; stay on designated trails and boardwalks at all times.
Is Warm Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Overnight camping trips
Overview Tower Fall Campground—elevation 6,600 feet (2012 m)—is on the north side of the steep, winding, road to Dunraven Pass. The campground is near the Tower General Store and Tower Fall. The Lamar Valley, with spectacular wildlife viewing opportunities, is nearby as are several Day Hikes in the Tower and Northeast Area. Roosevelt Lodge, a short drive from the campground, offers dining and horseback riding. For reservations at the campgrounds managed by Yellowstone National Park Lodges (F...