Cleveland Hot Springs
Cleveland Hot Springs pushes 151-degree Fahrenheit water to the surface near Preston in southeastern Idaho, making it one of the hotter springs in Franklin County. Its sodium-chloride chemistry, with 630 mg/L chloride and 490 mg/L sodium, sets it apart from the alkaline volcanic springs found across most of the state.
A short walk of roughly 475 feet from Maple Grove Road leads to the spring at 4,900 feet elevation. The water carries a noticeable mineral tang from its heavy dissolved load, and the ground around the source is stained and crusted with precipitated salts. The surrounding landscape leans toward dry rangeland and scattered groves rather than dense forest. Over 80 inches of snow fall here annually, and the thermal plume can be visible from some distance during cold months.
Maple Grove Campground sits about 5.6 miles away and operates on a first-come, first-served basis at five dollars per night per vehicle with a 14-day stay limit. The campground has vault toilets, fire rings, and a boat ramp but no dumpsters, so pack out all trash. The spring itself is too hot for direct contact at the source. Check conditions before visiting in winter.
Cleveland's water chemistry resembles deep-circulating Basin and Range geothermal fluids rather than the low-chloride volcanic waters typical of central Idaho. The 630 mg/L chloride, 260 mg/L sulfate, and 490 mg/L sodium suggest contact with ancient sedimentary formations at considerable depth. A near-neutral pH of 7.3 further distinguishes it from the alkaline springs to the north and west. Recent USGS measurements confirmed source temperatures at 76 degrees Celsius.
The water at Cleveland Hot Springs is slightly alkaline (pH 7.3). It is notably rich in sodium (supports circulation and skin hydration), sulfate (traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation), and chloride (natural antiseptic with skin health benefits).
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Campground rules and regulations are posted at the site. There are no dumpsters on site, visitors must pack in and out their trash. Campsites: 12 developed sites--- At this time, there is not a reservation system in place for the campsites. Campsites are on a first come first serve basis. Overnight Camping Fees: $5.00 per vehicle/ per night This site is equipped picnic tables, fire rings, vault toilets, horseshoe pits, and boat ramp with a dock. There is no Day-use allowed and facilities a...
Cleveland Hot Springs is road-accessible, so you can bring more gear. The water is dangerously hot — bring water shoes and test pools carefully.
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