Maple Grove Hot Springs
Maple Grove Hot Springs surfaces at a scalding 172 degrees Fahrenheit, making it one of the hottest springs in southeastern Idaho. Located along Oneida Narrows Road in Franklin County near Preston, the source temperature runs 125 degrees above the surrounding air, requiring significant cooling before any human contact is possible.
At 4,900 feet elevation in the narrow canyon cut by the Bear River, steam rises from the source where 172-degree water meets mountain air. The canyon walls funnel wind through the narrows, and the smell of mineral-rich water carries downstream. With 83 inches of annual snowfall blanketing the surrounding slopes, winter transforms the area into a stark contrast of white snow and billowing steam from the superheated outflow.
Maple Grove Campground sits 2 miles away with 12 first-come, first-served sites at five dollars per vehicle per night and a 14-day stay limit. The campground has vault toilets, fire rings, and a boat ramp but no trash service, so pack everything out. The spring itself is roadside, just 300 feet from Oneida Narrows Road. Do not touch the source water directly; it causes severe burns.
Geological faulting along the Oneida Narrows allows deeply circulated groundwater to reach the surface at near-boiling temperatures. USGS records show 76 degrees Celsius with neutral pH of 7.3 and elevated sodium and chloride levels typical of deep-source thermal systems. The spring has attracted visitors since settlement of the Cache Valley, and its reliable high-volume flow has made it a landmark along the narrows for generations.
The water at Maple Grove 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...
Maple Grove 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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