Oakley Hot Spring
Oakley Hot Spring surfaces at 118°F in Cassia County at 5,322 feet, running 71 degrees above the local average air temperature. Located just 380 feet from the road near Burley, Idaho, it offers straightforward access to genuinely hot water in the high desert country south of the Snake River Plain.
The spring emerges in dry rangeland where the Albion Mountains begin their rise from the valley floor. Sagebrush and scattered juniper frame the terrain, with views stretching across the broad valley toward the distant Sawtooths on clear days. Less than 17 inches of precipitation falls annually, with under four feet of snow, giving the landscape a spare, open character. Winters are cold at this elevation, averaging 47°F year-round, making the hot water particularly inviting during the colder months.
The spring is an easy 380-foot walk from the road, accessible to most visitors. Independence Lakes Campground is the nearest developed camping at about 10 miles, offering five free first-come-first-served sites open roughly July through October with tables, grills, and vault toilets but no drinking water. Test the water temperature before entering, as 118°F requires caution. Bring all water and supplies.
USGS analysis reveals water at 47°C with a pH of 8.7, carrying notably elevated sodium (87 mg/L) and chloride (53 mg/L) compared to other Idaho thermal springs. This chemistry suggests the water interacts with different host rock than the batholith-sourced springs to the north, likely circulating through Paleozoic sedimentary formations that underlie the Albion Range. The elevated chloride-to-sulfate ratio points to a distinct geothermal reservoir.
The water at Oakley Hot Spring is alkaline (pH 8.7).
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Independence Lake Campground and Picnic Area is a non-fee campground and picnic area where reservations are not required. There are 5 single sites. This area is accessible for a season that varies usually between July through October. Sites are handicapped accessible. Campground amenities include 9 tables and grills, toilets, and livestock facilities. No drinking water or trash service is available. Nearby Independence Lakes Trail (#35) is 3.1 miles to the Lake. Only non-motorized travel is...
Oakley Hot Spring sits at 5,322 feet above sea level, way above the mile-high mark. You may not feel the altitude strongly, but hot water still dehydrates you faster at elevation. UV is about 21% stronger than at sea level, so bring sunscreen and drink more water than you normally would.
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Oakley Hot Spring is road-accessible, so you can bring more gear. The water runs hot, so extra hydration is key.
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