Larson Springs
Larson Springs flows at 70°F just 104 meters from 17600 North road at 5,540 feet elevation near Burley, Idaho, running 22 degrees above the 48°F ambient temperature. The spring shows notably higher mineralization than nearby L.G. Carter Springs, with total dissolved solids of 795 mg/L dominated by sodium (250 mg/L) and chloride (125 mg/L). Recent USGS measurements recorded 21.1°C with pH 8.0, indicating sodium-chloride chemistry typical of deeper circulation.
The spring emerges in high desert sagebrush terrain where basalt flows and volcanic ash deposits underlie basin-fill sediments. Located just 5 km west of L.G. Carter Springs, the site occupies similar landscape—flat to gently rolling with scattered juniper and limited surface water. Annual precipitation is minimal at 11 inches, with winter snow accumulating to 27 inches at this elevation. The surrounding area supports cattle grazing on open range, with distant mountain ranges visible across the basin. Geothermal anomalies in this region reflect Basin and Range extension, with thermal waters ascending along fault zones through fractured volcanic rocks.
Visit May through October when roads are dry and temperatures moderate. Winter snow and spring mud limit access November through April. The 70-degree water is comfortable for wading but too cool for extended soaking. The 104-meter approach from the road is straightforward—bring GPS to locate the exact site in open terrain. Clear Creek Campground 15 km away offers free primitive camping and serves as a base for exploring multiple springs in the area. Combine visits to L.G. Carter and Larson Springs for comparison of nearby thermal systems with distinct chemistry.
The spring carries the surname of a rancher or homesteader who likely held water rights or grazed cattle in this area during the late 19th or early 20th century. Shoshone-Bannock peoples knew scattered springs in this landscape as critical water sources in an otherwise arid environment. Euro-American settlement concentrated along the Snake River where irrigation enabled agriculture, leaving southern Cassia County as marginal rangeland. The spring's higher salinity compared to nearby thermal features suggests distinct circulation paths or longer residence time in subsurface formations.
The water at Larson Springs is slightly alkaline (pH 8.0) with 795 mg/L total dissolved solids. It is notably rich in chloride (natural antiseptic with skin health benefits).
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Clear Creek Campground is a non-fee campground and picnic area composed of 12 individual units and reservations are not required. This area is accessible for a season that varies usually between June through October. Campground amenities include toilets and the campground is well suited for tent and RV camping. Sites are handicapped accessible. Bull Flat (#001) and Lake Fork (#004) trails are popular with horseback riders, and hikers.
Larson Springs sits at 5,540 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 22% stronger than at sea level, so bring sunscreen and drink more water than you normally would.
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Larson Springs is road-accessible, so you can bring more gear.
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Springs Near Larson Springs
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Slightly Alkaline Springs (pH ~8.0)
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