Atlanta Hot Springs
One of several natural hot springs around Atlanta at the head of the Middle Fork Boise River. Reaching it means many miles of gravel Forest Service roads from Idaho City or the Middle Fork road. Atlanta Hot Springs costs nothing to visit.
| Access | Free, public land Natural pool near the old mining town of Atlanta on the Boise National Forest; the drive involves long gravel roads. |
|---|---|
| Type | Natural spring |
| Location | Atlanta, ID Managed by USFS Boise National Forest (area) Directions (approximate location; check the official map) |
| Water | 140 °F at the source (USGS/NOAA survey, 1980) |
| Season | Roads best late May–September; fall and late winter access may be difficult |
| Camping | Atlanta Guard Station rental cabin |
Best time to soak: Atlanta Hot Springs
Atlanta Hot Springs is about 56 miles east of Boise, ID, measured in a straight line.
From October to May average highs near Atlanta stay at 28 to 60 °F, with nights down to 4 °F. Freezing nights from October to May mean icy steps and possible road closures; traction for your shoes helps.
| Month | High | Low | Rain days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 30 °F | 4 °F | 5 |
| Feb | 35 °F | 7 °F | 5 |
| Mar | 43 °F | 14 °F | 6 |
| Apr | 49 °F | 21 °F | 6 |
| May | 60 °F | 30 °F | 5 |
| Jun | 69 °F | 35 °F | 4 |
| Jul | 80 °F | 39 °F | 2 |
| Aug | 80 °F | 37 °F | 2 |
| Sep | 70 °F | 31 °F | 3 |
| Oct | 55 °F | 24 °F | 4 |
| Nov | 39 °F | 14 °F | 6 |
| Dec | 28 °F | 6 °F | 7 |
More to do nearby
- Smith Falls (waterfall, 14 mi)
Pack for the hot springs
- Battery-free floating water thermometer Check a pool before you get in. Natural springs can run hotter than they look. View on Amazon
- Top pick 4Monster quick-dry microfiber towel with case Packs small for the hike to the pools and dries in the car on the way home. View on Amazon
-
Illustration SIMARI quick-dry water shoes for women and men Grip on slick rock and gravel pool bottoms, and they dry fast on the walk out. View on Amazon
We haven't tested these ourselves; we chose them by size and specs. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Check the current price on Amazon.
More hot springs nearby
- Baumgartner Hot Springs Free
- Skillern Hot Springs Free
- Worswick Hot Springs Free
- Bonneville Hot Springs Free
- Russian John Hot Springs Free
- Kirkham Hot Springs Free
- Easley Hot Springs Day pass
- Elkhorn Hot Springs Free
Waterfalls nearby
- Smith Falls (14 mi)
- Fern Falls (15 mi)
- Baron Creek Falls (20 mi)
Sources
Access, prices and rules come from these official pages, checked October 2026. Hot springs close for weather, repairs or high water, so confirm before you go.
Something changed? Tell us.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Atlanta Hot Springs cost?
Yes. Atlanta Hot Springs is on public land with no soaking fee.
How hot is Atlanta Hot Springs?
140 °F at the source (USGS/NOAA survey, 1980). Pool temperatures are usually lower than at the source and change with the season.
When is Atlanta Hot Springs open?
Roads best late May–September; fall and late winter access may be difficult.
Can you camp near Atlanta Hot Springs?
Atlanta Guard Station rental cabin.
How far is Atlanta Hot Springs from Boise?
About 56 miles from Boise in a straight line; the drive is longer.