• Barney Warm Springs is a roadside warm pond where small fish might nibble your toes
Barney Warm Springs in Central Idaho offers open desert views and a warm, wildlife-filled pond. It lies northeast of Challis near Summit Creek Campground, on BLM land within the Challis National Forest.
The site is framed by the Lost River and Lemhi Ranges, with 11,612-foot Bell Mountain rising to the east. "The warm pond is accessible year-round, but the access roads are not maintained during winter.
Barney Warm Springs Experience
The pond holds natural mineral water and is large and shallow — about 50 by 25 feet and roughly 3.5 to 4 feet deep. Warm water emerges from the sand-and-gravel bottom, feeding a calm, human-enhanced pool. From the pond's southern edge, a steady outflow forms Barney Creek, which winds through the sagebrush flats below.
Temperatures hover around 82–83°F (28–28.5°C) in summer — more like a warm lake than a true hot spring. On hot days, it's pleasant; in cold weather, it can feel cool.
Look for a square log frame near the downstream end, thought to be part of an old corral or bathhouse remembered by locals from the 1940s.
Barney was once a quiet, soothing spot, but after tropical fish were introduced, the water grew murky with stirred-up sediment and fish waste.
Over time, it became more of a feeding place than a soak site. When visitors arrive and start tossing in food, the still water suddenly stirs to life — bright, colorful fish swarm the feeders, and large goldfish leap and splash across the pond.
The pond is visible from the road, so if you choose to wade or take a dip, wearing a swimsuit is a wise choice, and water shoes help on the gravel and small sticks.
Things to Do at Barney Warm Springs: Other Adventures
While Barney Warm Springs is no longer ideal for soaking, it’s still a peaceful spot to explore. Visitors often stop to watch the colorful fish, take photos, or enjoy a quiet picnic with views of the Lost River and Lemhi Ranges.
The short trail and open terrain make it easy to wander around the pond or follow the small outflow of Barney Creek as it winds through the desert flats.
Birdwatching and wildlife viewing are also rewarding here, especially in the early morning or evening.
For those seeking a proper soak, nearby wild Cronks Canyon Hot Springs along the Salmon River and the developed Challis Hot Springs offer excellent opportunities.
The Pahsimeroi (Pahsimerol) Road provides a scenic drive through open ranch country. Keep an eye out for pronghorn, mule deer, and raptors, and stay on established roads to protect the fragile valley floor.
Barney Warm Springs Camping and Lodging
There is no camping right at the spring, but Summit Creek Campground sits about 0.3 miles away across the road. The campground is basic and seasonal; for supplies, fuel, and lodging, head to Challis, 45–65 miles away depending on your route.
Affordable vacation rentals for short- and long-term stays in Challis
Barney Warm Springs | Facts
Location: 64 miles northeast of Challis • Idaho • USA
Best time: Late spring through fall; open year‑round, but roads are not maintained in winter
Development: Wild
Clothing: Recommended
Amenities: None
Hiking distance: Roadside; short dirt spur from Summit Creek Campground area (~0.1–0.2 mile)
Road access: Any vehicle
Day-use fees: None
Managed by: Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
Elevation: 6,300 ft (1,920 m)
Water T° (pond): 82–83°F (28–28.5°C)
Odor: Minimal to none
More Adventures
Directions to Barney Warm Springs
From Challis,
- Drive US‑93 north 17–18 miles to Ellis
- Turn east toward May and Patterson on Pahsimeroi (Pahsimerol) Road
- Continue about 34 miles on pavement, then 13 miles on gravel to BLM Summit Creek Campground.
At the south end of the campground, take the short spur road west to the pond. The pool is roughly 0.5 miles past the campground and visible from the road.