• Frog Pond Warm Springs is fed from the Atlanta Hot Springs overflow
Frog Pond is a large, shallow warm-water pond located just below Atlanta Hot Springs in the Boise National Forest. Fed by the overflow from the hot springs pool, the water stays comfortably warm in the summer, making it a popular spot for families and swimmers. The pond’s natural setting, surrounded by pine trees and mountain views, creates a peaceful spot to relax, wade, or swim.
Unlike the hot springs pool, Frog Pond is more open and casual. Swimsuits are recommended, especially since parts of the pond are visible from the nearby road. The pond is shallow near the edges, making it safe for children, while deeper areas provide space for adults to float or swim.
Frog Pond also serves as a natural cooling area for visitors who want a break from the hotter geothermal water. The surrounding area offers opportunities for picnicking, nature viewing, and photography, with wildlife such as birds, deer, and small mammals sometimes spotted nearby.
Visitors should pack out all trash, avoid disturbing the natural environment, and be aware that red spider mites have occasionally been reported in the water. Frog Pond is best enjoyed during the summer months, when access to the Atlanta area is easiest.
Things to Do near Frog Pond Warm Springs
Beyond soaking, the area is full of outdoor adventures surrounded by rugged peaks, clear rivers, and alpine forests.
You can explore the old mining town of Atlanta with historic cabins, mining relics, and 1860s schoolhouse.
Trails like Graylock Mountain, Buck Creek, and Powerplant lead through pine forests and along the Middle Fork of the Boise River with quiet, scenic views.
The river and nearby creeks are great for trout and whitefish fishing. You can often see wildlife such as elk, deer, and eagles.
Mountain bikers and photographers will enjoy the dramatic Sawtooth landscape. In winter, this is the place for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.
Frog Pond Warm Springs Camping and Lodging
Near Frog Pond Warm Springs, you can camp at Power Plant and Riverside Campgrounds. Both are in the Boise National Forest. Neither campground has running water or electrical hookups, so bring your own supplies.
Power Plant has forested sites with picnic tables, fire rings, and river access. It is suitable for tents or small RVs. Typically open from May through September, on a first-come, first-served basis.
Riverside Campground sits right along the Middle Fork of the Boise River and offers picnic tables, fire pits, and fishing access.
You can make reservations through Recreation.gov during the open season from mid-June to the end of September. Otherwise, campsites are first-come, first-served.
If you are looking for a more comfortable accomodations, Lowman or Idaho City are about 30 miles away.
Frog Pond Warm Springs | Facts
Location: 129 miles east of Boise • Central Idaho • USA
Best time: Late June to early October
Development: Primitive
Clothing: Recommended
Amenities: None
Hiking distance: Short
Road Access: A 4WD high clearance vehicle
Day-use fees: None
Managed by: U.S.Forest Service
Elevation: 5,400 ft (1,645 m)
Water T° (source): 140°F (60°C)
Water T° (pool): Varies
Odor: Mild sulfur smell
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Directions to Frog Pond Warm Springs
Frog Pond Warm Springs near Atlanta can be accessed via unpaved forest roads only. With this in mind, a 4WD high clearance vehicle is required to navigate the area. Some roads are closed during the winter months. Check directions here.
From Atlanta,
- Follow 1.2 miles east on Main Street/Middle Fork Boise River Road to the large pond and hot springs on the right.