File:River float on the Swirly Canyon Boise NF Erika Schaubach (51797794394).jpg — public domain
Corder Hot Spring sits just nine feet from Fry Drive near Idaho City, making it among the most accessible thermal springs in Boise County. The 131-degree Fahrenheit water carries a pH of 9.2 and virtually no calcium or magnesium, producing distinctly soft, silky-feeling water at 3,200 feet elevation.
Pulling up alongside Fry Drive, the spring is immediately visible from the road. The forested hillsides of Boise County rise steeply around the drainage, with ponderosa pine and Douglas fir dominating the slopes. Annual snowfall exceeds eight feet here, and the spring's steam stands out against winter landscapes. The water runs clear with a faint mineral scent. The South Fork Payette River corridor lies nearby, shaping the surrounding terrain into narrow valleys and timbered ridgelines.
History of Corder Hot Spring
Corder's chemistry, with 75 mg/L sodium, 38 mg/L sulfate, and just 5.7 mg/L chloride, is textbook Idaho Batholith thermal water. Deep circulation through granitic bedrock strips out calcium and magnesium through ion exchange while concentrating sodium and raising pH. The 131-degree source temperature and 82-degree differential above ambient air suggest a circulation depth of several thousand feet through the batholith's fractured granite.
Hot Springs Campground sits about 6 miles away near Garden Valley along the Banks-Lowman Highway, with reservable sites at 3,169 feet elevation. The campground sits across the road from the South Fork Payette River and a natural hot springs soaking pool. At the source, Corder's 131-degree water requires cooling before contact. Winter access depends on road plowing schedules for Fry Drive.
Is Corder Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Corder Hot Spring offers an accessible hot spring experience — great for a day trip.
Annual Precip: 30.9 in
Annual Snow: 105.6 in
December
Air 27°F · Water 131°F · +104° contrast
January
Air 28°F · Water 131°F · +103° contrast
February
Air 32°F · Water 131°F · +99° contrast
December offers 47°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
130.1°F
(54.5°C)
Measured Nov 27, 1978
The water at Corder Hot Spring is alkaline (pH 9.2).
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
May support bone density and joint health
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
Overview
Hot Springs Campground is located just east of Garden Valley, Idaho along the Banks-Lowman Highway at an elevation of 3169 feet. Visitors enjoy rafting, kayaking, fishing on the South Fork Payette River, and soaking in the hot springs at the river's edge.
Recreation
The South Fork Payette River is across the road from the campground, offering fishing, whitewater rafting, and kayaking.
A natural hot springs soaking pool is located on the river directly across the road and down a...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Hot Springs
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
27 miles from Idaho City, ID
USGS Quad: GARDEN VALLEY 15 · PP 492: 76.0 · NOAA: 42.0 · AMS Map: CHALLIS
What is the water temperature at Corder Hot Spring?
Corder Hot Spring has a water temperature of 131°F (55°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Corder Hot Spring located?
Corder Hot Spring is located in Boise County, Idaho at 3,200 feet elevation, near Idaho City. Coordinates: 44.0450°N, 115.8420°W.
How do I get to Corder Hot Spring?
Corder Hot Spring has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being Fry Drive (9 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Corder Hot Spring?
Yes, Hot Springs is located nearby (3.9 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Corder Hot Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 9.2 (alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Corder Hot Spring?
At 131°F, Corder Hot Spring is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Corder Hot Spring crowded?
Corder Hot Spring is accessible from a paved road, making it easy to reach. Weekends and holidays may be busier — consider visiting on a weekday for a quieter experience.
What should I bring to Corder Hot Spring?
Essentials for Corder Hot Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in. The water is over 110°F — test the temperature before entering and watch for scalding near the source.