At 140°F, the source water at Dan Hodges Hot Spring is hot enough to cause burns. Some hot springs this hot have cooler side pools or downstream areas suitable for soaking — always test the water temperature before entering.
File:River float on the Swirly Canyon Boise NF Erika Schaubach (51797794394).jpg — public domain
Dan Hodges Hot Spring emerges at 140 degrees Fahrenheit right along Riverview Way in Boise County, just 90 feet from the road. That extreme heat and roadside proximity make this one of the hottest easily reached thermal features near Idaho City, a former gold rush boomtown that still draws visitors to its mountain surroundings.
At 3,200 feet elevation, the spring sits in the South Fork Payette River drainage where ponderosa pine and mixed conifers line the canyon. The river corridor stays green through summer while hillsides turn gold and brown. Annual snowfall exceeds eight feet, but the hot spring steams through every season. The sound of moving water from nearby creeks mixes with birdsong in the forest. Mineral deposits mark the outflow path with pale mineral crusts against dark river cobbles.
History of Dan Hodges Hot Spring
The South Fork Payette corridor hosts a concentration of thermal springs reflecting the Idaho Batholith's deep heat. Dan Hodges Hot Spring's alkaline chemistry, pH 9.1 with 78 mg/L sodium and very low calcium, points to water that has circulated through granitic rock at depth. Idaho City, established during the 1862 gold rush, sits nearby, and early miners noted these thermal features while working placer claims throughout the drainage.
At 140 degrees Fahrenheit, this water is dangerously hot at the source. Do not attempt to soak directly in the outflow. Look for areas downstream where mixing with cooler water brings temperatures to a tolerable range. Hot Springs Campground, about 4.5 miles away along the Banks-Lowman Highway, accepts reservations and offers river access. The road is paved and accessible year-round with winter maintenance.
Is Dan Hodges Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Easy day trips
Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Dan Hodges Hot Spring is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and easy day trips.
Monthly Climate
29°Jan
32°Feb
38°Mar
44°Apr
54°May
64°Jun
75°Jul
74°Aug
64°Sep
49°Oct
36°Nov
27°Dec
Annual Precip: 30.9 inAnnual Snow: 105.6 in
Best Time to Visit
DecemberAir 27°F · Water 140°F · +113° contrast
JanuaryAir 29°F · Water 140°F · +111° contrast
FebruaryAir 32°F · Water 140°F · +108° contrast
December offers 48°F more contrast than July
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature
140.0°F
(60.0°C)Measured Feb 26, 1979
Water ChemistrySampled 1979-02-26
The water at Dan Hodges Hot Spring is alkaline (pH 9.1).
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...
What is the water temperature at Dan Hodges Hot Spring?
Dan Hodges Hot Spring has a water temperature of 140°F (60°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Dan Hodges Hot Spring located?
Dan Hodges Hot Spring is located in Boise County, Idaho at 3,200 feet elevation, near Idaho City. Coordinates: 44.0510°N, 115.8290°W.
How do I get to Dan Hodges Hot Spring?
Dan Hodges Hot Spring has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being Riverview Way (90 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Dan Hodges Hot Spring?
Yes, Hot Springs is located nearby (4.5 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Dan Hodges Hot Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 9.1 (alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Dan Hodges Hot Spring?
At 140°F, Dan Hodges 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 Dan Hodges Hot Spring crowded?
Dan Hodges 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 Dan Hodges Hot Spring?
Essentials for Dan Hodges 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.
