Hot Spring Campground takes its name from the 124°F thermal source that surfaces at 3,120 feet along the Banks-Lowman Highway in Boise County. The spring sits roadside just east of Garden Valley, with natural soaking pools formed where hot water meets the South Fork Payette River directly across the road from the campground.
The South Fork Payette River dominates the scene here, running fast and cold through a forested canyon while thermal water seeps down the riverbank into rock-lined pools at the water's edge. Ponderosa pine and Douglas fir shade the canyon slopes, and the highway follows the river's curve through the drainage. Annual snowfall approaches 80 inches, but the relatively low elevation keeps winters milder than in the higher backcountry. Rafters and kayakers frequently pass through the rapids in view of the soaking pools.
History of Hot Spring Campground
The Banks-Lowman corridor follows a geothermal fairway along the South Fork Payette River where multiple hot springs surface through fractured granitic rock. This spring's highly alkaline pH of 9.0 and sodium-dominated chemistry, with 77 mg/L sodium and negligible magnesium at 0.1 mg/L, indicates deep-source water rising along canyon-bottom faults. USGS measurements showed 42°C with a small discharge of 0.01 cubic feet per second. The highway has connected Boise to the Stanley Basin since the early twentieth century.
Hot Springs Campground is 1.2 miles away and accepts reservations. The spring itself is about 140 feet from the road, making it one of the most accessible soaks along the Banks-Lowman corridor. Source water at 124°F is too hot for direct contact, but the riverside pools where thermal and river water blend offer temperatures that vary with river level. Higher river flows in spring create cooler pools; late summer produces the warmest soaking conditions.
Is Hot Spring Campground worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Hot Spring Campground offers an accessible hot spring experience — great for a day trip.
Annual Precip: 28.4 in
Annual Snow: 79.9 in
December
Air 27°F · Water 124°F · +97° contrast
January
Air 28°F · Water 124°F · +96° contrast
February
Air 32°F · Water 124°F · +92° contrast
December offers 47°F more contrast than August
Recent Temperature
107.6°F
(42.0°C)
Measured Nov 23, 1978
Discharge
0.01 ft³/s
Measured Oct 20, 1977
The water at Hot Spring Campground is alkaline (pH 9.0).
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
29 miles from Idaho City, ID
USGS Quad: GARDEN VALLEY 15 · PP 492: 74.0 · NOAA: 40.0 · AMS Map: CHALLIS
What is the water temperature at Hot Spring Campground?
Hot Spring Campground has a water temperature of 124°F (51°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Hot Spring Campground located?
Hot Spring Campground is located in Boise County, Idaho at 3,120 feet elevation, near Idaho City. Coordinates: 44.0540°N, 115.9070°W.
How do I get to Hot Spring Campground?
Hot Spring Campground has Roadside road access (140 ft from the road).
Is Hot Spring Campground free to visit?
Hot Spring Campground has Open access. It is managed by US Forest Service.
Can I camp near Hot Spring Campground?
Yes, Hot Springs is located nearby (0.7 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Hot Spring Campground?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 9.0 (alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Hot Spring Campground?
At 124°F, Hot Spring Campground is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Hot Spring Campground crowded?
Hot Spring Campground 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 Hot Spring Campground?
Essentials for Hot Spring Campground: 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.