Red River Hot Springs produces 131 degrees Fahrenheit water at 5,040 feet elevation in Idaho County's Nezperce National Forest, with a strongly alkaline pH of 9.4 and total dissolved solids of 274 mg/L. The source sits just 165 feet from the road, making it among the most accessible high-temperature springs in central Idaho's backcountry.
The setting is deep in the Red River drainage, surrounded by dense stands of lodgepole pine and subalpine fir at the western edge of the Bitterroot Range. This area receives over 15 feet of snow annually, burying the landscape under a thick white blanket from November through May. The water emerges sodium-rich and nearly iron-free, running clear over mineral-stained rocks. Summer brings wildflower meadows and the steady sound of the nearby creek.
History of Red River Hot Springs
The thermal activity at Red River connects to the same deep-seated batholith heating that powers many of central Idaho's hot springs. Water chemistry shows almost no calcium or magnesium, consistent with long contact time in granitic rock rather than limestone or volcanic formations. The area has been known to Nez Perce people and later to miners who worked the Red River placers in the late 1800s.
Roadside access makes reaching the spring straightforward once you navigate the long forest roads from Grangeville. Walker Cabin, a reservable 1930s-era Forest Service rental, sits about 17 miles away along Crooked River Road near the Gospel-Hump Wilderness. Snow closes access roads typically from October through June. Bring supplies for full self-sufficiency.
Is Red River Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Red River Hot Springs offers an accessible hot spring experience — great for a day trip.
Annual Precip: 40.9 in
Annual Snow: 185.2 in
December
Air 21°F · Water 131°F · +110° contrast
January
Air 24°F · Water 131°F · +107° contrast
February
Air 26°F · Water 131°F · +105° contrast
December offers 44°F more contrast than August
Recent Temperature
131.0°F
(55.0°C)
Measured Jul 13, 1982
The water at Red River Hot Springs is alkaline (pH 9.4) with 274 mg/L total dissolved solids.
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
Higher mineral concentration for therapeutic soaking
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
Iron-rich springs may support circulation
Overview
Walker Cabin is nestled among trees just off Crooked River Road #233, which leads into the Gospel-Hump Wilderness Area, in the Nez Perce National Forest. The cabin was originally built around 1930 as a summer home. Jerry and Helen Walker purchased the cabin in 1967, then donated it to the U.S. Forest Service in the 1980s. It is now available for public recreational use. The cabin must be reserved in advanced; there are no walk-ups.
Recreation
Crooked River is a popular area for many...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Warm layers
Cold air before and after soaking
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Walker Cabin
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
47 miles from Grangeville, ID
USGS Quad: SABLE HILL 7.5 · PP 492: 10.0 · NOAA: 1.0 · AMS Map: ELK CITY
What is the water temperature at Red River Hot Springs?
Red River Hot Springs has a water temperature of 131°F (55°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Red River Hot Springs located?
Red River Hot Springs is located in Idaho County, Idaho at 5,040 feet elevation, near Grangeville. Coordinates: 45.7880°N, 115.1980°W.
How do I get to Red River Hot Springs?
Red River Hot Springs has Roadside road access (165 ft from the road).
Is Red River Hot Springs free to visit?
Red River Hot Springs has Open access. It is managed by US Forest Service.
Can I camp near Red River Hot Springs?
Yes, Walker Cabin is located nearby (16.7 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Red River Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride, Iron. The pH is 9.4 (alkaline). Total dissolved solids measure 274 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at Red River Hot Springs?
At 131°F, Red River Hot Springs 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 Red River Hot Springs crowded?
Red River Hot Springs 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 Red River Hot Springs?
Essentials for Red River Hot Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, warm layers for before and after soaking, 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.