At 144°F, the source water at Zims Resort Hot Springs 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.
Zims Resort Hot Springs delivers 144°F water virtually at roadside, sitting just 17 feet from Zims Road in Valley County, Idaho, near McCall. USGS measurements confirm 64°C, and the highly alkaline water (pH 9.4) carries elevated sodium at 180 mg/L and sulfate at 320 mg/L, with minimal calcium and magnesium.
At 3,825 feet in the mountains west of McCall, the spring occupies a forested canyon in central Idaho's backcountry. The area receives substantial precipitation — 37 inches of rain and nearly 150 inches of snow annually — supporting dense conifer forests of Douglas fir and ponderosa pine. The South Fork of the Salmon River drainage shapes the surrounding topography, with steep timbered ridgelines rising on either side of the narrow valley.
History of Zims Resort Hot Springs
The spring's name references a former resort operation that historically channeled the thermal water for guest use. McCall and the surrounding Long Valley have drawn visitors since the early 1900s for timber, ranching, and recreation. Detailed records of the resort's founding and closure dates are not readily available. The spring itself remains accessible along the road that bears its name.
The McCall area offers year-round recreation, but deep snow limits backcountry road access from late fall through spring. Water at 144°F requires cooling before any contact. Grouse Campground on Goose Lake, about 10 km away, is reservable through Recreation.gov and serves as a base for fishing, canoeing, and horseback riding. Carry bear spray and store food properly in this wildlife-rich corridor.
Is Zims Resort Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Easy day trips
Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Zims Resort Hot Springs is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and easy day trips.
Monthly Climate
27°Jan
29°Feb
36°Mar
42°Apr
51°May
61°Jun
72°Jul
72°Aug
61°Sep
47°Oct
34°Nov
26°Dec
Annual Precip: 37.4 inAnnual Snow: 149.4 in
Best Time to Visit
DecemberAir 26°F · Water 144°F · +118° contrast
JanuaryAir 27°F · Water 144°F · +117° contrast
FebruaryAir 29°F · Water 144°F · +115° contrast
December offers 45°F more contrast than August
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature
147.2°F
(64.0°C)Measured Jun 03, 1980
Water ChemistrySampled 1980-06-03
The water at Zims Resort Hot Springs is alkaline (pH 9.4). It is notably rich in sulfate (traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation).
Overview
Grouse Campground is located just 16 miles from McCall, Idaho, on the shores of Goose Lake. Visitors enjoy canoeing, fishing and horseback riding.
Once on-site, you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature. If this option is available, you will need to first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your arrival as some remote areas have limited or...
What is the water temperature at Zims Resort Hot Springs?
Zims Resort Hot Springs has a water temperature of 144°F (62°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Zims Resort Hot Springs located?
Zims Resort Hot Springs is located in Valley County, Idaho at 3,825 feet elevation, near McCall. Coordinates: 45.0390°N, 116.2910°W.
How do I get to Zims Resort Hot Springs?
Zims Resort Hot Springs has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being Zims Road (55 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Zims Resort Hot Springs?
Yes, Grouse Campground is located nearby (6.4 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Zims Resort Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 9.4 (alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Zims Resort Hot Springs?
The water at Zims Resort Hot Springs reaches 144°F, which can cause severe burns. Do not enter the source pool directly — look for cooled side pools or downstream areas where the water has cooled to a safe temperature. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Zims Resort Hot Springs crowded?
Zims Resort 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 Zims Resort Hot Springs?
Essentials for Zims Resort Hot Springs: 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.