• Mormon Bend Hot Springs get submerged during winter runoffs
• You will have to ford the river to access the springs
Mormon Bend Hot Springs sits on the bank of the Salmon River in the scenic Sawtooth National Forest, 7.4 miles northeast of Stanley, Idaho.
Hot mineral water comes from the ground at 100°F (38°C) into one or two pools and then cools down further. The pools are simple rock-and-sand constructions and have to be rebuilt after every spring season.
This undeveloped hot spring sits on the river's opposite bank and might be tricky to get to. You will have to ford the river, which can only be done during summer and fall when the water level is low. It, however, increases your chances of soaking in solitude.
Clothing is optional but highly recommended since the pool is visible from the highway. The closest services are located in Stanley.
You can visit multiple hot springs nearby, including Basin Creek Hot Springs, Cove Creek (Kem) Hot Springs, Boat Box (Elkhorn) Hot Springs, Sunbeam Hot Springs, and Snake Pit Hot Springs.
Visitors can fish for trout and steelhead in the Salmon River and surrounding creeks. Also, a designated put-in for float boaters is located within the campground.
Mormon Bend Campground
Mormon Bend Campground has 15 campsites, including one double-site near the river. All sites are first-come, first-served. Some campground sections are in a lodgepole pine forest, and others are in sagebrush and open meadows.
Be sure to download the free Recreation.gov mobile app before you arrive. Although you will pay upon arrival, you must scan the QR code to claim your site via the app.
The campground is seasonal and is open from April to September.
If you have no taste for camping, you can stop at Mountain Village Lodge, which offers geothermal bathing as well. Other lodging options are available in Stanley, Lowman, and Idaho City.
Affordable vacation rentals for short and long term stay at Stanley
Mountain Village Lodge in Stanley which has its own hot springs
Mormon Bend Hot Springs | Facts
Location: 7 miles northeast of Stanley • Central Idaho • USA
Best time: Summer and fall
Development: Undeveloped
Clothing: Optional
Amenities: None
Hiking distance: Short, requires fording the river
Road access: Any vehicle
Day-use fees: None
Managed by: U.S. Forest Service
Elevation: 6,100 ft (1,860 m)
Water T° (source): 100°F (38°C)
Water T° (pools): Vary
Odor: Present
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Directions to Mormon Bend Hot Springs
From Stanley,
- Take ID-75 and travel northeast for 6.7 miles
- Turn right near milepost 196 onto Forest Rd 70624a.
Park at the Mormon Bend Campground. Walk to the river and cross it close to the corner of the river bend. The hot spring is located on the gravel bar.