• Campground Hot Springs sits on the bank of the South Fork Payette River
• You can find remnants of an old bathhouse there
Campground Hot Springs sits on the South Fork Payette River in the scenic Boise National Forest, 20 miles from Lowman. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing soak amidst Ponderosa pines and blooming wildflowers (season permitting) while the Payette River rushes past.
This location is an ideal base camp for rafting, canoeing, kayaking, and other outdoor adventures. Hot Springs Campground is situated on the opposite side of the road. The area can be noisy due to its proximity to the highway.
Campground Hot Springs Experience
Hot mineral water emerges from the source at 115°F and flows into three soaking pools. The best pool is the one at the end of the path, near the remnants of the old bathhouse. During our visit in July, the water in that pool was maintained at about 110°F.
The other two pools are rock and sand constructions right by the river. The temperature in them varies depending on the season and the river level. Those pools are seasonal as the river's high water submerges them during winter and spring.
Bathing suits are highly recommended, as you will be soaking in the immediate vicinity of the highway.
Beyond the Hot Springs: Other Adventures
The stretch along Highways 21 and 17, also known as the Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway and the Banks-Lowman Highway, respectively, is renowned for its abundant natural hot springs. These scenic byways are not just ways to get from point A to point B with a view. They are so much more! In addition to the breathtaking views, enjoy wildlife observation, informative historical kiosks, and a multitude of trails to enhance your overall experience.
The Payette River is not the most productive gold-panning river in Idaho. The South Fork of the river was not developed too much in the past, though. You still have relatively good chances to discover some treasure there. Make sure you have some experience with panning in the rough waters and are comfortable with it.
Rockhounding can be a productive pastime here, too. The rushing river consistently moves rocks around, and new collectible pieces can appear at any time.
Please review the regulations regarding gold panning and rock collection at the location before proceeding.
Camping & Lodging at Campground Hot Springs
Hot Springs Campground features eight single sites and three group sites, each equipped with picnic tables, grills, and campfire circles. Amenities include vault toilets, drinking water, and garbage service.
The nearest lodging is available in Stanley and Lowman.
Affordable vacation rentals for short and long term stay at Lowman
Mountain Village Lodge in Stanley which has its own hot springs
Campground Hot Springs | Facts
Location: 20 miles east of Lowman • Central Idaho • USA
Open: Year-round
Development: Undeveloped
Clothing: Recommended
Amenities: Campground, picnic tables, grills, fire rings, vault toilet, drinking water, and garbage service
Hiking distance: Short
Road access: Any vehicle
Day-use fees: None
Managed by: U.S. Forest Service
Elevation: 3,200 ft (980 m)
Water T° (source): 115°F (46°C)
Water T° (upper pool): 110°F (43°C) in July
Odor None
More Adventures
Directions to Campground Hot Springs
From Highway ID 55 at Bank,
- Take County Highway 17 east toward Garden Valley and travel 14 miles to milepost 14
- Turn right to the pullout at the river edge.
Hot Springs Campground is located on the left.
A steep 250-foot trail on the left of the parking lot leads down to the river and hot spring pools.
GPS (parking): N 44°03.257' W 115°54.465' | 44.0548, -115.908