• Basin Creek Hot Springs is a hidden hot spring near a distinctive large rock outcropping
Basin Creek Hot Springs in Central Idaho blends wild scenery with natural geothermal soaking. It is a peaceful, undeveloped spot near the Salmon River, within easy reach of State Highway 75.
This welcoming Idaho hot spring sits about 8 miles east of Stanley, roughly 15 minutes by car. The area's elevation is about 6,100 feet, so mornings can feel crisp even in summer.
Here, you are surrounded by the Sawtooth National Forest with its tall pines and a distinctive rock outcropping by the creek. The river sound is steady and calm.
Basin Creek Hot Springs Experience
At Basin Creek, you get clear, mineral‑rich geothermal water in primitive, volunteer‑built pools. The experience is natural and beautiful in its simplicity.
The geothermal water emerges at near 145°F from several hillside vents, then moves through river rocks into small basins. Because the pools are small, they can heat up fast. Test the pool water first, and mix it with the creek water if necessary.
Riverside rock pools' temperature is adjustable by moving stones around to allow more creek water into the pools. Comfortable temperature would be from 95 to 104°F after mixing.
The water feels smooth on your skin and has a light sulfur odor that fades fast.
The trail to the pools from the parking spot is rough and slippery. Sturdy shoes are a must there.
Beyond Hot Springs: Other Adventures
There is plenty to do along SR‑75 and the Stanley basin. This part of Idaho is famous for having one of the highest concentrations of hot springs in the United States. Along the
Salmon River, South Fork Payette River, and throughout Boise National Forest, you will find dozens of soaking spots ranging from hidden creekside pools to roadside springs.
Stargazing: Dark skies with bright Milky Way on clear summer nights. Bring layers; nights can dip into the 40s–50s°F, even in July.
Fishing and rafting: The Salmon River runs cold and swift. Spring runoff (April–June) can be pushy; always check flows.
Short hikes: Sawtooth trailheads sit just up the highway. Wildflowers pop mid‑summer, and lake hikes are stunning.
Basin Creek Camping and Lodging
There's no camping at Basin Creek Hot Springs. The old Basin Creek Campground is permanently closed.
Mormon Bend Campground is the closest camping spot to the Basin Creek Hot Springs. It has 15 campsites, including 1 site near the river.
If you want to be more comfortable, you can stop at Mountain Village Lodge with its own geothermal bathing.
Other lodging options are available in Stanley, Lowman, and Idaho City.
Affordable vacation rentals for short and long-term stays at Stanley
Basin Creek Hot Springs | Facts
Location: 8 miles northeast of Stanley • Idaho • USA
Best time: Summer and fall
Development: Undeveloped
Clothing: Recommended
Amenities: None
Hiking distance: ~0.1 mile total; last ~400 feet down a narrow, slick trail
Road access: Any vehicle
Day-use fees: None
Water T° (source): ~145°F (63°C)
Water T° (pools): ~95–104°F after mixing with creek water
Odor: Light sulfur smell
More Adventures
Directions to Basin Creek Hot Springs
From Stanley,
- Travel on Highway 75 northeast for about 8 miles to the bridge over Basin Creek between mileposts 197 and 198
- After crossing the bridge, turn left onto unpaved Basin Creek Road.
Park in the small pullout on the right, and walk 150–160 feet up the unpaved Basin Creek Road, find the narrow trail dropping to the creek (last ~400 feet) and aim for the large, distinctive rock outcropping.