• Burgdorf Hot Springs is a unique geothermal oasis in the Payette National Forest
• Features an Olympic-size pool with hot mineral water and small soaking tubs
Burgdorf Hot Springs is a rustic hot spring resort and ghost town nestled in the Payette National Forest, 30 miles north of McCall, Idaho. Surrounded by meadows and pine forests, it offers a unique chance to soak in mineral-rich waters while enjoying nature’s serenity.
Long before settlers arrived, Native Americans used the site for gatherings, spiritual ceremonies, healing, and sweat lodges. In the late 1860s, German miner Fred Burgdorf built a log hotel here.
Today, the original cabin, abandoned hotel, and other remnants give the area a ghost-town feel. In 1923, a new owner added a large log pool and cabins still in use today.
The springs were added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972.
Burgdorf Hot Springs Experience
Geothermal water emerges at 113°F (45°C) and flows into the main pool, cooling to 93–104°F (34–40°C) depending on weather. The mineral water flows at 150 gallons per minute, requiring no chemical treatment.
The main pool is 50 × 75 feet and 5 feet deep with a sandy bottom. A smaller children’s pool is 2 feet deep, and covered “Hot Box” tubs reach 110–113°F (43–45°C).
Burgdorf Hot Springs Accommodations
Guests can stay in one of 15 rustic cabins with wood stoves and oil lamps (no electricity or running water). Bring your own bedding, utensils, and essentials — this is “camping in a cabin.” Cabins must be reserved in advance; credit cards are not accepted. Traditional camping is also available a quarter mile away. A small store offers drinks, snacks, and basic groceries.
The resort is accessible by standard vehicles from June to October. In winter (December–April), access is by snowmobile only, available for rent in McCall. Burgdorf closes briefly in May and November when the road becomes impassable.
Beyond Hot Springs
Explore the surrounding Payette National Forest with hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. In winter, enjoy snowmobiling or cross-country skiing, or visit other nearby historic hot springs.
Burgdorf Hot Springs | Facts
Location: 30 miles north of McCall • Idaho • USA
Open: Year-round except for short periods in May and November
Development: Large hot pool, child pool, and soaking tubs
Clothing: Required
Amenities: Small store
Hiking distance: Short
Road Access: Any vehicle during dry months of summer, snowmobiles from December to April
Day-use: Yes with fees (reservation required)
Elevation: 6,100 ft (1,859 m)
Water T° (source): 113°F (45°C)
Water T° (large pool): 93-104°F (34-40°C)
Water T° (soaking tubs): 110-113°F (43-48°C)
Flow rate: 150 gallon/min
Chemical used: None
More Adventures
Directions to Burgdorf Hot Springs
From Highway ID-55 in McCall,
- Turn north onto Warren Wagon Road
- Drive 28.2 miles on Warren Wagon Road/NF-21 to Burgdorf Road
- Turn left onto Burgdorf Road/NF-246 and follow 1.7 miles to the destination.
Phone: 208-315-6657
E-mail: burgdorfhotsprings@gmail.com
burgdorfhotsprings.com