• Cove Creek Hot Springs is a small primitive soaking spot on the bank of the Salmon River
Cove Creek Hot Springs, also known as Kem Hot Springs, is a small undeveloped soaking spot sitting on the bank of the Salmon River in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. Located 10 minutes east of the town of Stanley, this picturesque location offers rejuvenating hot mineral water soak in the beautiful Idaho nature. Enjoy the soak with the Salmon River flowing right by you, surrounded by the wooded hills of Central Idaho.
Geothermal mineral water seeps out of the riverbed and flows to the volunteer-built rock-and-sand pools. The water temperature varies greatly depending on the season and the river level. During our last visit at the beginning of September, it was 107°F. The water temperature can be easily adjusted by adding river water to the pools. The river level gets high in winter and spring, enough to submerge the hot springs.
This geothermal spot is popular because of its location right near the highway. You only have to take a short, easy trail walk from the parking area to the pools.
There is a vault toilet in the parking, but no camping is allowed on-site. The nearest Basin Creek Campground is on Basin Creek Road, 1.4 miles away.
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Cove Creek Hot Springs (Kem Hot Springs) | Facts
Location: 9 miles northwest of Stanley • Idaho • USA
Open: Year-round
Development: Undeveloped
Clothing: Recommended
Amenities: Vault toilet
Accommodations: Basin Creek Campground - 1.4 miles away
Hiking distance: Short
Road access: Any vehicle
Day-use fees: None
Elevation: 6,000 ft (1,829 m)
Water T° (source): 133°F (56°C)
Water T° (tub): Adjustable
Odor: None
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Directions to Cove Creek Hot Springs
From Stanley
- Travel 9 miles north on Highway 75 to the destination on the right.