• Pine Flats Hot Springs is a scenic hot spring site at the river's bank
• The campground has 24 sites and can be a perfect base camp to explore the area
Pine Flats Hot Springs sits on the bank of the South Fork Payette River in the Boise National Forest, 6 miles southwest of Lowman. This scenic location is an exceptional destination to camp in a developed campground, hike to the cliff's hot springs, and relax in hot water in the midst of beautiful nature.
Geothermal Water & Soaking
Hot spring water emerges from the cliff at 115° F (46° C) and flows down to 2 man-made soaking pools built on the cliff. The top pool has the highest temperature of about 110°F (43°C) but is tiny, and even one person can't submerge there fully. The pool below is deeper with temperature ranges from 97°F (36°C) to 100°F (38°C).
Also, there is a bathing opportunities on the river level. A steaming waterfall flows down from the multicolored cliff into two cascading pools. The water temperature depends on the weather conditions.
The hot springs are a 0.25-mile away from the parking lot. While the trail is easy, be careful while descending to the pools. Slope and loose rocks can be dangerous, so wear good shoes.
In addition to soaking and camping, you can enjoy fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and rafting on the South Fork Payette River. Also, Boise National Forest is heaven for biking and hiking in summer and cross-country skiing in winter!
There is a parking fee if you don't plan to stay overnight. Lowman Ranger District prohibits nudity, pets, soap, and glass policy.
Camping & Lodging
Pine Flats Campground has 24 sites with picnic tables, grills, and fire rings. There are also vault toilets, drinking water, and garbage services. Dense ponderosa pine trees create a comfortable shade around the campground.
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
Pine Flats Hot Springs | Facts
Location: 6 miles southwest of Lowman • Central Idaho • USA
Open: Year-round
Development: Primitive
Clothing: Mandatory
Amenities: Campground, picnic tables, drinking water, fire rings, restrooms, garbage services
Hiking distance: 0.25 miles
Road access: Any vehicle
Day-use fees: Yes or Interagency Passes
Managed by: US Forest Service
Elevation: 3,680 ft (1,122 m)
Water T° (source): 115° F (46° C)
Water T° (pools): <110° F (43° C)
Odor: None
More Adventures
Directions to Pine Flats Hot Springs
From Lowman,
- Take County Highway 17 for 5.2 miles
- Turn left onto Forest Road 024F and follow it for 0.3 miles.
GPS (parking): N 44°03.766' W 115°40.974' | 44.06277, -115.68290