About HOT SPRINGS
Overview Hot Springs Campground is located just east of Garden Valley, Idaho along the Banks-Lowman Highway at an elevation of 3169 feet. Visitors enjoy rafting, kayaking, fishing on the South Fork Payette River, and soaking in the hot springs at the river's edge. Recreation The South Fork Payette River is across the road from the campground, offering fishing, whitewater rafting, and kayaking. A natural hot springs soaking pool is located on the river directly across the road and down a staircase.Facilities The campground contains three accessible group sites with picnic and serving tables, grills and campfire circles with benches. Sites 1 and 2 can accommodate up to 200 people each; Site 3 can accommodate up to 50 people. Vault toilets, drinking water and trash collection are provided. Because of its proximity to the highway, some noise from passing traffic is to be expected.Natural Features The campground is situated at the foot of a forested hillside. Towering Ponderosa pines are scattered throughout the site, offering partial shade. Summer wildflowers dot the landscape. Nearby Attractions Numerous natural hot springs pools can be found along the Banks-Lowman Highway, also known as the Wildlife Canyon Scenic Byway. The area offers scenic views, wildlife watching, historical information kiosks, and several hiking opportunities. Whitewater rafting and kayaking are popular activities on the South Fork and Main Payette Rivers. Several companies in the area offer guided half and full-day trips.
How to Get There
From Boise, Idaho, take State Highway 55 north 35 miles to Banks. Turn east onto the Banks-Lowman Highway and go 17 miles to the campground, which is on the lefthand side of the highway.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
UPF sun shirt (long sleeve)
Cooler than direct sun on bare skin.
- 🩳
Light shorts/skirt
Loose-fit, breathable.
- 🧢
Wide-brimmed sun hat
Plus a buff/bandana you can wet for cooling.
- 🕶
Polarized sunglasses
Critical for glare from sun + sand/water.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection (UV 8)
SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to HOT SPRINGS
Heading to HOT SPRINGS? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for HOT SPRINGS?
No central reservation system listed for HOT SPRINGS. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232060) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to HOT SPRINGS?
From Boise, Idaho, take State Highway 55 north 35 miles to Banks. Turn east onto the Banks-Lowman Highway and go 17 miles to the campground, which is on the lefthand side of the highway.
How do I contact HOT SPRINGS?
You can reach the park at phone: 541-351-1182.
References & Official Resources
