Hot Springs

Star0
3 reviews
EMMETT RANGER DISTRICT, 1857 HIGHWAY 16, SUITE A, EMMETT, ID 83617, USA
Hot Springs
$106.00 - $300.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The fees for Group Sites 1 and 2 are $106.48 for 1-100 people and $212.96 for 101-200 people. Site 3 accommodates up to 50 people and costs $106.48....
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Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$106.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$106.00

Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
541-351-1182

About this campground

Nestled along the rushing waters of the South Fork Payette River, Hot Springs Campground beckons adventurers with its unique blend of natural wonders and outdoor thrills. Here, you can cast a line into pristine mountain waters, navigate exhilarating whitewater rapids, or simply unwind in the soothing embrace of natural hot springs just steps from your campsite. Three spacious group sites accommodate gatherings of friends and family, while modern amenities including vault toilets, fresh drinking water, and regular trash collection ensure comfort in this wilderness setting.
Hot Springs Campground offers group camping exclusively across its three group sites. No individual or family-specific camping options are detailed.
Historical SignificanceYour journey here follows the storied Wildlife Canyon Scenic Byway, a route that weaves through centuries of Western history. Interpretive kiosks along the way reveal tales of early settlers, Native American heritage, and the region's rich past. Keep your camera ready as this corridor serves as a natural wildlife viewing area where elk, deer, and countless bird species make regular appearances against the dramatic canyon backdrop.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this mountain retreat into an outdoor paradise, with July and August offering perfect camping conditions. Daytime temperatures climb to a pleasant low 90s, ideal for river adventures, before cooling to crisp, star-filled evenings around the campfire. The dry mountain air and minimal precipitation create an almost endless string of bluebird days, making every sunrise a promise of outdoor adventure.
ElevationPerched at 3,169 feet above sea level, the campground occupies a sweet spot in the mountains where cool pine-scented breezes temper the summer heat. This elevation creates an ideal climate that energizes morning hikes and ensures comfortable sleeping temperatures even during the warmest months.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering Ponderosa pines stand sentinel over the campground, their vanilla-scented bark and spreading branches creating a natural cathedral of dappled sunlight and shade. The forest floor erupts in a painter's palette of wildflowers each summer, from delicate lupines to vibrant Indian paintbrush, while the South Fork Payette River provides a constant soundtrack of rushing water.
Geological RegionSet within the majestic Boise National Forest, this campground occupies a geological wonderland where ancient volcanic activity has blessed the landscape with therapeutic hot springs. The forested hillside shelters campsites beneath old-growth Ponderosa pines, while the dynamic South Fork Payette River has carved a canyon that showcases millions of years of geological history. Summer wildflowers paint the understory in brilliant hues, creating a living tapestry that changes with each passing week of the season.
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Campsite details

AccessibilityThe campground contains three accessible group sites, but no additional details about accessibility features or compliance with specific accessibility standards are provided.
Sites SizeGroup Sites 1 and 2 can accommodate up to 200 people each, while Site 3 accommodates up to 50 people.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is located near a highway, and the proximity to the road may reduce privacy due to traffic noise. No additional information about the seclusion of individual sites is available.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 3 is suitable for smaller groups given its capacity of up to 50 people.
Best CampsitesGroups Sites 1 and 2 are recommended for larger groups due to their capacity to accommodate up to 200 people.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
Check-out time is typically by 12:00 PM noon.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 200 people at group sites.
Groups
Group Sites 1 and 2 accommodate up to 200 people and allow a maximum of 25 vehicles each. Site 3 accommodates up to 50 people with a maximum of 10 vehicles. A fee is collected for extra people or vehicles that exceed these limits.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground is divided into three group sites with accessible facilities, including picnic tables and grills.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground operates from May 23 to September 6 during its peak season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, phone, or various in-person methods.
Walk-in AvailabilityAdditional single-family sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Walk-up availability for group sites is explicitly not mentioned.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the scheduled arrival date. Late cancellations involve forfeiting the first night's recreation use fee and a $10 cancellation fee. Group facilities must be canceled at least 14 calendar days before check-in to avoid additional penalties.

Accomodation available

GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.

Amenities available

Potable water
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

The Hot Springs Campground provides opportunities for whitewater rafting, kayaking, and fishing on the South Fork Payette River, located across the road from the campground. A natural hot spring soaking pool is also accessible directly across the road via a staircase. Wildlife viewing and nearby hiking opportunities add to the recreational options. Guided whitewater trips are available through local companies.
Hiking
The surrounding area offers several hiking opportunities, but no specific trails or difficulty levels are mentioned.
Fishing
Fishing is available on the South Fork Payette River across the road from the campground. However, specific information about fish species or fishing quality is not provided.
Boating
Whitewater rafting and kayaking are popular activities on the South Fork Payette River. Several companies in the area offer guided trips.
Wildlife viewing
The nearby Wildlife Canyon Scenic Byway offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, but no specific species or prime viewing locations are detailed.
Winter Activities
No winter-specific recreational activities are mentioned.
Water Sports
Kayaking and whitewater rafting are the primary water sports available at the campground.
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Campground rules

  • Pets are not allowed
  • Firewood should be sourced locally to prevent the spread of tree-killing pests. Rules regarding campfires are not explicitly stated.

Hazards

General hazardsPotential noise from nearby traffic may affect the camping experience. Wildlife safety precautions should be observed.

Weather forecast

42
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Humidity: 50%

Moderately humid conditions

Wind: 1.4 mph

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Clear sky

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Emergency Services

Nearest emergency services include Garden Valley Fire Department (approximately 17 miles) and medical facilities in Boise, Idaho (approximately 52 miles).

Good to know

Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - September 6, 2025 (Peak Season)
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is provided at the campground, but there are no details about recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresThe South Fork Payette River is directly across the road, along with a natural hot springs soaking pool.
Common complaintsSome user reviews note the misrepresentation of space for RV parking and challenges in communicating with management for refunds.
HostCamp hosts are available on-site and assist with enforcing rules, although some users report issues with rule enforcement and management communication.

Campground Map

EMMETT RANGER DISTRICT, 1857 HIGHWAY 16, SUITE A, EMMETT, ID 83617, USA
Driving directionsFrom 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.
The campground is located directly off the Banks-Lowman Highway, making it easily accessible. However, some noise from passing traffic is to be expected due to its proximity to the highway.
Nearby places
Boise, Idaho: 52 miles (approximately 1 hour drive)
Banks, Idaho: 17 miles (approximately 20 minutes drive)
Emmett, Idaho: 58 miles (approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes drive).
Nearby supplies
Grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Garden Valley, Idaho, approximately 17 miles from the campground.

Camper Reviews

0.0
3 reviews
Limited Reviews
Limited Reviews
Hot Springs has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews of the Hot Springs Campground are mixed, with some users praising the relaxing hot springs and partial seclusion, while others criticize the facilities and management. Common sentiments include enjoyment of the natural hot springs and dissatisfaction with the group site sizes and management communication.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive reviews highlight the natural hot springs soaking pool as a relaxing and refreshing feature. One user remarked, 'This bifar is the most relaxing place! Whether it's 10 minutes or an hour,...
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Based on 3 reviews

Common Concerns

Negative feedback includes complaints about the group site sizes not meeting expectations, with one user stating, 'Space was extremely misrepresented. It’s not nearly big enough for 5 RVs.' Poor...
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Based on 3 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend including the hot springs on your to-do list, as highlighted in one review: 'Definitely recommend this in your to-do list of places to go and there's campsites straight across the...
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Based on 3 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground appears to be less crowded during September based on user reviews. General sentiment indicates that summer months may be busy due to the peak season for rafting and hot springs...
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Based on 3 reviews

Camper Quotes

'This bifar is the most relaxing place! Whether it's 10 minutes or an hour, you are refreshed when you leave.' - Patricia Sullivan. 'The pool is big enough for 5-7 people and it’s not too shallow. It...
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Based on 3 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Group Site 3 (GRP3) has been specifically criticized for space issues, with one reviewer stating it was 'not big enough for 5 RVs.'
Based on 3 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews about the campground's accessibility features are available.
Based on 3 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No user reviews specifically address pet policies or pet-friendliness at the campground.
Based on 3 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
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