Kirkham Hot Springs features somewhat shallow rock pools with sand/rock bottoms next to the river. The multiple hot waterfalls offer an amazing photo opportunity. Both the pools and hot waterfalls can be seen from a large pullout off highway 21, on the west side of the campground. But be warned, this place is very popular during the summer and winter seasons, so expect a full house whenever you go. Regardless, taking a dip in a natural hot springs is not only extremely relaxing and therapeutic, it’s also another example of an affordable activity that can be done while enjoying the natural beauty of Idaho, and that’s why it makes the list of Boyle's Boise: 52 Things to Do and See.
When it’s not serving local families, visiting campers, fanatical “hot springers” and out-of-town passers-by, Kirkham additionally serves as an interpretive site for geothermal activity. There is a trail that winds through the seeps and sources, which continuously provide the hot springs pools with fresh mineral water. There are signs along the way that describe the hot springs and area history. A few things to know about Kirkham Hot Springs:
Unlike some of the other surrounding natural hot springs, we quickly found out that clothing is not optional. This is a well known and frequented family hot springs that is visible from a state highway. Kirkham is posted as requiring swimwear, which means the campground hosts are on the lookout. Hot spring goers commonly refer to places like Kirkham as textile soaks.
Kirkham Hot Springs is accessible year-round, but the campground is gated during winter months. The official open date is May 20th. The Banks-Lowman Highway and Highway 21 can be a nightmare during winter and spring storms and can close or make the road impassible due to giant rocks falling on the road, so ALWAYS check road reports prior to your departure.
Kirkham is an actual Boise National Forest Campground, and the hot springs are just a few steps away. Other National Forest camping sites/areas are also nearby off highway 21 (a few are listed below). Summers in this area can be hot, and you'll find no reprieve in the campground as there are no shaded sites.
The campground pit toilet is available during the warmer months, but in our opinion - it would be best to plan for your own bathroom accommodations. Enough said about that. Lowman has a gas station, but it is not always open (they seem to come and go on a regular basis). Otherwise, the closest gas and food is available either in Garden Valley or Idaho City.
Kirkham Campground is about 4.5 miles from Lowman along highway 21. Drive through the campground to find the small parking area and fee box. The hot springs are a short hike from the parking area. The campground and hot springs are well signed, and you can make a reservation at: Kirkham Campground Online Reservations.
The brief hike down to the pools can be treacherous during inclement weather, but is not that bad for most of the year. We recommend wearing good shoes/boots and bringing a hiking stick/trekking pole for balance. There is a $5 parking fee during the day and the hot springs have nighttime closure in effect from 10 pm to 6 am. If you want to hit multiple natural hot springs, here is a list of nearby spots: Bonneville Hot Springs Tenmile Hot Springs Sacajawea Hot Springs Pine Flats Hot Springs
About Me:
I have been living in Idaho for nearly my entire life, and the Treasure Valley has been my home for more than 30 years. In addition to constantly exploring the city and all of its activities, I am also very involved in the local philanthropy scene and have been working in the Mortgage industry as a Loan Officer for more than 35 years now. Additionally, my husband Michael had a 20+ year career in Real Estate. So, if you are new to the area and looking to lay down some roots for your family, get involved with some great causes, connect with like-minded people or just explore all that Boise has to offer – don’t hesitate to let me know.
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