Discover The 5 Best Hot Springs Near Boise

Idaho is well-known for its agriculture and remote locations. However, the state also has a very neat attraction: hot springs. That’s right, the Gem State is home to numerous thermal waters. If you’re planning to visit Idaho, it’s always helpful to know about the most accessible hot springs in the area. Take a look at 5 of the best hot springs near Boise and see what makes them so pleasant to visit.

Keep in mind that while some of these are close to Boise, some of them are a fair bit away. Yet, the travel times are worth it to get to a very good hot springs experience.

Why Does Idaho Have Hot Springs?

Hot springs can form in many different ways. The simplest explanation is that geothermally heated groundwater makes its way to the surface. The water can be heated by coming close to shallow bodies of magma, and that is the case with many of them in Idaho.

Although Idaho is not home to famous active volcanoes like those found in the neighboring Washington State, the state is still volcanically active. Idaho has many young, small volcanoes such as the Shoshone lava fields, Craters of the Moon, and Kings Bowl.

The presence of such volcanic activity aided the development of hot springs throughout the state. Still, this is a very general overview of a complex subject, though.

The Top Hot Springs Near Boise

Whether you are camping near Boise or using the city as a base of operations for a fishing trip, it’s always nice to know that hot springs are nearby. Soaking in thermal waters can feel rejuvenating, and it’s a unique experience during cool weather. Given the unique geology of the region, there are several hot springs near Boise as well as some very good ones a bit farther away.

1. Mundo Hot Springs

The Mundo hot springs are about a two-hour drive from Boise. Located in Cambridge, Idaho, the Mundo hot springs are part of a larger campground that features a variety of amenities. From staying in the Pool House to regular cabins and RV hookups, visitors have many options for lodging.

The destination features a large pool that is filled via a continual flow of water from the hot springs. These springs are particularly interesting because they have a wheelchair-accessible ramp into the pool! The Mundo hot springs pool is drained and pressure-washed every week to keep it clean and safe.

This area is open all year long, and it’s certainly one of the best hot springs near Boise even though it’s a bit of a drive.

2. The Springs

The Springs is a hot spring retreat located in Idaho City. That’s close to 40 miles away and less than an hour’s drive. Unlike some of the more natural areas on this list, The Springs is a true retreat with a whole hotel, facilities, and even private tubs on-site or directly nearby.

These hot springs feature large communal tubs along with smaller ones that fit about four adults. The springs are open from Thursday to Monday, and they take reservations throughout most of the year.

These hot springs are reservation-only, though. So, you’ll need to plan and pay for access to them. Still, by going to these springs, you can avoid all the hassles that come with public hot springs such as overcrowding and cleanliness issues. With all the amenities and great waters, these are definitely some of the best hot springs near Boise.

3. Roystone Hot Springs  

The Roystone Hot Springs are a combination of campgrounds and hot springs located in Sweet, Idaho. These hot springs are located roughly 40 miles from Boise, and that equals about one hour of driving. Getting into the pool fed by hot springs water requires a reservation, but it offers a great deal of space for people to enjoy.

The Roystone Hot Springs also has hot tubs, an event center for rent, extensive campgrounds, and all sorts of open areas to play sports.

4. Gold Fork Hot Springs

The Gold Fork Hot Springs are roughly 97 miles from Boise in Donnelly. It’s roughly a two-hour drive. However, these springs are some of the best-kept relaxing pools in this part of the state.  

These hot springs are a bit off the beaten path, but they’re surrounded by nature and accessible throughout the year. The area has six soaking pools that are drained and cleaned weekly.

The Gold Fork Hot Springs are typically open between 12 p.m. and 8 p.m., but they’re closed on Tuesdays. The admission price is only $10 per person. The area offers changing rooms, lockers, and even heated sidewalks according to the owner’s website.

5. Kirkham Hot Springs

The Kirkham Hot Springs are a fair drive away from Boise, but they are worth the journey. Located almost 80 miles away, you’ll have to drive almost two hours out of Boise to reach this destination. Still, they are some of the best hot springs near Boise.

Currently, the hot springs are open for the daytime only. No overnight camping is allowed. The site costs $5 per vehicle to access, but it does not have many amenities. The Kirkham Hot Springs is about as natural as hot springs get, and that’s attractive to its visitors.

Unfortunately, the area has had a significant problem with visitors not cleaning up their trash. That has prompted the site to close in the past and put restrictions on the available hours. The best hot springs near Boise are within about an hour or two-hour drive. They range from all-natural areas to amenity-laden resort areas. That means people seeking a variety of different experiences can find the hot springs to suit them!

Summary Of The 5 Best Hot Springs Near Boise