Outdoors NearbyKirkham Hot Springs
Several pools and warm waterfalls spill over rock ledges beside the South Fork Payette River, about 5 miles east of Lowman on Highway 21. It is a day-use-only site with no overnight camping. Kirkham Hot Springs is on public land and free to visit.
| Access | Free, public land Day-use site on the Boise National Forest with a $5 per vehicle daily fee (also charged when parking along Highway 21); the Boise National Forest annual day-use pass is accepted. |
|---|---|
| Type | Natural spring |
| Location | Lowman, ID Managed by USFS Boise National Forest, Lowman Ranger District Directions |
| Water | 149 °F at the source (USGS/NOAA survey, 1980) |
| Prices | Day-use parking: $5 (per vehicle per day) Checked October 2026 on the operator's site |
| Hours | 7 am–9 pm daily (gate closes at 9 pm) |
| Season | End of May to end of September |
| Reservations | not needed |
| Parking | $5 per vehicle day-use fee or Boise National Forest annual day-use pass (Recreation.gov) |
| Dogs | Allowed (not in the pools) |
| Facilities | vault toilet, changing rooms, picnic tables |
| Website | fs.usda.gov |
| Phone | (208) 259-3361 |
Best time to soak: Kirkham Hot Springs
Kirkham Hot Springs is about 46 miles northeast of Boise, ID, measured in a straight line.
Soaking feels best when the air is cool. From November to April average highs near Lowman stay at 33 to 60 °F, with nights down to 19 °F. Freezing nights from November to March mean icy steps and possible road closures; traction for your shoes helps. From July to August highs reach 89 °F. In that heat, early mornings and evenings are the most comfortable time to soak. December is the wettest month with about 10 days of rain or snow. High water in spring can cover riverside pools.
| Month | High | Low | Rain days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 34 °F | 19 °F | 10 |
| Feb | 41 °F | 22 °F | 8 |
| Mar | 52 °F | 27 °F | 8 |
| Apr | 60 °F | 32 °F | 6 |
| May | 69 °F | 38 °F | 5 |
| Jun | 78 °F | 44 °F | 4 |
| Jul | 89 °F | 48 °F | 1 |
| Aug | 89 °F | 46 °F | 1 |
| Sep | 79 °F | 39 °F | 2 |
| Oct | 64 °F | 31 °F | 4 |
| Nov | 44 °F | 26 °F | 8 |
| Dec | 33 °F | 20 °F | 10 |
More to do nearby
- Big Falls (waterfall, 9 mi)
Pack for the hot springs
- Earth Pak roll-top waterproof dry bag Keeps your phone, keys and dry clothes safe on wet rocks next to the pool. View on Amazon
- Battery-free floating water thermometer Check a pool before you get in. Natural springs can run hotter than they look. View on Amazon
- Top pick 4Monster quick-dry microfiber towel with case Packs small for the hike to the pools and dries in the car on the way home. View on Amazon
We haven't tested these ourselves; we chose them by size and specs. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Check the current price on Amazon.
Other hot springs near Lowman
- Pine Flats Hot Springs Free
- Bonneville Hot Springs Free
- Hot Springs Campground hot spring Free
- Rocky Canyon Hot Springs Free
- Silver Creek Plunge Day pass
- The Springs Day pass
- Atlanta Hot Springs Free
- Elkhorn Hot Springs Free
Waterfalls nearby
- Big Falls (9 mi)
- Grandjean Creek Waterfall (20 mi)
- Fern Falls (23 mi)
Sources
Access, prices and rules come from these official pages, checked October 2026. Hot springs close for weather, repairs or high water, so confirm before you go.
Something changed? Tell us.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Kirkham Hot Springs cost?
Yes. Kirkham Hot Springs is on public land with no soaking fee; $5 per vehicle day-use fee or Boise National Forest annual day-use pass (Recreation.gov).
How hot is Kirkham Hot Springs?
149 °F at the source (USGS/NOAA survey, 1980). Pool temperatures are usually lower than at the source and change with the season.
Can you bring dogs to Kirkham Hot Springs?
Dogs are allowed, but keep them out of the soaking pools and on a leash where required.
When is Kirkham Hot Springs open?
7 am–9 pm daily (gate closes at 9 pm). End of May to end of September.
How far is Kirkham Hot Springs from Boise?
About 46 miles from Boise in a straight line; the drive is longer.