Outdoors NearbyLower Loon Creek Hot Springs
A natural hot spring next to the Big Loon camp on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River in the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness. It is visited by rafters on permitted multi-day trips. You can soak at Lower Loon Creek Hot Springs for free.
| Access | Free, public land Reached only by floating the Middle Fork of the Salmon River (river mile 49.3). A Forest Service permit is required; May 28–September 3 launches go through a lottery. |
|---|---|
| Type | Natural spring |
| Location | Idaho Managed by USFS Salmon-Challis NF (Middle Fork Ranger District) Directions (approximate location; check the official map) |
| Prices | Middle Fork special recreation fee: $4.00 per person per day (or Salmon Rivers Season Pass; $6 lottery/reservation fee) Checked October 2026 on the operator's site |
| Season | Float season; permits by lottery May 28–September 3 |
| Reservations | required |
| Camping | Big Loon camp, right bank (assigned river camp) (0 mi) |
Best time to soak: Lower Loon Creek Hot Springs
From November to April average highs near Idaho stay at 33 to 57 °F, with nights down to 15 °F. With lows at 15 to 25 °F from November to March, bring warm layers for getting out of the water.
| Month | High | Low | Rain days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 34 °F | 16 °F | 5 |
| Feb | 40 °F | 18 °F | 3 |
| Mar | 50 °F | 25 °F | 4 |
| Apr | 57 °F | 31 °F | 5 |
| May | 67 °F | 38 °F | 5 |
| Jun | 75 °F | 44 °F | 6 |
| Jul | 86 °F | 48 °F | 2 |
| Aug | 85 °F | 46 °F | 2 |
| Sep | 76 °F | 39 °F | 3 |
| Oct | 61 °F | 31 °F | 4 |
| Nov | 43 °F | 23 °F | 5 |
| Dec | 33 °F | 15 °F | 6 |
More to do nearby
- Veil Falls (waterfall, 23 mi)
Pack for the hot springs
-
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- 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
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.
Hot springs in the area
- Whitey Cox Hot Springs Free
- Hospital Bar Hot Springs Free
- Sunflower Hot Springs Free
- Sheepeater Hot Springs Free
- Challis Hot Springs Day pass
- Sunbeam Hot Springs Free
- Elkhorn Hot Springs Free
- Goldbug Hot Springs Free
Waterfalls nearby
- Veil Falls (23 mi)
- Golden Creek Falls (25 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
Is Lower Loon Creek Hot Springs free?
Yes. Lower Loon Creek Hot Springs is on public land with no soaking fee.
When is Lower Loon Creek Hot Springs open?
Float season; permits by lottery May 28–September 3.
Can you camp near Lower Loon Creek Hot Springs?
Big Loon camp, right bank (assigned river camp) (0 mi).