Outdoors NearbyRocky Canyon Hot Springs
Pools of varied temperature sit across the Middle Fork Payette River along Middlefork Road north of Crouch, with more pools farther upriver. Reaching them requires a river ford. Rocky Canyon Hot Springs is on public land and free to visit.
| Access | Free, public land Natural pools on the far side of the Middle Fork Payette River; you have to ford the river, which can be high and cold. Best in late spring and summer. |
|---|---|
| Type | Natural spring |
| Location | Garden Valley, ID Directions (approximate location; check the official map) |
| Season | Best late spring through summer when the river can be crossed |
Best time to soak: Rocky Canyon Hot Springs
Rocky Canyon Hot Springs is about 47 miles north of Boise, ID, measured in a straight line.
From November to April average highs around Garden Valley 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.
| 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, 15 mi)
Pack for the hot springs
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Illustration SIMARI quick-dry water shoes for women and men Grip on slick rock and gravel pool bottoms, and they dry fast on the walk out. View on Amazon - Cold-day pick SUN CUBE hooded changing robe poncho Change in and out of a wet suit at a trailhead with no changing room, and stay warm after a winter soak. View on Amazon
- 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.
More hot springs nearby
- Silver Creek Plunge Day pass
- Hot Springs Campground hot spring Free
- Pine Flats Hot Springs Free
- Kirkham Hot Springs Free
- Vulcan Hot Springs Free
- Trail Creek Hot Springs Free
- Bonneville Hot Springs Free
- Gold Fork Hot Springs Day pass
Waterfalls nearby
- Big Falls (15 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 Rocky Canyon Hot Springs free?
Yes. Rocky Canyon Hot Springs is on public land with no soaking fee.
When is Rocky Canyon Hot Springs open?
Best late spring through summer when the river can be crossed.
How far is Rocky Canyon Hot Springs from Boise?
About 47 miles from Boise in a straight line; the drive is longer.