Hot Springs, near Emmett, Idaho, is a cozy campground that offers a unique blend of relaxation and accessibility. With a handful of sites and a couple of spacious group areas, it’s perfect for those looking to unwind after a day of soaking in the nearby hot springs.

The campground is conveniently located right off the highway, making it easy to access. Visitors often highlight the inviting hot springs just across the road, where you can enjoy a warm soak with a stunning riverside view. As one camper noted, “Sitting in the warm pool right across the street!” adds a special touch to the experience.

While the amenities include fire pits and restrooms, some campers have mentioned that the campground can get a bit crowded, especially on weekends. The surrounding trees provide some shade, but it’s not a heavily wooded area, so don’t expect deep cover for hammock hanging. 

For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, the Boise National Forest is nearby, offering plenty of opportunities for hiking and exploring the great outdoors. Whether you’re here for a quick getaway or a longer stay, Hot Springs is a solid choice for those looking to enjoy the natural beauty of Idaho while having easy access to some relaxing hot springs.

## Overview

 Hot Springs Campground is located just east of Garden Valley, Idaho along the Banks-Lowman Highway at an elevation of 3169 feet. Visitors enjoy rafting, kayaking, fishing on the South Fork Payette River, and soaking in the hot springs at the river's edge. 
## Recreation

 The South Fork Payette River is across the road from the campground, offering fishing, whitewater rafting, and kayaking. A natural hot springs soaking pool is located on the river directly across the road and down a staircase.
## Natural Features

 The campground is situated at the foot of a forested hillside. Towering Ponderosa pines are scattered throughout the site, offering partial shade. Summer wildflowers dot the landscape. 
## Nearby Attractions

 Numerous natural hot springs pools can be found along the Banks-Lowman Highway, also known as the Wildlife Canyon Scenic Byway. The area offers scenic views, wildlife watching, historical information kiosks, and several hiking opportunities. Whitewater rafting and kayaking are popular activities on the South Fork and Main Payette Rivers. Several companies in the area offer guided half and full-day trips.

Hot Springs

Searching for the best camping near Garden Valley, ID? Garden Valley is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Garden Valley, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Garden Valley

The Best Camping Near Garden Valley, Idaho

This campground is really easy to find.  A little before Lowman, right off the road. Average amenities for tent camping. (Only park on the paved road) The camp host is really kind and helpful. There are hot springs right across the street with a beautiful soaking pool and river side view. Good breakfast in Lowman and amazing hot springs in the area! 

Hot Springs!

I have camped a couple times at Hot Springs campground. Pros are that it is easy to get to (campground is literally right off the highway), only about an hour and 20 minutes from Boise, and the amenities are nice (fire pits, tables, bathrooms, etc). The best part about this campground is it is right across the highway from an awesome little Hot Springs pool overlooking the river. Easy access any time of year. The main reason I gave it 3 stars is because I like to feel a little more secluded / not right beside the highway when I camp. On that note... Cons are that since it is so easy to access, it can often be very crowded, especially on weekends obviously. You do have to pay for parking / camping, and it is not very secluded - you can hear cars passing on the highway. There is some shade but not on every site. In my opinion, this campground would be best to camp at in early spring or fall.

Nice Campground & Easy Access Hot Springs

Haven’t been camping here yet but I plan to. My son and I come here a couple times a year to soak in the hot springs.

Hot springs 👌🏼

This is a very small campground, less than a dozen sites, with two very large group sites near a sand volleyball court. There are some trees, but not enough to provide deep shade or decent hammock hanging. BUT. Right across the road are steps that take you to a nice clear hot spring pool. The campground seemed crowded even though it really wasn’t. And it’s right on the road at street level so there is a fair amount of road noise. I might skip this one in the future are there are better campgrounds further up the road.

Photos of Hot Springs

Real photos from real campers