Red River Hot Springs

Spring Synopsis: Semi-rustic hot spring resort offers swimming, soaking and a sauna, in a remote location in the Clearwater Mountains.

Seasonal Accessibility: Open year round, elevation is 4,600 feet.

Camping Availability: Call (208) 842-2587 for availability.
Several rustic, one-room cabins are available.  Each contains propane cook top, bedding, all cooking utensils, propane light and wood heat.  A bathhouse is located nearby with restrooms, showers and running water.  Modern units include a fireplace, TV & VCR, and some of the bathrooms have Jacuzzi tubs.  Reservations are encouraged.

Restrictions/Permits: Clothing is required in all public spaces.  Adults can swim all day for $5, kids go for $4.  Private baths are $4 per hour.

Services at spring: A restaurant is open 9a.m. to 9p.m. daily.  Swimsuit and towel rentals are available on site.

The Spring(s): Hot and cold artesian springs provide all the water needed to run this resort.  Five hot springs issue at temperatures around 120°, and are gravity fed into a variety of pools.  The large outdoor swimming pool is kept at about 85° and treated with chlorine.  A tiled hot tub is next to the pool and ranges from 102°-105°.  Several private rooms offer regular bathtubs where you can take in the waters in solitude.  A unique rock sauna is between the pool and private areas; even if you don’t want to sweat you should check it out.  There are also two round, galvanized metal troughs that offer baths away from the main pool area.  One of these has been named the “drunk tank” for reasons that don’t need explanation.  None of the hot pools are chemically treated.

Directions: From Riggins take Highway 95 north to Grangeville, where you’ll then take Highway 13 east.  Follow this for 11.3 miles a right turn onto Highway 14, which curves around and follows the South Fork of the Clearwater River all the way to Elk City, 48.2 miles later.  At this point watch for a right turn onto a paved road, signed to Red River.  Continue for 14.3 miles then take the left fork.  This road quickly turns to a gravel surface; luckily the hot springs are only another 10.3 miles.

--from Soakers Bible