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Hot Springs Campground and Group sites
Hot Springs Campground has 3 group sites and 8 single sites. It is located just east of Garden Valley, Idaho, along the (Banks-Lowman road) State Highway 17 at an elevation of 3,200 feet.
Visitors enjoy rafting, kayaking and fishing on the South Fork Payette River, and soaking in the hot springs at the river's edge.
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.
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.
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 trail 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.
At a Glance
| Reservations: | Reservations can be made at www.recreation.gov at or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Fees for additional people will be collected at the campground as outlined in the fee schedule if party size is larger than expected. A fee will also be collected for extra vehicles at the campground. Additional single-family sites are available on a first come, first served basis and fee envelopes and a collection box are also provided near the entrance using cash or checks. |
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| Open Season: | Beginning of May - End of September |
| Closest Towns: | Garden Valley, Idaho |
| Water: | Pressurized drinking water |
| Restroom: | Vault and accessible for special needs |
General Information
Accessibility:All sites are accessible to people with disabilities.
Directions:
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From Boise, Idaho, take State Highway 55 north 35 miles to Banks, Idaho.
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Turn east onto the (Banks-Lowman Road) State Highway 17 and continue approximately 17 miles to the campground.
General Notes:
Facilities:
This campground offers 3 reservable group sites. A maximum of 25 vehicles are allowed on Group Sites 1 and 2; 10 vehicles are allowed in Site 3.
The campground contains 8 single sites, and 3 accessible group sites with picnic and serving tables, grills and campfire circles with benches. Group sites 1 and 2 can accommodate up to 200 people each; site 3 can accommodate up to 50 people.
Because of its proximity to the highway, some noise from passing traffic is to be expected.
Parking:
There is paved parking that can hold up to a 35 feet long recreational vehicle.
Activities
Campground Camping
Total of 8 sites.Group Camping
Group Camping is available. For reservations go to: www.recreation.gov or call 1-877.444-6777.
River and Stream Fishing
The Idaho Department of Fish and Game manages the river fisheries. Fishing is good to excellent most of the year. Fishing occurs from the riverbanks. Whitefish and rainbow trout are the predominate species.| Difficulty Level: | Intermediate |
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Big Game Hunting
Hunting is good on both sides of the river during the legal season. Due to the heavy highway traffic, hunting is best on the higher slopes. Big game (deer, elk & bear) is located throughout the surrounding mountains. This area is a winter range for deer and elk.| Difficulty Level: | Difficult |
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