Hmm.. WHERE TO CAMP TONIGHT?

Looking through the Idaho RV guide that we picked up in Ketchum, we debate about our options for tonight’s campsite.  Most of those listed are RV parks and still a bit rustic with limited amenities. We would prefer a State or Federal site, of which there are even fewer choices.  We decide to travel on while studying our options a little more. We discover a camp described as being near a hot springs.  Now this sounds intriguing!  Even though it lists basic amenities and sounds rustic, the idea of soaking in natural hot springs is quite inviting. The directions are vague, giving a county road and mileage from Idaho City.  And of course we have no idea where we are in relation to that. Watching for County Road signs is challenging, especially on winding roads in a narrow mountain valley. 

Remembering that we neglected to restock our ice while in Stanley (we must have been too focused on the prospect of a refreshing cup of coffee in the great outdoors!) we decide our first priority is ICE! And if this campsite is truly as rustic as it sounds, we better get more ice before we stop for the night for sure! Rounding a curve we enter a small inhabited area with a little general store and stop there hoping for a supply of ice. A few Bikers have also stopped and are having some refreshment. They are friendly and strike up a conversation with Tommy. The bus has a way of inviting conversations! Another father and son, with some friends, are enjoying this gorgeous day with a motorcycle ride from Boise to Stanley.  They know of the hot springs but admit they can’t describe it or offer us specific directions, not sure of just where or how far the turn off is.  Encouraged that it does exist and might be worth finding, we begin watching carefully for any sign. Our caution isn’t necessary. A large sign for Kirkham Hot Springs is very easy to spot with plenty of time to make the turn.