KIRKHAM HOT SPRINGS

Nestled between two mountains, with the highway and a rushing river, the layout of campsites is a bit curious as is the evidence of hot springs…..water seeping out of the hillside and running into a small stream barely deep enough to wade in and wisps of steam being the only indication of hot water.  We choose a site as close to the water as possible, wondering if wading in the small amount of run-off is all the hot springs soaking we will get to experience. Oh well, it is pleasant enough for one night’s camp. The rushing water of the Payette River is enough to provide ambience and distract from highway sounds. Next to the largest area of water seepage, a large camp is already set up with several tents, some towels strung out to dry, and a campfire.  The towels offer some encouragement of more water than what we see!  A couple of cars are parked in a day-use area, but not many people are actually around any of this area of water. 

We set up the tent, then walk around to investigate what looks like an information board. Here we discover a trail leading down a hillside where more seeping water is cascading off a rocky hillside into numerous naturally formed pools next to the river.  YAY!

We hurry back to the bus to change into our swim suits, grab our towels, and head down to soak. The natural pools of hot water are formed by big boulders and vary in temperature from extremely hot and almost unbearable to comfortably hot soaking temps. They are deep enough to get our bodies wet if we recline.  The river is COLD especially in contrast to the hot water! Here is also where we find people from the cars and camps. A couple of families with children of varying ages from an infant to young teens are having a great time. It feels good just lie back and relax in the warm waters and enjoy our evening soak. Before it gets dark, we head back to the camper to change, have a bit to eat, and then snuggle in for a peaceful night’s