Zims Hot Springs - Day-use fee or pay-per-soak in New Meadows, ID (2026)
Two outdoor pools managed by the Nez Perce Tribe offer sweeping Meadow Valley views plus a small RV park and snack shack.
Zims Hot Springs is a small developed soaking property in the Meadows Valley near New Meadows, Idaho — owned and operated by the Nez Perce Tribe, with two outdoor pools fed by a 142°F mineral source cooled to safe soaking temperatures. The property includes a small RV park, a snack shack, and basic locker rooms. It's the most affordable developed soak in the area ($12 adult), about 35 minutes north of McCall and a popular detour for travelers heading to Hells Canyon or the Salmon River drainage. Tribal-owned operation; hours and seasonal schedule shift based on staffing — confirm before driving.
What to expect
Drive Highway 95 to New Meadows, then a few miles east. Pay $12 at the entrance. Two outdoor pools at varying temperatures (one warmer for soaking, one cooler for laps and play). Locker rooms basic. RV sites and tent camping for overnight ($25-40). Snack shack handles light meals. Pair with the McCall area resort scene (35 minutes south) or Hells Canyon (90 minutes west) for a longer trip.
Temperature
99°-106°F
Pools
2 soaking pools
Best season
Year-round
Reservations
Walk-up friendly
Dog policy
No pets at pools
Family policy
Family windows available
Safety notes
- Winter operating days shift weekly—confirm on Facebook before driving from McCall.
- Sulfur content can discolor silver jewelry; remove before soaking.
Amenities & etiquette
FAQ
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Nearby hot springs
Burgdorf Hot Springs
McCall, ID
This 1870s mining-era resort keeps its hand-hewn bathhouse, two massive log-lined pools, and a handful of dry cabins tucked in the Payette National Forest. In winter the only way in is by snowmobile or fat bike, turning the soak into a full adventure.
Goldbug Hot Springs
Salmon, ID
A two-mile climb up BLM Trail #642 leads to cliffside tubs with sweeping views of the Salmon River Mountains. Backpackers spread out across primitive campsites tucked between the cascades and the main overlook pool.
Jerry Johnson Hot Springs
Lowell, ID
A swinging bridge over Warm Springs Creek leads to terraced pools perched above the Lochsa River, framed by cedar forest and mist.
Kirkham Hot Springs
Lowman, ID
Dozens of thermal cascades pour over travertine ledges into the South Fork of the Payette River, creating adjustable rock tubs within a five-minute walk of the campground. Picnic tables and vault toilets make it one of Idaho's most accessible roadside springs.
Editor’s picks nearby
- Jerry Johnson Hot Springs — the iconic three-pool wild soak on US-12, 1.5-mile hike across the Lochsa swinging bridge — closed Dec 1–May 1 for elk winter range.
- Kirkham Hot Springs — the drive-up Highway 21 favorite along the South Fork Payette — multiple terraced pools.
- Goldbug Hot Springs — the Salmon River corridor classic — 2-mile uphill hike to terraced creekside pools above US-93.