Quick FactsOverview
About Red River Hot Springs
Red River Hot Springs, Idaho is a rustic geothermal resort in the Clearwater-Nez Perce National Forest in Idaho County, 23 miles east of the small community of Elk City along the Red River at approximately 5,000 feet elevation. Source water at 135 degrees Fahrenheit feeds a large outdoor swimming pool maintained at roughly 95 degrees and two wooden soaking tubs at 100 to 108 degrees, with no chemical treatment. A round ceramic pool offers a cooler option. Elk City, a historic mining and logging town, is the nearest community.
The Nez Perce people used these springs for centuries before European settlement. In the early 1900s, the Meinert family established the site as a health retreat with a lodge and cabins. Today the resort operates year-round with four lodge rooms, three cottages, tent camping, three RV sites, and an on-site cafe. The 32-by-28-foot main pool ranges from 4 to 9 feet deep with a high flow rate of natural mineral water. Algae can grow in the untreated water, which is a sign of the natural, chemical-free environment.
The drive along the gravel Red River Road through the national forest is scenic and remote, winding through dense conifer forest alongside the Red River.
Location & Access
Getting to Red River Hot Springs
Red River Hot Springs is located at 3827 Red River Road, 23 miles east of Elk City in the Clearwater-Nez Perce National Forest. The resort is accessible by car with no hiking required. The road is gravel and can be rough in places.
From Grangeville, drive east on Idaho Highway 14 for approximately 75 miles (about 2 hours) through the Clearwater Mountains to Elk City, then continue east on Red River Road. The road is passable by standard vehicles in dry summer conditions, though a vehicle with good clearance is helpful. Winter access can be challenging due to snow. Call the resort at 541-300-6182 to confirm road conditions and seasonal closures before driving in winter months.
Hours and Reservations
The resort is open Thursday through Monday, closed Tuesday and Wednesday. Summer hours (May through October) are 10am to 10pm Monday through Saturday and 10am to 8pm Sunday. Winter hours are shorter. For visitors seeking hot springs near Elk City, Red River is the only developed geothermal resort in the area. The Clearwater-Nez Perce National Forest offers extensive backcountry recreation including hiking, fishing, and hunting in the surrounding mountains and river valleys.
Suitability & Accessibility
Who Should Visit Red River Hot Springs
Red River Hot Springs suits visitors seeking a remote, rustic resort experience in the Idaho backcountry. The combination of a large swimming pool at 95 degrees and soaking tubs at 100 to 108 degrees accommodates both swimmers and soakers. The family-friendly resort welcomes all ages. Pets are allowed with a cleaning fee, on leash, though not in the pool area.
The 75-mile drive from Grangeville through the mountains is part of the experience. The resort offers lodging (lodge rooms, cottages) and camping for overnight stays, making it a destination rather than a quick stop. The on-site cafe provides food and drinks. Registered overnight guests enjoy pool access from 7am to 10pm.
Accessibility at Red River Hot Springs
Contact the resort for specific accessibility information regarding pool entry and lodging. The resort grounds are on relatively flat terrain. Those seeking a hot spring resort Idaho offers in the north-central mountains will find Red River to be one of the most remote and authentic options, combining natural geothermal water with genuine backcountry hospitality in a setting that has changed little since the Meinert family first welcomed guests over a century ago. The surrounding Clearwater-Nez Perce National Forest offers extensive hiking, fishing, hunting, and wildlife viewing.
Safety & Etiquette
Red River Hot Springs Safety Tips
Red River Hot Springs is a managed resort and is generally safe for all visitors. The swimming pool at 95 degrees and soaking tubs at 100 to 108 degrees are at comfortable temperatures. Supervise children at all times, as the pool reaches 9 feet deep. The natural mineral water is untreated. Algae may be present, which is harmless but indicates the natural chemical-free condition of the water.
Swimsuits are mandatory. No glass is allowed in the pool area (state fine of $350). No soap or shampoo should be used in the pool. Follow all posted resort rules and staff instructions.
Road and Travel Safety
The 75-mile drive from Grangeville is on gravel roads through remote national forest. Winter conditions can make the road impassable. Call ahead to check conditions. Carry extra fuel, water, and emergency supplies. Cell service is very limited along Red River Road. The nearest medical facilities are in Grangeville, approximately 2 hours west.
Wildlife Awareness
The Clearwater-Nez Perce National Forest is home to black bears, mountain lions, elk, and moose. Keep pets on leash and store food properly. The forest setting is beautiful but remote, and wildlife encounters are possible especially at dawn and dusk. The forest road to the resort crosses several creek drainages that may flood during spring runoff. The resort phone number (541-300-6182) should be called before any winter or spring visit to confirm access and current road and weather conditions.
