River-side dispersed camping with natural hot springs steps from your tailgate.
Drive the Salmon River from Stanley north and you'll pass a dozen free riverside pullouts and several natural hot springs that flow into the river. Boondocking next to a wild river and walking 50 feet to soak under stars is the Idaho experience.
Why it's special
Free riverside camping with a natural hot springs steps away. It's the kind of place that ruins you for paid campgrounds.
Best time to go
Late June through September.
Getting there
ID-75 north out of Stanley toward Challis.
Know before you go
- Pullouts fill on weekends; midweek is empty.
- Pack out everything including hot springs trash — these places die when abused.
- No services for long stretches; top off in Stanley or Challis.
- Cell service is essentially nonexistent.
Pro tips from boondockers
- Sunbeam Hot Springs, Kem Hot Springs, and Boat Box are river-side and free.
- Boat Box is a single soaker — bring your patience.
- Watch for rafters launching; the river is a recreation highway in July.
- Drive slow — wildlife and rafters everywhere.
Combine with
Sawtooths, Salmon, Frank Church Wilderness.