Kirkham Hot Springs is one of Idaho's most beloved riverside soaks — a series of natural rock pools and steaming hot waterfalls tumbling down to the South Fork of the Payette River, just east of Lowman in the Boise National Forest. Right off Highway 21 and framed by pine-covered canyon walls, it's a postcard-perfect place to soak, with hot mineral water mingling with the cool, rushing river below.

The setting is the magic. Geothermal water trickles and cascades down the rocky bank in a string of soaking pools and little hot waterfalls, so you can pick your perfect temperature — lounge in a warm pool, stand under a steaming cascade, or cool off with a quick dip in the river. A trail with staircases leads down from the parking area to the pools, which sit right at the water's edge.

A few things to know before you go: despite the “Campground” in its longtime name, Kirkham is now a day-use-only site — no overnight camping — open roughly 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., with the gate closing at night. A day-use fee of about $5 per vehicle applies (a Boise National Forest day pass or an interagency pass like the America the Beautiful covers it), and there are vault toilets and changing rooms on site.

The pools are a year-round delight — a steamy soak in the falling snow is magical — though spring runoff can raise the river and temporarily submerge the lower pools, so summer through fall and winter are the most reliable. The surrounding area offers whitewater rafting, kayaking, and trout fishing on the South Fork, plus the 35-mile Kirkham Ridge Trail nearby for hikers and bikers.

Bring a swimsuit, water, and a towel, mind your footing on the wet rocks, and pack out everything you bring in. Easy to reach yet stunningly scenic, Kirkham Hot Springs is a quintessential Idaho soak that's well worth pulling over for.