Gold Fork Hot Springs - Image 1
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Gold Fork Hot Springs Idaho

3.6
·1k reviews·Donnelly, United States

Discover serene, mineral-rich pools nestled in a pine forest. A tranquil escape with varying temperatures for ultimate relaxation.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxation

CrowdLow
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Gold Fork Hot Springs - Image 1

Gold Fork Hot Springs Idaho

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxation

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover serene, mineral-rich pools nestled in a pine forest. A tranquil escape with varying temperatures for ultimate relaxation.

3.6
(1k reviews)

"ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL!! Tucked a ways back and very serene. Marvelously kept with amazing water."

Vertical photo
TIP

💰 Cash Only Entry

Bring $15 cash per person for entry. No cards accepted!

🤫 Quiet Zone

This is a place for relaxation, not splashing. Keep voices low.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mineral-Rich Hot Pools

Mineral-Rich Hot Pools

Various pools on site

Immerse yourself in naturally heated waters with varying temperatures, offering a deeply relaxing experience.

Sand-Bottomed Cool Pool

Sand-Bottomed Cool Pool

One of the cooler pools

A unique and delightful feature, this pool offers a natural, sandy floor for a distinct soaking sensation.

Serene Forest Setting

Serene Forest Setting

Surrounding grounds

Nestled amidst pine trees, the natural beauty enhances the tranquil and secluded atmosphere of the springs.

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Planning Your Visit

Cash is King at Gold Fork

Gold Fork Hot Springs operates on a cash-only basis for its $15 per person entrance fee. Be sure to bring enough cash to avoid any issues upon arrival. Planning your visit around specific days can also enhance your experience, as certain days have restrictions on children.

Know the Rules Before You Go

Gold Fork Hot Springs has specific rules regarding children and group sizes. It's a place for quiet relaxation, not boisterous play. Check their operating days and hours, as they are closed on Tuesdays and have specific times for children. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxation
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon/early evening
Why
Golden hour glow
Crowd
Medium
When
Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday (12 PM - 4 PM)
Why
Family-friendly hours
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Help planning a McCall trip?

💰 Cash Only Entry

Bring $15 cash per person for entry. No cards accepted! Reddit

🤫 Quiet Zone

This is a place for relaxation, not splashing. Keep voices low. Reddit

reddit.com

McCall visit - September

⏰ Check Kid Hours

No kids on Thursdays, and under 13s after 4 PM. Reddit

🚗 Bumpy Road Ahead

The drive can be rough, so drive carefully. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

💰 Cash Only Entry

Bring $15 cash per person for entry. No cards accepted! Reddit

🤫 Quiet Zone

This is a place for relaxation, not splashing. Keep voices low. Reddit

⏰ Check Kid Hours

No kids on Thursdays, and under 13s after 4 PM. Reddit

🚗 Bumpy Road Ahead

The drive can be rough, so drive carefully. Reddit

👙 Pack Accordingly

Bring your swimsuit, towel, and a change of clothes. Reddit

What Travellers Say

3.6
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the serene beauty and wonderfully kept facilities at Gold Fork Hot Springs, praising the mineral-rich waters and varied pool temperatures. The clean restrooms and friendly staff enhance the relaxing, spa-like atmosphere. However, some find the drive challenging and information about specific rules, especially regarding children and payment, can be difficult to find beforehand.

"ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL!! Tucked a ways back and very serene. Marvelously kept with amazing water. Different levels of heat in the pools. My fiance and I went on a spontaneous camping trip and found this hidden gem. The restrooms were EXTREMELY well kept and clean. The woman at the counter was so sweet and made the whole experience even better."

Shae Williams

"Great, relaxing spot!
Entrance is $15 per person (cash or check only). There’s one changing room for women, one for men, and two outdoor restrooms.

The facility offers both hot and cool pools. There are two hot springs—one larger pool at about 105°F and a smaller, even hotter one. The water doesn’t have a strong “hot spring” smell, but it feels very soft and pleasant.

There are also about three cooler pools, one of which has a sand bottom—such a unique touch!"

Veronika Parr

"Absolutely stunning springs! Clean, relaxing and beautiful! The lady at the front was super sweet too! Prices increase to $15/person starting 8/1/2025! (Go closer to the end of the day…you won’t be disappointed!)"

Brandy Sears

What People Like

Beautiful and serene setting
Clean facilities
Mineral-rich waters

What People Dislike

Bumpy drive
Cash only payment
Confusing rules

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Gold Fork Hot Springs is located near Donnelly, Idaho. The drive involves some unpaved and potentially bumpy roads, so it's recommended to drive carefully. Many visitors report it's a 'bumpy long drive' but worth it. Reddit

While the drive can be a bit challenging, following directions carefully will lead you there. Some visitors found it hard to find specific information online beforehand, so planning is key. Reddit

The closest town is Donnelly, Idaho. This makes it a popular destination for those visiting the Donnelly area or looking for hot springs in Donnelly, Idaho. Reddit

Yes, Gold Fork Hot Springs is accessible from McCall, Idaho, though it's a drive. It's often mentioned in discussions about attractions near McCall. Reddit

The roads leading to Gold Fork Hot Springs can be rough and bumpy. It's advisable to have a vehicle that can handle varied terrain and to drive cautiously. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee is $15 per person. It's important to note that this is a cash-only establishment, so be sure to bring enough cash with you. Reddit

Previously, reservations were taken, but now it's first-come, first-served. Arriving earlier in the day or on weekdays can help secure your spot. Reddit

Gold Fork Hot Springs is open every day except Tuesday. Hours can vary, and it's best to check for any specific seasonal or daily changes. Reddit

Yes, there are specific rules for children. Kids are not allowed on Thursdays, and children under 13 are not permitted after 4 PM. Reddit

Gold Fork Hot Springs accepts cash or check only. Credit cards are not accepted, so ensure you have the necessary cash for admission. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The facility offers changing tents, benches, and outdoor restrooms (porta-potties with hand sanitizer). There are no showers available. Reddit

Yes, there are multiple pools with varying temperatures. One larger pool is around 105°F, and there's a smaller, even hotter one, alongside several cooler pools. Reddit

While there are specific hours for children, the springs are more geared towards quiet relaxation. If you're looking for a place for kids to play and splash, other options might be better. Reddit

The atmosphere is described as serene, beautiful, and relaxing, with a spa-like feel. It's a place to unwind and enjoy the natural surroundings. Reddit

While not explicitly stated in reviews, it's generally advisable to check with the facility directly or bring only non-alcoholic beverages and snacks that won't disturb the peaceful environment. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The natural scenery, the steaming pools against the forest backdrop, and the unique sand-bottomed pool offer great photo opportunities. Capturing the serene atmosphere is key. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed, but it's important to be respectful of other visitors' privacy and the tranquil environment. Avoid intrusive photography. Reddit

Late afternoon or early evening, during the 'golden hour,' can provide beautiful lighting for photos. Early mornings can also be serene and less crowded. Reddit

There are no specific mentions of drone usage in reviews. It's always best to check with the facility management regarding drone policies to avoid any issues. Reddit

Focus on the natural beauty, the steam rising from the water, and the peaceful ambiance. Shots that highlight the 'hidden gem' aspect are often very effective. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Gold Fork Hot Springs offers a unique experience for families, but it's important to be aware of their specific rules. While children are welcome on most days, Thursdays are strictly adult-only, and after 4 PM, those under 13 are not permitted. The springs are intended for quiet relaxation, so if your children enjoy active water play, this might not be the ideal spot. Reddit

However, for families seeking a tranquil soak, the cooler pools and the sand-bottomed pool can be enjoyable. The facility provides changing tents and restrooms, but there are no showers or baby-changing tables. Planning your visit during the designated family-friendly hours (typically 12 PM to 4 PM on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) will ensure a more suitable experience. Reddit

🧘‍♀️ Couples Seeking Relaxation

Gold Fork Hot Springs is an ideal destination for couples looking for a serene and romantic getaway. The natural setting amidst pine forests creates a tranquil ambiance, perfect for unwinding together. The varying temperatures of the mineral-rich pools allow for a customizable and deeply relaxing experience. Reddit

Visiting during weekday afternoons or later in the day can offer a more intimate experience with fewer crowds. The 'spa-like feel' and the soft, pleasant water contribute to a rejuvenating escape. Remember to bring cash for the entrance fee and be prepared for a peaceful, quiet environment. Reddit

🚗 Day-Trippers from Boise

For those in Boise looking for a scenic day trip, Gold Fork Hot Springs is a worthwhile destination. The drive, though potentially bumpy, offers beautiful Idaho landscapes. It's a perfect opportunity to escape the city and immerse yourself in nature and relaxation. Reddit

Plan your trip to arrive by midday to maximize your soaking time. Ensure you have enough cash for the $15 per person entrance fee and pack essentials like towels and swimsuits. The drive back to Boise in the evening can be quite pleasant after a day of soaking. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding the Waters and Pools

Gold Fork Hot Springs boasts naturally heated mineral waters that are renowned for their softness and pleasant feel on the skin. Unlike some hot springs, the water here doesn't carry a strong sulfurous odor, making the soaking experience more enjoyable for many. The facility offers a variety of pools, catering to different preferences for heat. There's a larger main pool typically around 105°F, and a smaller, even hotter option for those seeking intense warmth. Reddit

Beyond the hot pools, Gold Fork also features several cooler pools, providing a refreshing contrast. One of the most unique aspects is a cooler pool with a sand bottom, offering a distinct and natural tactile experience. This variety ensures visitors can find their ideal comfort level and enjoy a diverse soaking experience amidst the natural beauty. Reddit

Navigating Your Visit: Rules and Etiquette

To ensure a peaceful and enjoyable experience for all, Gold Fork Hot Springs has specific rules and etiquette. The primary rule is to maintain a quiet atmosphere; it's a place for relaxation, not for loud play or splashing. This is particularly important for families with children, as the springs are not designed as a public swimming hole for boisterous activities. Reddit

There are also specific hours for children. Thursdays are adult-only days, and after 4 PM on other days, children under 13 are not permitted. This policy helps maintain the serene environment for adult visitors. It's also crucial to remember that the facility operates on a cash-only basis for its $15 per person entrance fee, so be prepared with the exact amount. Reddit

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