Krigbaum Hot Springs
Krigbaum Hot Springs emerges at 109 degrees Fahrenheit along the Goose Creek drainage in the Payette National Forest, offering a comfortable soaking temperature without needing to mix in cold water. This backcountry spring near McCall sits at 4,280 feet in a forested mountain setting that receives nearly 12 feet of snow each winter.
The spring surfaces in a timbered draw where lodgepole pine and spruce crowd the creek banks. Water pools naturally among rocks and fallen timber, and the surrounding forest muffles sound to the point where the only noise is moving water and wind through the canopy. At 43 degrees average annual air temperature, the contrast between cold mountain air and the warm mineral water creates visible steam across the pool surface through much of the year.
The water chemistry shows a pH of 9.2 with elevated sodium at 130 milligrams per liter and sulfate at 180 milligrams per liter, reflecting deep circulation through the granitic bedrock of the Idaho Batholith. USGS measurements confirm consistent 43-degree Celsius output. The Payette National Forest manages this spring as part of the broader network of geothermal features scattered across west-central Idaho's backcountry.
Access is via Goose Creek Road with a short walk of about 110 meters from the road to the spring. The nearest developed campground is Grouse Campground, roughly 11 miles away on the shores of Goose Lake, which is reservable through Recreation.gov. Bring supplies, as services in this area are limited. McCall, about 16 miles away, is the closest town for provisions.
Is Krigbaum Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Overnight camping trips
The water at Krigbaum Hot Springs is alkaline (pH 9.2).
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Overview Grouse Campground is located just 16 miles from McCall, Idaho, on the shores of Goose Lake. Visitors enjoy canoeing, fishing and horseback riding. Once on-site, you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature. If this option is available, you will need to first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your arrival as some remote areas have limited or...