Zims Resort Hot Springs
Zims Resort Hot Springs delivers 144°F water virtually at roadside, sitting just 17 feet from Zims Road in Valley County, Idaho, near McCall. USGS measurements confirm 64°C, and the highly alkaline water (pH 9.4) carries elevated sodium at 180 mg/L and sulfate at 320 mg/L, with minimal calcium and magnesium.
At 3,825 feet in the mountains west of McCall, the spring occupies a forested canyon in central Idaho's backcountry. The area receives substantial precipitation — 37 inches of rain and nearly 150 inches of snow annually — supporting dense conifer forests of Douglas fir and ponderosa pine. The South Fork of the Salmon River drainage shapes the surrounding topography, with steep timbered ridgelines rising on either side of the narrow valley.
The spring's name references a former resort operation that historically channeled the thermal water for guest use. McCall and the surrounding Long Valley have drawn visitors since the early 1900s for timber, ranching, and recreation. Detailed records of the resort's founding and closure dates are not readily available. The spring itself remains accessible along the road that bears its name.
The McCall area offers year-round recreation, but deep snow limits backcountry road access from late fall through spring. Water at 144°F requires cooling before any contact. Grouse Campground on Goose Lake, about 10 km away, is reservable through Recreation.gov and serves as a base for fishing, canoeing, and horseback riding. Carry bear spray and store food properly in this wildlife-rich corridor.
Is Zims Resort Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Observing powerful hot springs
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
- Casual soaking
The water at Zims Resort Hot Springs is alkaline (pH 9.4). It is notably rich in sulfate (traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation).
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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...