Roaring River Hot Springs
Seasonal
Best late in the season, after runoff dropsOpen seasons
- Access
- Roadside pools at the confluence of the Roaring River and the Middle Fork Boise River
- Accommodations
- No lodging; the corridor road is lined with National Forest campgrounds and primitive sites in both directions
Roaring River Hot Springs — also known as Dutch Frank — is a sprawling geothermal complex where the Roaring River meets the Middle Fork Boise River in the Boise National Forest’s Mountain Home District. Heat emanates from multiple spots along the river, and roadside rock-walled pools appear wherever soakers have dug them. It’s a prospector’s soak: there may or may not be something worthwhile ready when you arrive, but the opportunity is everywhere.
Pool Condition
The pools are typically small and shallow, dug at the river’s edge where hot water meets cold. Sizes, temperatures, and locations change every year — pools need rebuilding after spring runoff and relocating as the river recedes (pools left in place can run too hot). Once you find or build a good one, expect a traditional hot/cold swirling soak: stir the pool to hold an even temperature.
Seasonal Notes
Late season, after runoff and river drop, offers the best odds. Most roads into the Atlanta area close in winter, and the Middle Fork Boise River Road is heavily washboarded year-round. In summer, forest roads off State Highway 21 can shorten the drive.
Camping
Plenty of National Forest campgrounds and primitive sites line the road up and down the corridor.
Roaring River Hot Springs Soak Stats
- Access Type: Roadside
- Public Land: Boise National Forest (Mountain Home District)
- Elevation: 4,120 ft
- Water Temperature: Varies
- Water Clarity: Clear
- Visibility: Moderate
- Odor(s): n/a
- Nearest Town: Atlanta area
- Usage Level: Moderate-low
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it cost to visit?
The listing states no fee for the spring, and no official source publishes one. Not verified.
How hot is the water?
It varies. Pools are dug where hot water meets cold river water, so temperatures differ from pool to pool; stir a pool to hold an even temperature.
Do I need a reservation?
No. This is an undeveloped roadside spring complex on public land, with nothing to book.
When is the best time to visit?
Late season offers the best odds, once runoff is over and the river has dropped. Expect to rebuild pools each year: runoff wrecks them, and they shift as the water recedes.
Will a pool be ready when I arrive?
Maybe not. Pools appear wherever soakers have dug them, and their sizes, temperatures and locations change every year, so finding or building a good one is part of the visit.
Can I camp nearby?
Yes. The corridor road is lined with National Forest campgrounds and primitive sites in both directions from the springs.
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