Zims Hot Springs

Zims Hot Springs, Idaho | Nez Perce-Operated Mineral Soak in New Meadows’ Meadows Valley

Nestled along the Little Salmon River in the scenic Meadows Valley, Zims Hot Springs is a rustic, family-friendly retreat just 5 miles north of New Meadows and 30 miles from McCall, Idaho. Operated by the Nez Perce Tribe, this geothermal gem in the Payette National Forest offers mineral-rich pools with cultural significance, RV camping, and a welcoming vibe for adventurers and families seeking relaxation amid Idaho’s stunning wilderness.

Key Features & Highlights

• Mineral-Rich Pools: Soak in a hot pool (100°F–105°F) or swim in a larger, cooler pool (90°F–100°F), fed by a 110°F artesian well, cooled by the Little Salmon River, and treated with chlorine for cleanliness.

• Nez Perce Heritage: Operated by the Nez Perce Tribe, the springs, once called Chinook Meadows, hold spiritual, cultural, and medicinal value, historically used to craft bighorn sheep horn bows.

• RV & Tent Camping: Choose from 12 RV spots with water and electric hookups ($25/night) or no-host tent sites ($10/night), with pool access included for overnight guests.

• Family-Friendly Amenities: Enjoy a snack bar, arcade games, picnic area, restrooms, changing rooms, and handicap access, perfect for all ages.

• Scenic Valley Views: Relax with vistas of Payette National Forest’s mountains and forests, ideal for post-soak lounging.

Activities & Tips

• Outdoor Adventures: Hike or bike the Rapid River or Goose Creek Falls trails, fish for trout in nearby rivers, or ski at Brundage Mountain Resort (30 minutes south).

• Winter Bliss: Soak amidst snowflakes for a magical contrast, with snowshoeing or snowmobiling nearby in Payette National Forest.

• Family Fun: Bring kids for the cooler pool or arcade games; live music events on select evenings add a festive touch.

• Avoid Crowds: Visit midweek or early afternoons (Wed–Fri 1–3 PM for season pass holders) to beat the weekend rush (max 35 people).

• Hot Springs Circuit: Pair with Tibbs Family Hot Springs (15 minutes away) or Burgdorf Hot Springs (45 minutes north) for a regional soak tour.

Pro Tips for Your Visit

• Pack Smart: Bring swimsuits, towels, and water shoes (pools may have natural algae). Rentals for suits, towels, and storage bins are unavailable; swim diapers sold on-site.

• Pet Policy: Leashed pets allowed in camping areas only, not in pools or lodge.

• Sustainability: Preserve the mineral water—avoid soaps, oils, or littering. Pools are cleaned regularly but may have natural organic material.

• Reservations: Day use is first-come, first-serve or by reservation; book RV/camp spots online via zimshotsprings.com.

• Clothing Required: Swimsuits mandatory in pools; respect the family-oriented vibe.

Important Notes

• Admission: $10 adults, $8 seniors, $6 kids (3–17). Season passes and group rates available. Check zimshotsprings.com for updates.

• Hours: Wed–Fri 3 PM–8 PM, Sat–Sun 1 PM–8 PM, closed Mon–Tue. Season pass holders: Wed–Fri 1 PM–3 PM, Sat–Sun 12 PM–1 PM. Winter road conditions may affect access—check Idaho Transportation Department updates.

• Rules: No alcohol in pools, respect occupancy limits (35 max), and maintain a quiet, family-friendly atmosphere.

What Makes Zims Unforgettable

Zims Hot Springs is more than a soak—it’s a cultural and natural haven. The Nez Perce Tribe’s stewardship infuses this rustic retreat with deep heritage, where mineral-rich waters at 100°F–105°F ease your body while the Little Salmon River flows nearby. With two pools, RV camping, and a cozy lodge with arcade games, it’s a family-friendly escape in Idaho’s Meadows Valley, blending healing waters with the wild beauty of Payette National Forest.

Plan Your Visit

Location: 2995 Zims Rd, New Meadows, ID 83654 (from New Meadows, take Hwy 95 north 4 miles, turn left on Circle C Ln/Zims Rd, follow signs 0.8 miles).
Contact: Visit zimshotsprings.com or check @ZimsNPTE on Facebook for reservations and updates.