Bowery Hot Springs
Seasonal
Snowbound road in winter; no published season datesOpen seasons
- Access
- Roadside, seasonal high-elevation road
- Accommodations
- Primitive sites near the springs; campgrounds along the main road
Bowery Hot Springs is one of Idaho’s most unusual soaks: the “pool” is an old fiberglass spa set beside the East Fork of the Salmon River near Clayton, at 6,800 feet elevation. The water is clear with a strong sulfur odor, and you control the temperature yourself.
Pool Condition
The pool is an old fiberglass spa — apparently a second-generation unit that doesn’t have much life left in it.
Seasonal Notes
Access is by a high-elevation seasonal road that is snowbound in winter; no official opening or closing dates are published, so plan on a snow-free-season visit and check current conditions before you go.
Camping
There are a few primitive sites near the springs (not very private), plus many official campgrounds and primitive sites along the main road, close to Clayton.
Bowery Hot Springs Soak Stats
- Access Type: Roadside
- Public Land: Sawtooth National Forest
- Elevation: 6,800 ft
- GPS: 43.974, -114.499
- Water Temperature: Adjustable
- Water Clarity: Clear
- Visibility: Low-moderate
- Odor(s): Strong sulfur
- Nearest Town: Clayton (East Fork Salmon River)
- Wildlife: Deer, badgers
- Usage Level: Low
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the pool like?
There is no natural pool. The soak is a single aging fiberglass spa beside the river, and the listing warns it does not have much life left in it.
What does it cost?
The listing publishes no fee, and no official source states one, so treat the cost as not verified.
How hot is the water?
You set the temperature yourself. The water is clear, with a strong sulfur odor.
When is it open?
Plan on the snow-free season. At 6,800 feet the seasonal road is snowbound in winter, and no official opening or closing dates are published.
How busy is it?
Rarely busy at all. Use is low, and the listing notes you will usually have the place to yourself.
Can I camp nearby?
Yes, with a few primitive sites near the springs that are not very private, plus official campgrounds and more primitive sites along the main road.
Discover more from IdahoHotSprings.com
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Join the Community on Facebook
Stay updated on seasonal road closures, wildfire impacts, soaking conditions and community preservation efforts across Idaho.
Follow Idaho Hot Springs on Facebook
