Jerry Johnson Hot Springs is one of the most popular natural hot springs in north-central Idaho. Tucked inside the dense cedar and pine forests of the Clearwater National Forest, the springs sit just above the beautiful Lochsa River, close to the Idaho–Montana border. The area features several naturally formed pools of varying temperatures along Warm Springs Creek, offering a peaceful, wilderness-rich soaking experience without any development or facilities — just pure Idaho nature.
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What You Should Know Before Going to Jerry Johnson Hot Springs
Jerry Johnson Hot Springs is a natural, undeveloped soaking area hidden deep in the forest of north-central Idaho. There are no facilities, no services and no built features — just forest, river and warm water emerging unexpectedly in the middle of rugged wilderness. A short trail along Warm Springs Creek leads you to several clusters of pools that feel both remote and welcoming.
The upper pools usually reach 100–110 °F (38–43 °C), while those closer to the creek tend to be cooler as they mix with the flowing mountain water. These springs form three main groups of pools, each with its own shape and atmosphere. Some are tucked into rocks and cedar roots, while others face the river valley. Because the springs are entirely natural, their size and temperature change seasonally — in spring some may be underwater, but in summer and fall they typically offer wonderfully warm soaking.
The area feels peaceful and genuinely wild. Sitting in the warm water with steam rising through the trees often feels like discovering a hidden pocket of the forest. But it’s essential to remember that this is true wilderness. Moose and bears are commonly seen in the area, and visitors must be fully self-sufficient, packing out everything they bring. There are no restrooms, no trash bins and no amenities of any kind.
Jerry Johnson Hot Springs is perfect for travelers seeking a quiet, natural soaking experience far from crowds or development. If you love warm pools surrounded by forest and the feeling of being far from the world, you’ll find exactly what makes Idaho’s hot springs so special.
How to Get to Jerry Johnson Hot Springs
Jerry Johnson Hot Springs is located about 77,8 miles east of Kooskia, along the scenic US-12 corridor that follows the rushing waters of the Lochsa River. The drive itself is a classic Idaho experience — dense forest, steep canyon walls and long stretches where you see nothing but river and trees.
From the roadside parking area at Warm Springs Trailhead, a 1.4-mile one-way trail leads to the springs. It’s an easy, peaceful walk through cedar forest, crossing wooden footbridges and winding along the edge of Warm Springs Creek. The trail is well-traveled and accessible to most visitors, though after rain it can become slippery, and during spring runoff some sections may be wet.
As you move deeper into the forest, the sound of the creek grows louder, and before long the first warm vents appear among the rocks. It’s a short approach, but one that feels like an introduction to Idaho’s wild, quiet interior — a reminder that some of the best places are just a gentle hike away from the road.
Best Time to Visit Jerry Johnson Hot Springs
Jerry Johnson Hot Springs can be visited year-round, but late spring through fall tends to offer the most comfortable experience. In summer, the upper pools stay warm and inviting, surrounded by the scent of cedar and the soft sound of Warm Springs Creek — the perfect backdrop for a quiet soak.
In early spring, melting snow raises the creek level, and some pools can become submerged or significantly cooled, making conditions unpredictable. Late May to early June is the most changeable period, when the springs often shift in shape and temperature.
Autumn brings peaceful, colorful scenery as the forest turns gold and the air grows crisp. The contrast between cool mountain air and warm water makes fall one of the most rewarding times to visit.
Winter transforms the area into a quiet, snow-covered world. The pools remain warm, but the trail can be icy, temperatures can drop dramatically and daylight is limited. Still, many visitors say that soaking with steam rising into the snowy forest feels almost unreal — one of Idaho’s most magical hot spring moments.
Opening Hours and Entry Costs
Jerry Johnson Hot Springs is located within the Clearwater National Forest and is officially designated as a day-use only site. This means the area is open from 6 AM to 8 PM, helping protect the natural environment and ensuring visitor safety. Access is completely free, with no fees, reservations or permits required.
Because the springs are entirely undeveloped, there are no restrooms, trash facilities or staff on-site. Visitors must pack out everything they bring and respect Leave No Trace principles. Seasonal conditions can affect access — spring runoff may submerge parts of the trail, while winter often brings icy paths — but throughout the year, the springs remain accessible during their designated daylight hours.
Where to Stay Nearby Jerry Johnson Hot Springs
Jerry Johnson Hot Springs sits deep in the Idaho wilderness, and there are no cabins, shelters or facilities near the pools. Camping is possible, but only away from the soaking areas, in discreet forest spots, and visitors must be fully self-sufficient. There are no restrooms, trash bins or services — everything you bring must be packed out.
For comfort before or after your visit, the closest towns are Kooskia and Orofino.
Kooskia is a quiet, rural community surrounded by forested hills and the Clearwater River. It has a cozy, small-town atmosphere and only a handful of accommodations, but it’s the closest real place to stay and resupply before heading toward US-12 and the trailhead.
Orofino is larger, with more restaurants, services and hotels. Sitting directly along the Clearwater River, it feels peaceful and scenic, making it a great base for travelers who want comfort without losing the charm of Idaho’s wilderness towns.
Recommended Stays nearby
Helgeson Place Hotel & Suites – Orofino
Helgeson Place Hotel & Suites is a quiet and comfortable property located right in the heart of Orofino, just steps from the Clearwater River. The hotel offers large, clean and cozy suites with a home-like atmosphere, making it a solid choice for travelers heading toward Jerry Johnson Hot Springs. Rooms come with kitchenettes, comfortable beds and plenty of space to relax after a full day on the road.
Best Western Lodge at River’s Edge – Orofino
A highly rated riverside hotel offering spacious rooms, warm breakfasts and a calm, welcoming atmosphere. The property features a heated indoor pool, hot tub, and beautiful views of the Clearwater River. Guests praise the friendly staff, easy parking and quiet environment — making it the perfect place to rest before heading into the forest for Jerry Johnson Hot Springs.
You can explore and book more nearby stays directly through the interactive map below:
What to Do Nearby Jerry Johnson Hot Springs
The main reason to visit Jerry Johnson Hot Springs is the chance to soak in the natural warm pools surrounded by dense cedar forest and the sound of rushing water. The upper pools overlook the trees, and sitting in the warm water while Warm Springs Creek flows below creates a peaceful, almost surreal atmosphere. After soaking, you can follow the creek farther into the woods — the trail continues gently through the forest and offers beautiful viewpoints of the canyon and the meandering Lochsa River.
The area is also a favorite for photographers. In the early morning, steam rising over the pools mixes with soft forest light to create scenes that feel uniquely Idaho. Many visitors come in winter as well, when the trail becomes quiet, snow lines the forest floor and the contrast of hot water and cold air makes the springs especially magical.
The US-12 corridor offers even more places to explore. The Lochsa River is one of the most pristine wild rivers in north-central Idaho, perfect for nature watching, peaceful walks and enjoying the river scenery. If you’re looking for a longer outing, continue toward Lolo Pass, where the Bitterroot Mountains rise into dramatic ridgelines.
Other Hot Springs Nearby Jerry Johnson Hot Springs
If you’d like to explore more hot springs in north-central Idaho, don’t miss Weir Creek Hot Springs, just a few minutes east along US-12, offering beautifully warm pools perched above the creek. For a more remote wilderness hike, head to Stanley Hot Springs, hidden deep in the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness. And if you prefer a slightly more comfortable forest retreat, Red River Hot Springs near Elk City offers lodge-style soaking surrounded by quiet mountain scenery — each destination showing a different and equally captivating side of Idaho’s geothermal landscape.