Southwest Idaho has several hot springs that range from fully modern facilities resembling a suburban swim club ... and then there's the more rustic variety. Burgdorf Hot Springs certainly falls into the later but it is one of the coolest hot springs experiences that I've seen in my travels!
Burgdorf Hot Springs is nestled in the mountains about an hour drive north of McCall Idaho. It is also an honest to god ghost town and guests can come just for the day or spend the night enjoying the mountain air and stunningly clear skies nearly devoid of any light pollution. Unfortunately for us, we were only able to spend a short time exploring the springs but I dream of one day returning so that we can just gaze up at the stars while relaxing in the mineral hot springs.
Most of the road to Burgdorf Hot Springs from McCall is well maintained and paved by the forest service. However, the last mile and a half (once you turn off of Warren Wagon Rd / NF-21 and on to Burgdorf Rd / NF-246) is loose gravel. At the time we visited, it was in good condition as long as you go slow, so you should have no problem reaching the springs in most vehicles as long as weather is good.
What First-Timers Get Wrong About Booking a Boutique Hotel in Tel Aviv
First-timer guide to booking a boutique hotel in Tel Aviv for a guys trip - how to spot real boutique properties, pick the right neighborhood, and avoid the beachfront premium trap.
Lucky Catch Cruises: Authentic Lobster Boat Experience Perfect For a Maine Guys Trip
Experience authentic lobstering in Portland with real traps, conservation lessons, and hands-on immersion. Perfect cruise excursion combining Maine's lobster culture with premium Casco Bay scenery.
14 Day Classic Highlights of Vietnam and Thailand
A 14 day tour of Vietnam and Thailand with hand-picked accommodations, 24/7 support, and local cultural experiences for comfort-focused travelers.
6 Days 5 Nights Northern Vietnam Tour
6 day Northern Vietnam tour with hidden gems, local cuisine and passionate guides. Ideal for curious travelers seeking more than the typical tourist route.
Promoted by FlowAds
While the springs are open year-round, it is only accessible by car during the spring, summer, and early fall. When snow falls, the roads are closed to all but tracked vehicles such as snowmobiles.
Let's define "rustic" ... there are no toilets or plumbing. These are the official bathroom facilities and they are outhouses, not porta-johns disguised as outhouses but honest to god outhouses. If having to rely on antibacterial hand-wash vs a faucet of running hot and cold water with soap available is going to bother you, then this isn't your type of place.
Man Gear Pick of the Month
Kenyon City Grill Portable Stainless Steel Electric Grill
Why we picked it: a grill you can actually carry to the campsite, the tailgate or the cabin without borrowing a truck. Stainless, no propane tank to wrestle, and hot enough to cook for four guys rather than reheat for one.
August's Pick LiberNovo Maxis Electric Big and Tall Ergonomic Office Chair, Graphite 52cm $1,466.00 
July's Pick Powerful Propane Torch Gun, Adjustable Flame Thrower Gun, Kitchen Torch with Detachable Design, Flamethrower Blow Torch for BBQ, Searing Steak, Welding, Camping Charcoal Lighter(Tank Not Included) $41.99 
June's Pick OYASUMI Funny BBQ Man Hot Dog Holders, 4 PCS Reusable Stainless Steel Sausage Stands, Portable Hot Dog Roasters, Barbecue Grill Accessories for Camping & Party Gifts $14.98 Promoted by FlowAds
For the rest of us willing to take a step back in time and appreciate the rest of the experience, you are about to enjoy something amazing.
The centerpiece of the town is obviously the hot springs, which maintains a temperature of about 100 degrees year round. However there are also two small pools near the inlet that average about 113 degrees. Day swim rates are $8 per person and they also offer swimsuit and towel rentals. Hours for day guests are 10 am - 8 pm. However, overnight guests have unlimited access to the pool.
There is literally NOTHING within an hour of Burgdorf, so I would recommend taking that into consideration before you head up the mountain and bring snacks and plenty of fuel. For those of you who want a real meal though, Burgdorf Cafe offers pizza as well as burritos, brats and breakfast sandwhiches. They also sell gas at a "all things considered" reasonable price.
The experience here is something special. For me anyhow, there is a sense of excitement to leave the confines of the city and set out to explore the desolation of nature. However, when you find similar souls that have escaped the "every day" to gather around something amazing it has a tendency to create instant friendships. That's the feeling I got here as people floated and soaked in the mineral rich water while breathing in fresh mountain air without even the faintest hint of any pollutants.
While spending a few hours soaking in the spring is probably enough for most people, you can also spend the night in one of their cabins. Again, these are rustic, but it sort of completes the experience since you can fully relax instead of worrying about toweling off and then driving back down the mountain. There is no beer or wine sold at the cafe but guests are welcome to bring their own adult beverages though no glass or other breakable containers are permitted in the pool area.
Rates for the cabins are $40 per person and they have several different options available. Kitchen facilities are non-existent but most cabins have a porch that is suitable for setting up a camp-stove.
Promoted by FlowAds
