How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Burgdorf Hot Springs, Idaho

I’ve been going to Burgdorf Hot Springs since I was a teenager, and I consider it a quintessential stop on any Idaho road trip itinerary. Back in high school, my friends and I would drive up there on weekends to soak and explore. Over the years, I’ve experienced Burgdorf in every season—driving in during the summer, snowmobiling through fresh powder in the winter, and staying overnight in the cabins more than once. One of my friends even rented out the entire place for his wedding, which was a pretty unforgettable way to celebrate in the Idaho backcountry.

After all those visits, I’ve figured out what’s worth bringing, when to go, and how to make the most of the two-hour soak time. If you’re planning a trip—whether it’s your first visit or your fifth—this guide has everything you need to know to enjoy Burgdorf at its best.

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Where Is Burgdorf Hot Springs?

Burgdorf is located about 30 miles north of McCall, Idaho. It’s a historic hot springs resort that first opened in the 1870s after miners discovered geothermal water in the area. It still has that rustic, old-school feel—log cabins, outhouses, and no cell service. It’s the kind of place where things slow down in a good way.

Getting there depends on the season:

What to Expect When You Soak

Burgdorf’s hot pools are fed by natural geothermal springs and stay around 100°F year-round. There are two large pools, a smaller shallow one, and two covered tubs that are much hotter—great for a quick soak if you want a more intense temperature.

While the pool area can technically hold up to 200 people, that doesn’t mean it’s a free-for-all. Burgdorf now limits the number of visitors and requires reservations for two-hour soaking sessions. Walk-ins aren’t accepted anymore, which helps keep the atmosphere relaxed and uncrowded.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Soak:

Staying Overnight: What to Know About the Cabins

Burgdorf has 15 rustic log cabins you can rent year-round. I’ve stayed in the cabins a few times now, and while they’re basic, they’re comfortable and a great way to extend your time at the springs—especially because overnight guests get 24-hour access to the pools, even after day-use hours end.

The cabins don’t have electricity or running water, but they do have wood stoves, simple furnishings, and a lot of character. You’ll be within walking distance to the pools, outhouses, and the main office.

Cabin Details:

• Sleep 2–6 people
• Start at $175 per night
• 2-night minimum stay
• No pets allowed
• Book online at burgdorfhotsprings.com or call 208-636-3036

What to Bring for a Cabin Stay:

• Sleeping bags and pillows (mattresses provided)
• Lanterns or headlamps (battery or solar-powered)
• Camp stove + cooking gear
• Food, snacks, and water container (potable water is available on site)
• Towels, swimsuits, and warm clothes
• Trash bags for packing out everything you bring in

Alternative Camping Options

If you don’t want to book a cabin, the forest service Jeanette Campground is right next door and a few minutes walk away. The sites are first-come, first-served and only $10/night. However, you won’t get 24/7 access to Burgdorf as if you were staying in the cabins. If you camp at Jeanette Campground or another one of the nearby spots, you’ll still need to book your soaking timeslot during regular public hours.

For tips on discovering other free or cheap campgrounds in the area, check out my guide to finding free campsites.

Visiting in the Summer

In summer, the drive in via Warren Wagon Road is easy and scenic. It’s a great time to pair a soak with hiking or camping.

Nearby Activities in Summer:

• Loon Lake Loop (12 miles): One of my favorite local hikes—moderate, with great forest and lake views
• Mountain biking and gravel riding
• Fishing in nearby streams
• Wildlife spotting (I’ve seen deer right outside the cabins at dusk)

Temps can drop at night, even in July and August, so bring layers if you’re staying overnight.

Visiting in the Winter: Snowmobiling from Brundage

Winter at Burgdorf is a totally different experience. The road is completely snowed over, so you’ll need to snowmobile in—and that’s where the adventure really begins.

I booked a guided snowmobile tour with Brundage Mountain Snowmobile Adventures, and it was easily one of the most fun ways I’ve ever gotten to a hot spring. Our guides, Jake and Robbie, led us through backcountry trails, over ridges, and along a snow-covered road until we reached the springs. Riding through the forest with fresh powder all around, then soaking in a hot pool while snow fell? That’s a hard combo to beat.

Brundage Snowmobile Adventures

• Phone: 208-634-4151
• Website: https://brundage.com/snowmobile/

If you’re staying overnight in winter, bring a warm sleeping bag (rated to 15°F or lower), extra food, and lots of warm layering basics. The cabins stay warm with wood stoves, but the cold can sneak in fast once the fire dies down.

Food & Drink

You’ll need to bring all of your own food and drinks to Burgdorf—especially if you’re staying overnight or coming in by snowmobile. There’s no restaurant or store on-site.

On-Site:

Nearby:

Alcohol isn’t allowed in the pools or anywhere around them. They’re strict about it, so leave the drinks behind and respect the vibe.

Final Tips

A few final thoughts to help you plan:

After growing up visiting Burgdorf Hot Springs, and returning year after year as an adult, I can honestly say it’s one of the most unique hot spring destinations in Idaho. It’s remote, rustic, and a little rough around the edges—but that’s exactly what makes it worth the trip.

Whether you’re snowmobiling in for a winter soak or camping nearby in the summer, Burgdorf is the kind of place you’ll want to come back to.

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