Burgdorf Hot Springs – McCall, Idaho

Rated one of the most popular hot springs in Idaho, the Burgdorf Hot Springs in McCall is known for its large, world-class outdoor geothermal pool. Nestled among the mountains, this hot springs resort offers rustic accommodations and top-notch views of the surrounding forest.

It’s situated in the northern-central part of the state, about a 3-hour drive north of Boise. There are three pools with sandy bottoms, and some primitive cabins on-site, as well as a nearby campground under the same name, Burgdorf CG. The decent-sized town of McCall (population of 3,688 in 2020), is 50 minutes to the south and has shopping, dining, and additional lodging.

Natural Hot Springs Pools

Sunset over the geothermal pool at Burgdorf Hot Springs Idaho — Burgdorf Hot Springs, McCall, ID. Photo by: Pictoscribe – News Fatigue Syndrome

As one of the oldest and largest hot springs in Idaho, Burgdorf Hot Springs’s rustic nature makes it look like it came out of a classic movie. There is a large outdoor pool that averages temperatures of between 96 and 113°F, depending on the time of year. It’s available to the public year-round.

Additionally, there are some small pools in the area closer to the source, which hover around 113°F but can go a little lower.

This hot spring oasis is most suitable for outdoor enthusiasts. Offering day activities including hiking, picnicking, and fishing, there is something for everyone.

Burgdorf Hot Springs smaller hot tubs — Smaller hot tubs at Burgdorf Hot Springs. Photo by: Pictoscribe – News Fatigue Syndrome

Burgdorf is a suitable destination to visit in the summer months as well as winter. However, it is important to note that the car route can become inaccessible due to heavy snowfall. As an alternative, you can reach the springs by snowmobile, which adds an adventurous touch to the trip!

Camper Cabins

Burgdorf Hot Springs Cabin Circa 1865 Idaho — Cabin from circa 1865 at Burgdorf Hot Springs. Photo by: Pictoscribe – News Fatigue Syndrome

Burgdorf Hot Springs has up to 15 cabins available for overnight guests. While these historic cabins are furnished, they are rather rustic and do not have running water or electricity. There is no bedding provided, so you will need to bring your own, and cell reception is non-existent. It’s essentially “camping inside a cabin”.

While there is a limited on-site menu available for lunch and dinner, Burgdorf management recommends all visitors bring their own food due to its location being so isolated.

Nearby Camping

Sign for Burgdorf Campground Idaho — Burgdorf Campground, Idaho. Photo by: USFS Payette NF

About a half-mile south, a two-minute drive from the hot springs resort is Burgdorf Campground. There are just 3 campsites here, all first-come, first-serve. From June to September there is potable water at the campground, which is typically reachable from May to October.

The primitive sites have no hookups and there is no dumpster or trash pick-up here, so please pack out all your trash and everything you take with you. There is a vault toilet and a small fee for camping here. It’s managed by the Payette National Forest.

In addition to the nearby hot springs, there are several scenic trails in the area, so the area is popular for recreation, but the campground receives light usage.

For those looking for a remote vacation surrounded by incredible scenic views, look no further than the Burgdorf Hot Springs.