Kirkham

Star4.03
65 reviews
7359 Hwy 21, LOWMAN, ID, 83637, USA
SwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

4,000 ft

Price

$5 - $30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

33 campsites

Season

Peak season from May...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Lowman Ranger District site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Kirkham
$5.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Day use fee is $5 per vehicle. Camping fees range from $15 for smaller sites to $30 for standard non-electric campsites.
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
208-259-3361
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What Campers Say

4.03

Satisfactory

Based on 65 reviews

773 Google reviews

Most mentioned

water

"Kirkham Campground has mixed reviews from visitors. The hot springs are consistently praised as the main attraction. Visitors enjoy the unique natural features, such as waterfalls and steaming pools. However, issues like overcrowding, parking limitations, and cleanliness concerns are recurring themes in reviews. Some users also noted poor management during busy seasons."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

7359 Hwy 21, LOWMAN, ID, 83637, USA

Kirkham

7359 Hwy 21, LOWMAN, ID, 83637, USA

Driving directionsFrom Boise, Idaho, take State Highway 55 to Banks. Turn east onto the Banks-Lowman Highway and travel to Lowman. Turn left on Highway 21. The campground is located 5 miles east at milepost 77.
Accessible via State Highway 21. The road is paved, with plenty of curves, and requires caution when driving. Seasonal closures may apply, and you must verify conditions during winter months.
Nearby places
Boise (58 miles, approximately 1.5-2 hours drive), Banks (approx. 30 miles), Garden Valley (approx. 25 miles).
Nearby supplies
A small gas station/cafe and mechanic are nearby. Supplies, fuel, and groceries are best sourced in Boise or Garden Valley.

Best Time to Camp at Kirkham

Summer transforms Kirkham into a sun-drenched paradise where temperatures soar and the minimal tree cover becomes both a blessing and consideration for shade-seekers. Peak camping weeks typically bring brilliantly clear skies and dry conditions perfect for stargazing and river activities. For those preferring gentler temperatures, May welcomes visitors with spring's fresh bloom and comfortable days, while September offers crisp mornings and golden afternoons—ideal for those memorable campfire conversations without summer's intensity.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.0 / 5

Peak season is sunny and hot with minimal shade and high crowds; good activities but busy.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Fall offers fewer crowds and pleasant conditions; scenery remains strong.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5
Top 11% in ID

Spring wildflowers and river flows make spring appealing; early season access and cold water possible.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
3.5 / 5
Top 12% in ID

Winter visits recommended for fewer crowds and hot-spring soaking, though access/conditions may vary.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 21, 2025 - September 30, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Peak season from May 21 to September 30. Reservations start June 24.
  • Current Alerts: Some reviews mention closures due to vandalism and overcrowding. Verify current conditions with the Lowman Ranger District.

About Kirkham

Where crystal-clear waters meet natural hot springs, Kirkham Campground beckons adventurers to experience one of Idaho's most cherished riverside retreats. Perched alongside the rushing South Fork Payette River, this beloved destination seamlessly blends relaxation with adventure. Soak in the famous Kirkham Hot Springs after a day exploring the scenic Kirkham Ridge Trail, cast a line into pristine waters teeming with trout, or feel your pulse quicken as whitewater rafters navigate the rapids just beyond your campsite.
Kirkham Campground offers a combination of tent and RV camping options. Campsites include single-family and one double site. Amenities cater to a range of campers seeking both relaxation and adventure near natural hot springs.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in starts at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum 14-night stay.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Kirkham Campground offers a wide range of recreational activities, making it a popular destination. The star attraction is the Kirkham Hot Springs, located along the South Fork Payette River, accessible via a trail with staircases. Activities include hiking, biking, and horseback riding on the Kirkham Ridge Trail, which connects to other trails over a span of 35 miles. Seasonal whitewater rafting and kayaking are available on the river, and there are opportunities for trout fishing. "Soaking in natural hot springs with waterfalls is the highlight," wrote one camper. Wildlife viewing is also popular, with elk sightings noted by visitors. Nearby attractions, such as additional natural hot springs along Highway 21 and scenic byways, add to the allure.
HikingHiking opportunities are abundant. The Kirkham Ridge Trail, located less than 1/4-mile from the campground, offers 35 miles of scenic trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Parts of the trail are seasonally open to off-road vehicles. One user described the trail as providing "mesmerizing scenic views of the canyon and river."
FishingTrout fishing is available in the South Fork Payette River, which runs adjacent to the campground. The quality of fishing isn't explicitly detailed in reviews, but the river is noted as a significant feature for outdoor recreation.
BikingThe Kirkham Ridge Trail accommodates mountain biking, offering opportunities to explore the scenic terrain.
BoatingThe South Fork Payette River supports seasonal whitewater rafting and kayaking. Several companies in the area offer guided trips. The river's flow and accessibility make it a popular choice for water sports enthusiasts.
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is a noted activity, with elk observed in the area, particularly during winter. The scenic byways near the campground also offer opportunities for spotting various wildlife species.
Winter Activities
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsRocks near hot springs are sharp, requiring careful footing. The Payette River has strong currents, posing risks for swimmers.
Active AlertsSome reviews mention closures due to vandalism and overcrowding. Verify current conditions with the Lowman Ranger District.

Weather at Kirkham

Reviews

4.0
65 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Kirkham is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Kirkham Campground has mixed reviews from visitors. The hot springs are consistently praised as the main attraction. Visitors enjoy the unique natural features, such as waterfalls and steaming pools. However, issues like overcrowding, parking limitations, and cleanliness concerns are recurring themes in reviews. Some users also noted poor management during busy seasons.
Review Summaries
Based on 65 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive feedback centers around the natural beauty and recreational activities. "The hot springs are magical," noted one review. The proximity to the river, scenic trails, and tranquil setting are...
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Based on 65 reviews

Common Concerns

Overcrowding is a major concern, especially during peak times. Multiple users mentioned "dirty bathrooms" and litter issues. Limited parking was another frustration. "Bathrooms were filled with...
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Based on 65 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend arriving early or during off-peak hours to enjoy the hot springs in peace. "Weekdays are the best time to go," noted one user. Water shoes are highly recommended due to sharp,...
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Based on 65 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter visits are recommended for those who prefer fewer crowds and enjoy soaking in hot springs during colder weather. Summers can be "very hot and sunny," with minimal shade at campsites. Fall...
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Based on 65 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "Soaking in natural hot springs with waterfalls is the highlight." 2. "Bathrooms were super dirty, with trash everywhere." 3. "The campground is open and sunny with minimal shade." 4. "Arrive...
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Based on 65 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Specific complaints focus on poor maintenance during busy holidays. For example, one visitor had issues with their reserved campsite being double-booked. Another noted the lack of vegetation at...
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Based on 65 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews from users with disabilities were found, but the campground's paved roads and accessible sites suggest some accommodations for visitors with mobility challenges.
Based on 65 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are not explicitly mentioned in the official details, but some user reviews noted pet restrictions, such as "dogs are not allowed," although enforcement was inconsistent.
Based on 65 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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