• Lava Hot Springs Foundation World Famous Hot Springs has 5 outdoor soaking pools
• Beautiful Sunken Gardens are located just above the hot springs

Lava Hot Springs Foundation World Famous Hot Springs is the centerpiece of the small town of Lava Hot Springs, Idaho. This historic destination is famous for its natural geothermal pools, where crystal-clear mineral water flows up from deep underground.

For centuries, the area around Lava Hot Springs was considered a sacred healing site by Native American tribes, who gathered here to soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters.

In the late 1800s, the springs became part of the Fort Hall Reservation through a treaty between the tribes and the US government.

In 1902, the State of Idaho took ownership of the springs and the surrounding land. The state soon established the Lava Hot Springs Foundation to manage and protect this unique resource.

Today, the Foundation operates the hot springs as a family-friendly, day-use facility, welcoming visitors from all over the world to relax and rejuvenate in Idaho’s most famous natural hot pools.

Lava Hot Springs Foundation World Famous Hot Springs Soaking

Pure geothermal mineral water rises from an underground aquifer at a natural temperature of about 112°F (44°C).

This water feeds a series of 5 outdoor soaking pools, each designed for a relaxing and safe experience.

The hot pools feature:

• Five outdoor soaking pools with temperatures ranging from 102°F to 112°F (39°C–44°C), so you can find your ideal soak.
• Crystal-clear, mineral-rich water with no sulfur odor and no chemical additives.
• Natural rock and gravel pool bottoms for a classic hot spring feel.
• A terraced children’s pool with shallower water, perfect for families with young kids.
• Handicap-accessible pools and restrooms to welcome all visitors.
• Snow-melt system built into the pool decks, making winter soaking comfortable and safe.

Facilities include modern showers, changing rooms, and restrooms, with coin-operated lockers available for a small fee.

The pools are open year-round, and the clean, ever-flowing mineral water is soothing in every season.

Swimsuits are required for all guests.

The town of Lava Hot Springs has a lot of places to stay.

Lava Hot Springs Lodging

Here are the spots in town with their own private geothermal soaking.

• Riverside Hot Springs Inn is a historic hotel with private soaking.
• Lava Hotel & Spa is a fresh, modern stay with private indoor and outdoor pools and easy access to everything downtown.
• The Home Hotel is a historic stay with private soaking and convenient access to outdoor adventures.
• Lava Hot Springs Inn is a historic and relaxing Idaho retreat with soaking.

Location: Lava Hot Springs • Southeastern Idaho • USA
Open: Year-round
Development: Five outdoor soaking pools, children’s pool, changing rooms, showers, lockers, gift shop

Hiking distance: Short
Road access: Any vehicle
Day-use fees: Yes

Elevation: 5,000 ft (1,524 m)