Givens Hot Springs sits at the foot of the Owyhee Mountains in southwest Idaho’s high desert, about 26 miles from Nampa and a short drive from the Snake River. This family-run, budget-friendly geothermal site has welcomed travelers since the late 1800s and remains one of Idaho’s oldest developed hot springs.

Milford and Mattie Givens established the homestead in 1879 and later expanded it with their sons. By the early 1900s, a bathhouse and hotel made this a popular health retreat for visitors seeking the benefits of hot mineral water. Although the hotel burned in 1939 and was never rebuilt, the hot springs tradition continues.

A mid-1800s covered wagon replica on the property nods to the Oregon Trail era and the early settlers who once passed through this rugged, scenic corner of the Snake River Plain.

Today, visitors can soak in mineral-rich water in an indoor pool or reserve a private fill-and-drain tub for a hotter, quieter experience. It’s an easy day trip from Boise, Nampa, or Caldwell, with straightforward access along paved Highway 78, clear signage, and plenty of parking.

Givens Hot Springs Experience

The naturally mineralized geothermal water at Givens Hot Springs emerges from an artesian source at about 135°F (57°C). It’s piped into:

Large indoor swimming pool: Slightly chlorinated for cleanliness. Typical temperatures range from 98–100°F (36–38°C) in winter to 92–95°F (33–35°C) in summer—comfortable for long, relaxing soaks and family swims.
Two indoor private soaking tubs: Fill-and-drain tubs that you can adjust up to 110°F (43°C) for a hotter, more secluded soak.

The water has a light, natural mineral scent and the signature soft feel of Idaho hot springs. Quick showers and private dressing rooms make transitions easy before and after soaking.

Swimwear is required in all public areas. No pets are allowed on the premises. Please practice Leave No Trace and keep picnic and camping areas clean.

On-site amenities include picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms, showers, a snack bar, swimsuit and towel rentals, and an event center. If you need additional supplies, the town of Marsing is about 11 miles away with fuel and groceries.

Pair your soak with Owyhee County scenery and numerous activities nearby. The surrounding area offers more to explore. Hike to Jump Creek Falls, a scenic 60-foot waterfall tucked into a desert canyon just 20 minutes away.

Follow the Owyhee Front Backcountry Byway for panoramic desert views, wildflower displays in spring, and excellent photo opportunities. Along the Snake River, you can enjoy fishing, wildlife viewing, or a peaceful riverside picnic. For a different kind of experience, visit nearby Snake River Valley wineries or sample local produce and farm stands around Marsing and Homedale.

If you want more geothermal experiences, several other hot springs lie within an hour or two of Givens. Head north to Roystone Hot Springs, which offers both public soaking pools and private tubs. For a wilder soak in natural surroundings, visit Lower Indian Hot Springs, tucked into the high desert southeast of Givens, or Snively Hot Springs on the banks of the Owyhee River in easternmost Oregon.

Stay just steps from the water with several on-site lodging options, including an RV park with water and electric hookups, a campground offering tent-friendly sites with picnic tables and fire rings, and a few historic cabins and trailers providing simple, rustic accommodations close to the pool.

If you prefer more amenities, motels and hotels are available in Nampa along with vacation rentals scattered throughout the Snake River Valley.

Lodging in Nampa

Affordable vacation rentals for short- and long-term stays at Givens Hot Springs

Location: 26 miles southeast of Nampa • Idaho • USA
Open: Year-round every day from noon to 9pm
Development: Large swimming pool, child pool, and private soaking tubs
Clothing: Required
Amenities: Snack bar, showers

Hiking distance: Short
Road Access: Any vehicle
Day-use: Yes, with fees

Elevation: 2,300 ft (701 m)

Water T° (source): 135°F (57°C)
Water T° (large pool): 92-100°F (33-38°C)
Water T° (soaking tubs): Can be adjusted up to 110°F (43°C)
Chemical used: Yes, in the swimming pool