The Lava Hot Springs World Famous Hot Pools are the centerpiece of the town of Lava Hot Springs. For centuries, Native Americans considered the area a sacred healing place. Later, the springs became part of the Fort Hall Reservation and eventually passed into the ownership of the State of Idaho, which established the Lava Hot Springs Foundation to manage and operate them.

Pure geothermal mineral water rises from an underground aquifer and feeds five outdoor soaking pools. The pools feature natural gravel bottoms, giving them a classic hot-spring feel. There is also a terraced children’s pool with shallower water.

Facilities include showers, changing rooms, restrooms, and coin-operated lockers. A snow-melt system built into the pool decks allows for safe and comfortable winter soaking. The pools and restrooms are fully accessible.

Lava Hot Springs offers numerous lodging options, many with their own geothermal soaking tubs.

Besides soaking, visitors can stroll through Sunken Gardens, float the Portneuf River, explore local restaurants, shops, and cafés, relax in city parks, or visit local museums and galleries.

Lava 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 five outdoor soaking pools, each designed for a relaxing and safe experience.

The soaking experience includes:

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 remains soothing in every season.

Swimsuits are required for all guests.

Beyond the geothermal pools, Lava Hot Springs offers many things to see and do:

Stroll through the Sunken Gardens.
Located just above the hot springs, this peaceful free-entry gardent features unique rock formations, native and imported plants, and plenty of photo opportunities.

Float the Portneuf River.
Rent a tube in town and enjoy a relaxing or thrilling ride on the water.

Explore Main Street.
Local restaurants, cafés, and shops are just steps away, offering everything from ice cream to Idaho souvenirs.

Relax in city parks.
Several parks provide picnic areas and open spaces for family gatherings or reunions.

Discover local history.
Visit nearby museums and galleries or simply enjoy a scenic walk through town.

Everything in Lava Hot Springs is within easy walking distance, making it easy to turn a hot springs visit into a fun, full-day adventure.

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)

Water T° (source): 112°F (44°C)
Water T° (pools): 102°F–112°F (39°C–44°C)
Odor: None
Water acidity level: Acidic (pH=5.2)
Chemical used: None

Mineral Content:

Alkalinity Carbonate (CO3) - 0mg/l
Alkalinity bicarbonate (HCO3) - 534 mg/l
Alkalinity Total (CaCO3) - 438mg/l
Potassium - 52mg/l
Sodium - 160mg/l
Iron - <0.05 mg/l
Manganese - <0.02 mg/l
Nitrate and nitrite - 0.31mg/l
Chloride - 170mg/l
Fluoride - 0.65mg/l
Sulfate - 100mg/l
Calcium. - 98mg/l
Hardness as CaCo3 - 372mg/l
Magnesium - 31mg/l