A Complete Guide to Visiting Lava Hot Springs, Idaho
In this guide, we’re sharing everything you need to know to plan a fun and relaxing getaway to Lava Hot Springs, Idaho—including where to soak, stay, eat, and play! We recently visited Lava Hot Springs on a summer road trip, and it quickly became one of our favorite hidden gems in the Rockies. From playing on the slides at the Olympic Swimming Complex and soaking in world-famous geothermal pools to floating the Portneuf River and exploring quirky downtown shops, this town is packed with small-town charm and big adventure energy. Whether you’re visiting for a family vacation, a couples retreat, or just passing through on a road trip, Lava Hot Springs is absolutely worth the stop. About Lava Hot Springs, Idaho Nestled in a lush valley in southeastern Idaho, Lava Hot Springs is a charming resort town famous for its natural hot springs, crystal-clear river, and laid-back atmosphere. The town’s namesake geothermal pools have been drawing visitors for over a century—and are still the main attraction today. The mineral-rich waters here bubble up from underground at a toasty 102°–112°F and contain no sulfur, so there’s no rotten egg smell—in other words, it doesn’t smell like me! 😆 The town itself is walkable, friendly, and full of candy shops, floating tube rentals, historic museums, and family-friendly lodging options. Before embarking on your adventure, please review the Leave No Trace principles to ensure you leave every place better than you found it, so that others can enjoy these beautiful places for many years to come! These seven principles include planning ahead and preparing, hiking and camping on durable surfaces, disposing of waste properly (pack out what you pack in!), understanding campfire rules and always fully extinguishing your fires, respecting wildlife, and being considerate of other visitors. When to visit Lava Hot Springs 🌷 Spring (March–May) Perfect weather for soaking and strolling. River tubing opens mid-to-late spring depending on water levels. However, be aware that the water will be COLD this time of year! It’s cold year-round honestly, but this time of year is brutal. ☀️ Summer (June–August) Peak season! River floating is at its best. Book lodging and hot springs tickets early—especially on weekends. This cool Idaho town gets busy during the summer, and for good reason. It’s such a fun spot to visit in summer! 🍂 Fall (September–October) Cooler temps = ideal hot spring soaking weather. The town quiets down and the fall colors are stunning in the surrounding hills. ❄️ Winter (November–February) Here comes the snow! You can soak in 112°F water while snowflakes fall around you, which honestly is pretty epic! You’ll have much fewer crowds, but some lodging and dining will be closed. Getting to and around Lava Hot Springs Lava Hot Springs is located in southeastern Idaho, about 2 hours north of Salt Lake City, UT and 45 minutes southeast of Pocatello, ID. Closest Airports: Pocatello Regional Airport (PIH) – 45 minutes away Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) – 2-hour drive Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA) – 1 hour 45 minutes Driving to Lava Hot Springs 🚙 Driving is the best way to get there. The town is small and walkable once you arrive, but you’ll need a vehicle to explore nearby attractions or access campsites. Where to stay in Lava Hot Springs Whether you’re looking for a vintage motel, a family cabin, or a riverside RV site, Lava Hot Springs has something cozy for everyone. 🏨 Hotels & Motels Home Hotel – Located right across from the hot springs, this historic hotel pumps the same mineral water directly into its private soaking tubs. Riverside Hot Springs Inn – Adults-only, historic hotel with private hot soaking rooms. It has an on-site spa and restaurant. Lava Hot Springs Inn – Charming, rustic property with multiple outdoor hot spring pools for guests. It’s also pet-friendly! 🛌 Vacation Rentals Cozy Cottage Downtown – Walk to everything! Cute 2-bedroom house with a deck and full kitchen. Hilltop House with Views – Sleeps 6, modern décor, amazing views, 5-minute drive from downtown. ⛺ Camping & RV Parks Portneuf Bend Campground – We stayed here last time we visited and it was a REALLY awesome campground, and less expensive than the KOA and other campgrounds in the area. This is the campground we recommend the most for its location and cost. Lava Campground – We’ve stayed here as well and they have full hook-ups, shaded spots, and close access to the Portneuf River and tubing. There’s a playground for kids here too! Nu Bend RV Park – Family-friendly campground along the river with great views, grassy sites, and fire pits. KOA Lava Hot Springs – Amenities include a playground, mini-golf, and pool. Great for families. Where to Eat in Lava Hot Springs Despite its size, Lava offers up some fun and tasty dining spots! 🍔 Casual Bites Chuckwagon Diner – American classics, breakfast all day, and friendly service. Blue Moon Bar & Grill – Pub-style eats, burgers, and live music on weekends. Royal Hotel Pizza – Laid-back pizza and salad bar in a vintage hotel setting. 🌯 Unique Eats Greystone Coffee – Grab a latte and pastry from this adorable café inside a historic building. 🍦 Treats & Sweets Sweet Shoppe – Old-school candy store with taffy, fudge, and ice cream. 20 Below Frozen Yogurt – Refreshing froyo bar perfect after a hot soak or river float. What to Bring to Lava Hot Springs As always, we recommend having the 10 essentials on you when venturing into nature, but here are a few key items we want to point out that will especially help you during your visit! To ensure you have a safe and enjoyable time at Lava Hot Springs, here are some items we’d suggest bringing with you! ✔️ Swimsuit (or two!) ✔️ Quick-dry towel ✔️ Flip-flops or water shoes ✔️ Sunscreen and hat ✔️ Change of clothes for after the river ✔️ Camera or waterproof phone case ✔️ Reusable water bottle ✔️ Snacks for in between dips! LAYERS