Downata Hot Springs: Downey Adventure Guide 2026

Downata Hot Springs is a family-friendly geothermal resort in Idaho near the town of Downey. It is set in southeastern Idaho’s countryside surrounded by mountains, valleys, and natural springs. The resort has diverse lodging options including yurts, cabins, vacation homes, covered wagons, tepees, and wall tents that give guests an adventurous and comfortable stay. 

Each accommodation offers its own character with rustic charm, modern amenities, and cozy atmospheres. These hot springs in Idaho are the main attraction. The water flows naturally at 112°F from the source, with pools maintained between 85-106°F depending on the season. The resort features four exciting water slides including the signature Black Hole slide. Guests can soak while taking in scenic mountain views. 

Downata Hot Springs has a solid rating of 4.3 out of 5. The resort welcomes both day visitors and overnight guests with over 100 campsites and RV hookups available. When I visited, I, Anna Lehmann, felt completely rejuvenated soaking in the mineral waters, and I’m excited to share this experience on SoakDestinations.

What Are Downata Hot Springs? Quick Overview

Downata Hot Springs Directions & Map

Downata Hot Springs Photos: A Glimpse Into Gallery

Important Information About Downata Hot Springs

How hot are the pools at Downata Hot Springs?

The source spring reaches 112°F naturally. Swimming pools are 85-99°F in summer and 95-101°F in winter. Hot soaking pools maintain 102-106°F year-round for consistent relaxation.

What are Downata Hot Springs hours?

The resort operates Wednesday-Saturday with seasonal variations. Winter hours are 8am-8pm Wednesday-Thursday and 8am-10pm Friday-Saturday. Summer extends to daily operations Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Is Downata Hot Springs worth visiting?

Absolutely worth visiting for families and enthusiasts. The resort combines natural hot springs, thrilling slides including the Black Hole, and diverse lodging. Water is crystal clear with no sulfur odor.

Downata Hot Springs Reviews: Let Me Share My Experience

My experience at this historic resort was truly memorable and filled with family fun. I enjoyed the warmth of the naturally heated pools from the moment I arrived. The Dragon Slide and Black Hole slide provided exciting thrills for all ages. I loved the peaceful rural setting surrounded by Idaho’s natural beauty.

The poolside snack bar offered delicious food and refreshing treats. This review reflects my appreciation for well-maintained facilities and friendly staff. The resort felt clean and welcoming throughout my visit. I left feeling refreshed and eager to return with family and friends.

Downata Hot Springs Weather & Temperature Yearly

Downata Hot Springs has a continental climate. Summers are warm and pleasant reaching the mid-80s. Winters are cold with regular snowfall dropping to the teens. Visit in summer for water slides and camping, or winter for peaceful soaking.

Downata Hot Springs Camping Adventure

• Contact No: (208) 897-5736

Downata Hot Springs offers extensive camping in a mountain setting. There are over 100 campsites with RV hookups in 20/30 amp and 50 amp. Options include covered wagons, tepees, wall tents, yurts, cabins, and vacation homes. 

The campground is pet-friendly. Check-in is at 4:00 PM and check-out is at 11:00 AM. Overnight guests receive discounted admission.

Downata Hot Springs Slides: Thrilling Water Adventures

Downata Hot Springs features four exciting water slides that provide fun for all ages. The Dragon Slide and Little Green Hole are gentler options perfect for younger children. The Black Hole slide is the resort’s signature attraction—featuring a dramatic 45% drop that goes underground before splashing into the pool. The Sea Serpent offers a winding path with twists and turns.

Height and weight restrictions apply: riders must be 48 inches tall for the Big Slide and Black Hole slide. Riders over 160 pounds are restricted from certain slides. Life jackets are allowed only on the Dragon slides, while swimmers must know how to swim for the pool slides and Black Hole. All slides operate during the summer season only, typically from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.

Downata Hot Springs Pool Hours & Schedule

Winter/Spring Hours (September-May):

• Hot Pools: Wednesday & Thursday 8am-8pm ($10), Friday & Saturday 8am-10pm ($12)
• Recreation Pool: Wednesday & Thursday 8am-10am ($5), Friday 5pm-8pm ($8)
• Closed: Sunday-Tuesday

Summer Hours (Memorial Day-Labor Day):

• Hot Pools: Monday-Saturday 8am-8pm
• Recreation Pool & Slides: Monday-Thursday 12:30pm-8pm (June) or Noon-8pm (July-August)
• Friday & Saturday 11am-8pm
• Closed: Sunday

Special programs include Senior Swim & Soak classes, Red Cross swim lessons, and pool party packages during summer months.

Downata Hot Springs Prices: Admission & Packages

Day Use Admission:

• Hot Pools: $10 (Wednesday-Thursday), $12 (Friday-Saturday)
• Recreation Pool (Winter): $5 (Wednesday-Thursday morning), $8 (Friday evening)
• Summer rates vary; check website for current pricing

Special Packages:

• Dinner & Soak Deal: $50 for 2 guests (plus tax and gratuity)
• Two-Day Pass: Available for Friday & Saturday recreation pool access
• Group rates available for 15+ people

Camping & Lodging:

• RV sites, tent camping, yurts, cabins, and vacation homes available
• Overnight guests receive discounted pool admission
• Prices vary by accommodation type; reservations required

Spectator rates available for non-swimmers. All admission fees are per person regardless of age. Reservations recommended for dinner service and lodging.

Downata Hot Springs Menu: PoolSide Restaurant & Snack Bar

The PoolSide Restaurant and Snack Bar offer a variety of dining options for visitors. The restaurant serves breakfast from 8am-11am and dinner from 5pm-8pm (reservations required for dinner). The snack bar operates Friday & Saturday from noon-8pm during fall/winter.

Restaurant Menu Highlights:

• Ribeye steak
• Stuffed chicken
• Fresh bread and sides
• Breakfast classics
• Special Steak & Soak packages available

Snack Bar Favorites:

• Hamburgers
• Pizza (online ordering available)
• Milkshakes
• Ice cream and frozen treats
• Soft drinks

The food is made fresh to order with generous portions. Many guests praise the quality of the steaks and the delicious milkshakes. Group Christmas party dinners are available in December for groups of 15 or more by reservation.

Things to Do and Nearby Attractions Near Downata Hot Springs

Downata Hot Springs is surrounded by outdoor adventures. Below are great places to explore:

• Lava Hot Springs: Located 15 miles away, this destination offers additional hot springs pools, river tubing, and a charming downtown perfect for day trips exploring Idaho’s geothermal attractions.
• Oxford Peak ATV Trails: These trails provide miles of ATV and UTV adventures through scenic southeastern Idaho mountains, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking thrilling exploration and views.
• Oxford Slough Waterfowl Area: This marsh and wetland area offers excellent birdwatching where visitors can spot raptors, shorebirds, songbirds, upland birds, and waterfowl throughout different seasons.
• Downata Heritage Park Museum: Located in Downey, this museum showcases the region’s history through fascinating exhibits and artifacts, making it a quiet educational stop for history enthusiasts.
• Portneuf River: Enjoy fishing and scenic views along this beautiful river with peaceful spots perfect for picnicking, relaxing, and connecting with nature in southeastern Idaho.

Tips for Visiting Downata Hot Springs

Planning ahead helps you enjoy the facilities to the fullest. Here are useful tips:

• Check operating hours before visiting: The resort is closed Sunday-Tuesday during winter and spring months, while summer hours differ significantly, so verify the current schedule before planning your trip.
• Make dinner reservations in advance: The PoolSide Restaurant requires reservations for dinner service, and walk-ins are available at the snack bar only, so book ahead to avoid disappointment.
• Arrive early for popular times: Weekends and summer days can get crowded quickly, so early arrival ensures less congestion, better parking availability, and a more peaceful soaking experience.
• Follow slide height requirements: Children must be 48 inches tall for certain slides, and swimmers must know how to swim for most attractions to ensure safety for all visitors.
• Book lodging well ahead: Popular weekends and summer months fill up quickly at the resort, and a 10-day cancellation policy applies to all reservations requiring advance planning.

What to Bring When Visiting Downata Hot Springs?

Being prepared enhances your visit. Here are essential items:

• Swimsuit and cover-up: Essential for pool access and moving between facilities comfortably throughout the resort, ensuring you’re prepared for both soaking and walking around the grounds.
• Towels: While available for rent at $1 each, bringing your own saves money and ensures availability, especially during busy weekends when rental supplies may run low.
• Water shoes or sandals: Helpful for walking safely on pool decks and around the resort, protecting your feet from hot surfaces during summer and providing traction on wet areas.
• Sunscreen: Essential during summer months for outdoor pool activities and water slides, protecting your skin from strong Idaho sun exposure throughout the day at the resort.
• Cash or card: Needed for snack bar purchases, towel rentals, and other on-site services, as well as any last-minute items you might want during your visit.

Restaurants Near Downata Hot Springs

After soaking, several dining options are nearby. Below are popular places:

• El Toro Viejo (Preston): Serves authentic Mexican food with generous portions and friendly atmosphere, making it a local favorite for flavorful dishes located about 15 miles from the resort.
• Big J’s Burgers and Pizza (Preston): Known for tasty burgers and homemade pizza, this casual family spot offers a relaxed environment and good food at reasonable prices nearby.
• Riverside Family Restaurant (Downey): A cozy American diner offering classic breakfast options and comfort food, conveniently located near the hot springs for quick, satisfying meals before or after soaking.
• Portneuf Grille & Lounge (Lava Hot Springs): This upscale restaurant features Northwest cuisine including fresh seafood and USDA prime steaks with a distinctive riverside setting for special occasions.
• Jakers Bar and Grill (Pocatello): A popular steakhouse offering quality cuts and fresh seafood with consistent quality in a welcoming atmosphere located approximately 40 miles away.

Hotels Near Downata Hot Springs

Comfortable accommodations are available on-site and nearby. Below are good options:

• Downata Hot Springs Resort (On-Site): The resort offers yurts, cabins, vacation homes, covered wagons, tepees, and wall tents with discounted pool admission and easy facility access for guests.
• Flag’s West Motel (Downey): Located 5 miles from the resort, this cozy motel offers clean, renovated rooms with charming vintage character and an on-site restaurant serving excellent breakfast classics.
• The Suites of Lava Hot Springs: This inviting hotel caters to active travelers with modern amenities and flat-screen TVs, located about 15 miles away, providing a comfortable exploration base.
• Riverside Hot Springs Inn (Lava Hot Springs): A historic downtown inn featuring its own hot springs access, offering easy access to both Lava and Downata for a complete soaking experience.
• Lions Gate Manor B&B (Lava Hot Springs): This charming bed and breakfast offers a peaceful retreat with complimentary WiFi and free parking, providing intimate lodging about 16 miles away.

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