Lava Hot Springs 2026: Idaho’s Top Mineral Pools 

Lava Hot Springs is one of Idaho’s most iconic geothermal destinations, nestled in the scenic Portneuf River valley in southeastern Idaho. The resort draws mineral-rich water from natural underground springs, producing crystal-clear, odorless pools flowing between 102°F and 112°F. Open 363 days a year, it offers five outdoor soaking pools, an Olympic swimming complex, and a year-round indoor aquatic center. 

Nearby attractions include Bear Lake, Pebble Creek Ski Area, and the charming streets of historic downtown Lava. As a hot spring enthusiast, sharing this experience on SoakDestinations allows me to guide others toward this magical Idaho retreat. Also explore our complete guide to Hot Springs in Idaho for more gems across the Gem State.

What Are Lava Hot Springs Hot Pools? Quick Overview

Lava Hot Springs Directions & Google Map

Lava Hot Springs Photos: A Glimpse Into the Gallery

Important Information About Lava Hot Springs

Is Lava Hot Springs Open?

Lava Hot Springs is open 363 days a year, closing only on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. The hottest pool is under reconstruction until around May or June 2026, but the remaining four outdoor pools, Indoor Aquatic Center, and Portneuf Kiddie Cove remain fully open throughout construction.

What Are Lava Hot Springs Pool Hours?

Summer hours (May 1–Sept 30) run daily from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM. Winter hours (Oct 1–Apr 30) are 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM weekdays and Sundays, extending to 11:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays. The facility closes on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, with reduced Christmas Eve hours of 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

What Are Lava Hot Springs Prices?

Admission is age-based and varies by day. Ages 12–59 pay $8.00 Monday–Thursday and $12.00 on Fridays, weekends, and holidays. A Combination Pass covers both hot pools and the swimming complex. All passes are one-time entry; a “Buy 10, Get 1 Free” punch card is also available for frequent visitors.

• Ages 2 & Under: $3.00 flat rate any day of the week.
• Ages 3–11: $7.50 Monday–Thursday; $10.00 Friday–Sunday and holidays.
• Ages 12–59: $8.00 Monday–Thursday; $12.00 Friday–Sunday and holidays.
• Ages 60+: $7.50 Monday–Thursday; $10.00 Friday–Sunday and holidays.
• Summer Combo Pass: $18.00 weekdays / $22.00 weekends, covers hot pools and swimming complex.
• Winter Combo Pass: $12.00 weekdays / $16.00 weekends, valid when Indoor Aquatic Center is open.

What Is the Lava Hot Springs Construction Update?

The hottest pool — built in the early 1980s — began a full reconstruction in October 2025 after developing serious structural failures including sinking floors and collapsing stairs. The new pool will feature ADA-compliant ramps, a sun deck, and a reinforced foundation. It is expected to reopen around May or June 2026, with four pools open normally in the meantime.

What Are the Lava Hot Springs Directions?

Lava Hot Springs sits just 11 miles off Interstate 15 in southeastern Idaho. From Salt Lake City the drive is roughly two and a half hours north; from Pocatello it is approximately 35 miles. The Hot Pools are at 430 East Main Street, and the Olympic Swimming Complex is at 195 North Center Street, four blocks to the west.

What Is the Lava Hot Springs Phone Number?

The resort’s direct contact number for the World Famous Hot Pools is (208) 776-5221 or toll-free at (800) 423-8597. Guests can also reach the team by email at info@lava.idaho.gov or through the official website at lavahotsprings.com for reservation details and construction updates.

Lava Hot Springs Reviews: Let Me Share My Experience

Lava Hot Springs holds an impressive 4.7 out of 5 stars on Google, with thousands of visitors praising the clean, odorless mineral pools, friendly staff, and affordable pricing. The range of pool temperatures from mild to a steaming 112°F means every guest finds their perfect soak. 

My own visit confirmed every glowing review: pools immaculate, atmosphere calm, and the Idaho mountain air made stepping out feel like a full reset. This is not just a hot spring — it is a genuine Idaho institution that earns every star.

Lava Hot Springs Weather & Temperature Yearly

Lava Hot Springs sits in the Portneuf River valley and experiences all four seasons with distinct character. The sheltered valley position moderates temperatures slightly, and the hot pools make every season rewarding. Steaming mineral water against a snowy Idaho hillside is an experience that few places in the West can match.

Lava Hot Springs Lodging & Camping Adventure

• Contact No: (208) 776-5221

Lava Hot Springs does not offer lodging at its pool facilities, but the surrounding town provides over 500 rooms, campsites, cabins, and vacation rentals. From boutique inns with in-room mineral soaking tubs to riverside RV parks and glamping tents, there is something for every budget. All accommodations are independently owned and must be reserved directly through each property or at lavahotsprings.org.

Things to Do and Nearby Attractions Near Lava Hot Springs

Lava Hot Springs is surrounded by some of Idaho’s most diverse natural and cultural landmarks. Below are the top destinations worth adding to your itinerary.

• Portneuf River Tubing: Rent a one-, two-, or four-person tube downtown and enjoy a refreshing 20-minute float through town on the mineral-fed Portneuf River.
• Olympic Swimming Complex & Waterpark: Features a 60-foot vertical drop water slide, three diving platforms, a kiddie cove, and a year-round indoor aquatic center at 195 North Center Street.
• Bear Lake: Known as the “Caribbean of the Rockies,” this turquoise lake about one hour away is perfect for boating, swimming, and summer beach days.
• Pebble Creek Ski Area: A short drive from town offering downhill skiing and snowboarding for all levels — a perfect pairing with a post-ski soak in the hot pools.
• Historic Chesterfield: A preserved pioneer townsite about 24 miles north, offering a fascinating look at early Idaho settlement and pioneer life.
• South Bannock County Historical Center Museum: A local museum in Lava Hot Springs celebrating regional history, artifacts, and the culture of southeastern Idaho.

Tips for Visiting Lava Hot Springs

A little preparation goes a long way at this beloved, year-round Idaho resort. Keep these practical tips in mind to make the most of your visit.

• Arrive early or late: Weekends and summer afternoons get very busy; early mornings and late evenings offer the calmest, most peaceful soaking experience.
• Check construction updates: With the hottest pool under renovation through 2026, always verify current pool status at lavahotsprings.com before arriving.
• No glass near the pools: All beverages must be in cans or sealed plastic containers; glass is strictly prohibited in all pool areas at all times.
• Use the Wednesday Family Deal: Families visiting on Wednesdays (excluding major holidays) receive significantly discounted group rates — a great money-saving option.
• Buy a punch card: The “Buy 10, Get 1 Free” card is valid for one year and offers excellent value for guests who plan to visit more than once.
• Leave pets at home: No animals are permitted at the facilities except for officially documented service dogs; emotional support animals are not allowed under any circumstances.

What to Bring When Visiting Lava Hot Springs

Packing the right items will make your experience far more enjoyable at this remote, tech-free retreat surrounded by Idaho’s natural landscape.

• Towel and swimsuit: Towels are available for rent on-site, but bringing your own saves time and cost; a swimsuit is always a good idea.
• Drinking water: Staying hydrated is critical after extended mineral soaking; bring more water than you think you will need for the visit.
• Snacks or a packed meal: The pools have no on-site food service; pack enough to fuel a full day, especially for longer soaking sessions or family outings.
• Sandals or flip-flops: Comfortable footwear is helpful for moving between changing areas, the cold plunge, and the outdoor pool areas comfortably.
• Sunscreen: Essential for summer daytime soaks when Idaho sun can be intense, particularly around the open-air pool decks and river tubing areas.
• Bug spray: Useful for evening soaks in warmer months when insects can become active around the river valley and natural pool surroundings.

Where to Eat and Stay Near Lava Hot Springs?

After a relaxing soak at Lava Hot Springs, the town and surrounding Pocatello area offer excellent dining and comfortable stays for every type of visitor.

• 🔵 Blue markers represent recommended restaurants near Lava Hot Springs. 
• 🔴 Red markers represent recommended hotels near Lava Hot Springs.

Restaurants Near Lava Hot Springs:

• Portneuf Grille & Lounge: Fine Northwest-inspired dining inside the Riverside Hot Springs Inn, offering prime steak, fresh seafood, Idaho wines, and seasonal cocktails.
• Eruption Brewery & Bistro: A lively downtown craft brewery serving wood-fired pizza and rotating local beers; a favorite post-soak casual spot in Lava Hot Springs.
• Riverwalk Thai Restaurant: Excellent authentic Thai cuisine in a relaxed setting near the hot pools; one of the most consistently praised restaurants in town.
• Lava Waffle: A beloved breakfast institution serving creative gourmet waffles all day in the heart of downtown, perfect before or after a morning soak.
• The Royal Hotel & Pizzeria: Hand-tossed pizza, calzones, pasta, and beers on tap in a family-friendly setting with delivery available throughout town.

Hotels Near Lava Hot Springs:

• Home Hotel: A boutique property with in-suite mineral water soaking tubs and designer finishes inside a renovated historic bank building in downtown Lava.
• Alpaca Inn: A newly renovated mid-range inn two blocks from the hot pools, complete with a garden courtyard, BBQ grill, and warm Idaho hospitality.
• Riverside Hot Springs Inn & Spa: A downtown landmark offering private soaking pools, on-site spa services, and the acclaimed Portneuf Grille restaurant.
• Lava Hot Springs Inn: Located at 94 North Center Street, offering comfortable rooms and natural mineral hot spring pools open to both guests and day visitors.
• Cobblestone Inn & Suites (Soda Springs): About 20 miles away, offering complimentary breakfast, clean comfortable rooms, and consistently excellent guest reviews.

Cabins Near Lava Hot Springs:

• Bristol Cabins: A 30-year family-run mountain property offering canvas tent cabins, luxury glamping tents, open camping spots, and outdoor hammocks.
• Lava Adventures & Lodging: Vacation rental cabins and full homes available nightly or weekly, including the cozy Candlelight Cottage and the modern Rustic Inn.

Final Thoughts

Lava Hot Springs is truly one of Idaho’s most peaceful and rewarding natural escapes. From the crystal-clear mineral pools and year-round geothermal soaking to the thrilling river tubing and charming small-town dining, every detail makes this destination special. 

Whether you visit for a day soak or an extended cabin stay, Lava Hot Springs never disappoints. Plan your trip early, confirm construction updates, and get ready for an unforgettable Idaho experience.

FAQs

Q. Is Lava Hot Springs worth visiting? 

Absolutely. The crystal-clear, odorless pools ranging from 102°F to 112°F, the stunning Idaho valley setting, and the welcoming small-town atmosphere create an experience that keeps guests returning year after year.

Q. Are dogs allowed at Lava Hot Springs? 

No. Pets are not permitted anywhere at the pool facilities. Only officially documented service dogs accompanying a verified guest are allowed; emotional support and therapy animals are not permitted.

Q. What minerals are in Lava Hot Springs water? 

The water contains bicarbonate (534 mg/l), sodium (160 mg/l), chloride (170 mg/l), calcium (98 mg/l), and magnesium (31 mg/l), with no sulfur — meaning fresh air and sparkling, odorless mineral water.

Q. Which nearby town is closest to Lava Hot Springs? 

Pocatello is the nearest major city at approximately 35 miles, offering hotels, restaurants, and a regional airport. Soda Springs is the closest smaller town, roughly 20 miles from the hot pools.

Q. Is the hottest pool open in 2026? 

As of early 2026, the hottest pool is still under construction and expected to reopen around May or June 2026. The remaining four outdoor hot pools are fully open on their regular year-round schedule.