It’s no secret that hot springs are great for soothing your soul, but there are natural hot springs in Idaho that are quickly becoming world famous for their healing powers, both physical and mental. Lava Hot Springs is a tiny community in southeastern Idaho named after the aforementioned springs. These springs are locally renowned for their healing abilities and the small resort town attracts visitors throughout the year who come from all over to take a dip in these magic waters.

It was the Bannock-Shoshone Native Americans who originally inhabited the land and believed that the natural hot springs contained curative properties.
Lava Hot Springs - World Famous Hot Springs/Facebook
The Lava Hot Springs were originally known as "Poha-Ba" or "Land of Healing Waters" by the Shoshone-Bannock tribe.
Lava Hot Springs/TripAdvisor
The land was initially considered to be shared land between the Native Americans and the U.S. government in the late 1800s.
It has been recorded that the hot springs were considered a gathering place for several nomadic tribes, including Utes, Paiutes, Cheyenne, and the Flathead tribes. The Shoshone-Bannock people were the ones who mainly lived in the area.
John B/TripAdvisor
These native tribes used the natural mineral water and mud baths for healing purposes.
Today, the springs take the form of five man-made pools ranging in temperature from 102 to 112 degrees Fahrenheit.
Lava Hot Springs - World Famous Hot Springs/Facebook
The pools are constantly being refreshed with new water since 2.5 million gallons make their way through the pools before draining out into the Portneuf River.

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The pools are set among a beautiful sunken garden which highlights both native and imported plant species all year long.
Lava Hot Springs - World Famous Hot Springs/Facebook
It's hard to imagine a more relaxing setting than this! It's no wonder the small community of approximately 500 people swells to about 15,000 during its tourist season.
Lava Hot Springs - World Famous Hot Springs/Facebook
The hot springs are full of the purest mineral water, containing a variety of different minerals that are chock full of health benefits.
stazi0ne/TripAdvisor
However, sulfur is not present in these waters .... which means no odor!
This is definitely one of the best places in Idaho to just sit back and relax. Even if you don't have any physical maladies in need of being cured, the soak is sure to refresh your mind and rejuvenate the soul!
Lava Hot Springs - World Famous Hot Springs/Facebook

Have you been to Lava Hot Springs? What was your experience like? Let us and your fellow travelers know in the comments. You can also learn more about Lava Hot Springs, including hours and rates, on the Lava Hot Springs website. Check out the Lava Hot Springs Facebook page for additional news and updates as well.

While Lava Hot Springs is a delightful day trip destination, make it an overnight getaway! Check out this unique campground with 1960s retro campers you can reserve. You may also want to check out a local vacation rental as well.

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Lava Hot Springs In Idaho

Courtnie Erickson | January 24, 2024

What are some things I should know about Lava Hot Springs?

If you are searching for fabulous hot springs in Idaho to visit, Lava Hot Springs is an excellent choice. These hot springs are perfect for soaking away life’s worries and can be a delightful day trip or even a weekend adventure. Before you visit Lava, keep the following things in mind:

  • You can enjoy three areas: the Indoor Aquatic Center, Olympic Swimming Complex, and Hot Springs Complex. The Olympic Swimming Complex is outdoors and seasonal. The other areas are open year-round.
  • At the Hot Springs Complex, there are five separate pools that range in temperature from 102 degrees to 112 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • More than 2.5 million gallons of hot water enter the pools each day.
  • No chlorine or sulphur is added to the water.
  • The hot pools can become quite busy so it is best to plan ahead and avoid weekends and holidays.
  • There are many places to stay in the area including several vacation rentals and campgrounds.

 

Where are some other bucket-list-worthy destinations in Idaho?

Lava Hot Springs is just the beginning of the incredible places to explore in Idaho. From dozens of hot springs in Idaho to state parks to natural wonders, there are some incredible places for an adventure. The following are just a few bucket-list-worthy destinations to check out in Idaho:

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Lava Hot Springs, ID 83246, USA