Outdoors NearbyLava Hot Springs (World Famous Hot Pools)
Five outdoor gravel- and rock-bottom pools run by a state foundation in the town of Lava Hot Springs in the Portneuf Valley. The water is not treated. Lava Hot Springs (World Famous Hot Pools) is open to day visitors for a fee.
| Access | Day passes for the public State-run hot pools; walk-in admission, no reservations needed. |
|---|---|
| Type | Developed pools, 5 pools |
| Location | Lava Hot Springs, ID Managed by Lava Hot Springs Foundation (State of Idaho) Directions (approximate location; check the official map) |
| Water | natural spring water, about 102–112 °F, untreated |
| Prices | Ages 12–59: $8.00 (Mon–Thu; $12.00 Fri–Sun and holidays) Ages 3–11 and 60+: $7.50 (Mon–Thu; $10.00 Fri–Sun and holidays) Age 2 and under: $3.00 Wednesday family pass: $26.00 (up to 4 people; $6.50 each additional, up to 6) Checked October 2026 on the operator's site |
| Hours | May 1–Sept 30: 8 am–11 pm. Oct 1–Apr 30: 8 am–10 pm Sun–Thu, 8 am–11 pm Fri–Sat. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day |
| Season | year-round |
| Reservations | not needed |
| Clothing | suits required |
| Ages | children 11 and under must be with an adult |
| Dogs | Not allowed |
| Facilities | changing rooms, suit rental, towel rental |
| Website | lavahotsprings.com |
| Phone | 208-776-5221 |
Best time to soak: Lava Hot Springs (World Famous Hot Pools)
Hot water is most welcome on cold days. From October to April average highs near Lava Hot Springs stay at 32 to 60 °F, with nights down to 14 °F. With lows at 14 to 25 °F from November to March, bring warm layers for getting out of the water.
| Month | High | Low | Rain days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 32 °F | 14 °F | 6 |
| Feb | 37 °F | 17 °F | 5 |
| Mar | 47 °F | 25 °F | 5 |
| Apr | 56 °F | 31 °F | 6 |
| May | 66 °F | 39 °F | 6 |
| Jun | 76 °F | 45 °F | 4 |
| Jul | 87 °F | 51 °F | 2 |
| Aug | 86 °F | 49 °F | 3 |
| Sep | 75 °F | 41 °F | 3 |
| Oct | 60 °F | 32 °F | 4 |
| Nov | 44 °F | 24 °F | 4 |
| Dec | 33 °F | 15 °F | 6 |
Pack for the hot springs
- Earth Pak roll-top waterproof dry bag Keeps your phone, keys and dry clothes safe on wet rocks next to the pool. View on Amazon
- Battery-free floating water thermometer Check a pool before you get in. Natural springs can run hotter than they look. View on Amazon
- Top pick 4Monster quick-dry microfiber towel with case Packs small for the hike to the pools and dries in the car on the way home. View on Amazon
We haven't tested these ourselves; we chose them by size and specs. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Check the current price on Amazon.
Hot springs in the area
- Downata Hot Springs Day pass
- Crystal Hot Springs Day pass
- Astoria Hot Springs Park Day pass
- Green Canyon Hot Springs Day pass
- Granite Hot Springs Pool Day pass
Sources
Access, prices and rules come from these official pages, checked October 2026. Hot springs close for weather, repairs or high water, so confirm before you go.
Something changed? Tell us.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Lava Hot Springs (World Famous Hot Pools) cost?
Ages 12–59: $8.00 (Mon–Thu; $12.00 Fri–Sun and holidays), Ages 3–11 and 60+: $7.50 (Mon–Thu; $10.00 Fri–Sun and holidays) and Age 2 and under: $3.00, according to the operator as of October 2026. Prices change, so check before you go.
How hot is Lava Hot Springs (World Famous Hot Pools)?
Natural spring water, about 102–112 °F, untreated.
Is Lava Hot Springs (World Famous Hot Pools) clothing optional?
No, suits required.
Can you bring dogs to Lava Hot Springs (World Famous Hot Pools)?
No, dogs are not allowed.
When is Lava Hot Springs (World Famous Hot Pools) open?
May 1–Sept 30: 8 am–11 pm. Oct 1–Apr 30: 8 am–10 pm Sun–Thu, 8 am–11 pm Fri–Sat. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. year-round.