Top 20 things to do and attractions in Lava Hot Springs

Lot of fun for the family. We enjoyed the slides and the high dives. The kids were occupied having fun all day long!

This adventure company gets everything right! When we first called to make a reservation, we were the only couple, and they didn’t know if there would be enough people to offer the Zip Line adventure. It was pre-season, and we knew that this could happen. However, a few days later, they called us back to let us know that there were enough people, and we booked the Zip Line & Rope Course. In Lava Hot Springs, they showed up in a giant Army truck to pick everyone up. There were a couple of single parents with kids, a few young-ish adults and us (50-something). Every activity was explained very well before we started. The staff were super nice to everyone, and we were told that we’re all one big adventure family for the day. Everyone was kind and respectful, which is not something you can take for granted anymore. There were two zip lines, and everyone got to go twice. As first-timers, we were just absolutely thrilled with the experience. Next, we had the option to do the ninja obstacle course on multiple levels. If you’ve ever watched any obstacle course shows on TV, you get the idea. We walked on ropes, balanced on narrow beams and climbed up and down to get through all kinds of obstacles. Just to make sure: safety was the main concern of the staff (followed closely by “having fun”), and everyone learned how to get around safely. And then they fired up a monster contraption that raised a platform about 60 feet above ground. This was a bonus bungee jump activity for those who were interested, they said. Absolutely everyone did it, and by this time, it was absolutely clear that these guys just wanted everyone to have fun. We did a few more things, but I don’t want to give it all away. All I can say is that we got more than our money’s worth. And we’ll definitely be back.

This museum was so cool. I highly recommend doing the scavenger hunt! It makes it so much more interactive and I noticed so many little details. It was a small museum but they used the space so well and there is so much to see! I would definitely go back!

This is a very cool area next to the Lava Hotsprings pools. The garden seems like an enchanted area with the caves, the river, and the terraced landscape It's quaint and unique and a great place to see if in the area! As always, leave no trace, leave it better than you found it, and enjoy 😉.

We had a great experience here. I called earlier in the week and they had a spot that I was able to book for our 35’ trailer with a slide out. It was spot #85 and has a flat concrete pad with patio, and a little grassy section. It was between two tiny cabins and was a nice little spot, especially for a last minute reservation. They had a bunch of great pull through spots that were nice as well, and if we come back I’ll book one of those. The campground was very updated and clean. Lots of great spots for every kind of camping. I also liked that it wasn’t right in town and didn’t feel so busy, but it was still close to the main town and restaurants.

Amazing meal! The seafood chowder was absolutely delicious! We had the rack of lamb and roast. So delicious! Glad we had live music and staff was entertaining. Definitely need reservations and don't try to sit on the patio when the cotton trees are releasing fluff - it gets everywhere.

This park definitely needed these upgrades with how big the crowds have been getting—things were starting to get out of control. It’s great to see Lava reinvesting into the community. Especially with the new tax increase on all the tourists, they should be able to make these improvements now. The next big fix should be widening the bridge so tubers can safely walk across without worrying about vehicles. That would make a huge difference!

Lava Hot Springs Foundation – A Sacred Balance Between Healing, Fun, and Flow Lava Hot Springs isn’t just a place — it’s an energy. And the Lava Hot Springs Foundation? They’ve done a phenomenal job of protecting, preserving, and sharing that energy with the world in a way that feels both rooted and progressive. From the moment you step into the mineral-rich pools — naturally odorless and constantly refreshed by the earth itself — you can feel the shift. It’s like the land remembers how to heal you before you even ask. The Foundation operates with no taxpayer funding — it’s entirely sustained by those who choose to soak, swim, or splash. That matters. It shows a commitment to balance: ecological, economic, and communal. You get the sense they’re not just running a business; they’re tending a fire. They’ve created something that honors the natural gifts of the land without over-commercializing them — and that’s rare these days. The facilities are incredibly well-maintained. You’ve got the classic hot pools (always clean and not too crowded if you go at the right times), but also a full-blown aquatic complex with waterslides, an Olympic pool, kiddie sections, and green park areas that invite families, elders, and solo travelers alike. It’s one of those places where everyone can find their rhythm — whether you’re there to soak in silence or cannonball into laughter. And the upgrades? Thoughtful. Strategic. They’re not just building for tourism; they’re building for legacy. Long-term projects like improved parking, enhanced accessibility, and even discussions about geothermal sustainability show that this isn’t a quick-turn operation. It’s a generational offering — for Idaho and for anyone seeking deeper connection with water, heat, and land. I respect how transparent they are too. Board meetings are open. Plans are published. It’s not hidden behind some bureaucracy. That kind of openness builds trust — and it’s exactly the kind of foundation that deserves ongoing community support. If you’ve never been, go. And if you’ve been before, go again — but this time, slow down. Let the waters speak. Let the steam remind you that healing isn’t always dramatic — sometimes it’s as simple as soaking, breathing, and remembering who you are.

Inviting staff! We ate here simply because of how friendly the staff was. They made our large group feel welcome and provided a great atmosphere as we were there. Hamburgers were great the French dip sliders were amazing and kids loved the Mac and cheese.

Pricy, but this is understandable with the nature of the gemstones sold here. I loved the soothing stones and all the bonsai trees. Great little shop to stop by when you’re in Lava. Staff are friendly

Had a great experience! I am a very inexperienced horse rider and felt comfortable with our guides and horses (even though we went up and down some steep inclines and declines). All the handlers were incredibly nice and provided a lot of good information and answered all our questions, as well as personable conversation during the ride. The area they take you through is gorgeous and picturesque, if your visiting ID definitely a cool way to see scenic areas through an experience instead of necessarily hiking or driving. It’s a great combo to go horseback riding and finish at the hot spring foundation!

Perfect place in Lava by the river. Includes pavilions, restrooms, toys, and nature paths. Reservations take priority.

They had pavilions that you can reserve for events. They have a fence on the river edge which is nice for kids. Also you can see the river and a natural hot pot from the edge.

Not much here for a park. Always mowed, cleaned and maintained grassy spot to picnic and let the kids run around

I've been going to Stacey regularly for the last 6 months or so. She's a real life wizard. I've suffered with back pain for over 20 years and Rheumatoid arthritus for the last 10. She knows exactly how to find and treat those sore muscles and joints. My quality of life has improved so much since I started going to her I can't recommend her enough. Give her a call and make an appointment. Your body will thank you!

Had a great time golfing today. Nice to come after the holiday. Joe was very friendly and did a great job!

I went to the town for the hot spring, but I didn't expect I would be able to create such a memorable experience with my friends. Who would have expected we would have so much fun at a children placeground, in Idaho

This Gallery is a hidden gem, A must see! Such a diverse collection of art from Local artists.