Lava Hot Springs is known for its soothing geothermal pools, but fun, family-friendly activities don’t stop when you step out of the water. For families looking to explore, play, and make meaningful memories together, this small Idaho town has surprises that go far beyond a relaxing soak.
From river tubing and water slides to parks, quirky shops, and scenic day trips, there’s no shortage of family-friendly activities to keep everyone engaged. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers, teens, or somewhere in between, you’ll find Lava Hot Springs activities that match your pace and your interests.
In this guide, we’ll highlight the best ways to enjoy Lava Hot Springs as a family, from outdoor adventures to quiet moments in Lava Hot Springs rooms and everything in between. It’s time to plan a trip that’s fun, flexible, and full of connection.
Tubing the Portneuf River
Of all the Lava Hot Springs activities you could enjoy, tubing the Portneuf River has to be at the top of your list. The Portneuf River delivers the perfect balance of fun and adventure.
Winding right through the heart of Lava Hot Springs, this river becomes a natural playground in the warmer months — ideal for tubing, splashing, and making lasting memories together.
Tubing the Portneuf is one of the most popular family-friendly activities in town. You can rent tubes, life jackets, and river shoes from local shops, many of which are within walking distance of downtown. Most rentals include shuttle service back to your starting point, making it easy to keep the fun going without the hassle.
The ride ranges from gentle floats to exciting little rapids, depending on the season and water level. Kids who are confident swimmers will love the thrill, and parents will appreciate how easy it is to tailor the experience to their comfort level. Younger children can float tandem with an adult or enjoy calmer stretches of the river near shore.
Safety tip: Always wear a life jacket, bring sunscreen, and ask rental staff about river conditions. And don't forget dry clothes — half the fun is getting soaked.
Olympic Swimming Complex
While the geothermal pools get most of the attention, the Olympic Swimming Complex adds a whole new level of family fun in Lava Hot Springs. A short walk from downtown and many hotels, this water park is perfect for kids, teens, and anyone looking to burn off some energy between soaks.
In the summer, the outdoor portion of the complex comes alive with diving platforms, racing lanes, and twisting water slides that keep kids entertained for hours.
There's also a splash pad and shallow play areas for younger children, so even toddlers can enjoy the water safely. Families usually bring snacks, grab lunch at the concession stand, or spread out on the grassy lawn for a mid-day break.
When the weather cools down, the action doesn’t stop. The indoor aquatic center stays open year-round, offering a large warm pool, slides, and a climbing wall, making it a reliable option even when the forecast doesn’t cooperate.
Whether you're visiting for the day or staying for the week, the Olympic Swimming Complex is more than a place to swim; it’s where you can make endless family memories. It’s active, affordable, and always a hit with kids of all ages.
Parks, playgrounds, and picnics
Sometimes the simplest moments become the most memorable, like an afternoon at the park with snacks, sunshine, and plenty of space to roam. Lava Hot Springs has several family-friendly green spaces where kids play freely and parents breathe between activities.
The Lava Hot Springs City Park is a local favorite, especially for families with younger children. It’s clean, shaded, and right near downtown, making it easy to pop in after breakfast or between pool visits.
The playground features swings, climbing equipment, and soft grass for impromptu games of tag or frisbee. Picnic tables and benches are scattered throughout, making sitting back and enjoying the fresh mountain air easy.
This park also hosts local events during the summer, from outdoor concerts to small-town festivals. Even when nothing’s on the calendar, it’s a relaxing place to unwind and let kids burn off steam.
Pack a picnic or grab takeout from a nearby café, spread out a blanket, and enjoy some screen-free family time. With no itinerary and no rush, this kind of low-key downtime often becomes a favorite part of the trip.
Local shops and family-friendly treats
Exploring Lava Hot Springs with kids isn’t limited to pools and parks. Downtown offers a little adventure of its own. This walkable, charming stretch of Main Street has locally owned shops and sweet spots perfect for a laid-back afternoon with the whole family.
Start with a stop at one of the old-fashioned candy stores, where kids can fill a small bag with their favorite treats — gummy worms, taffy, and chocolate-covered everything. An ice cream shop also hits the spot on hot summer days (or after a soak). Many shops offer outdoor seating, so you can snack and relax while watching the town roll by.
Families will also enjoy browsing Lava’s boutique gift shops and souvenir spots. You’ll find everything from handmade crafts and quirky toys to locally themed T-shirts and magnets. Make it fun by letting each child pick out a small keepsake from the trip.
Lava Hot Springs does unhurried exploring best — casual, low pressure, and full of little delights. Whether you’re grabbing a cone or hunting for the perfect souvenir, the downtown shops add a playful, memorable layer to your family getaway.
Day trips and nature escapes
Lava Hot Springs offers plenty to do within walking distance, but it’s also surrounded by scenic day-trip destinations that expand the fun without overcomplicating your plans. Whether you're up for a short drive or want a change of pace, these nearby spots work well for families.
Bear Lake, often called the “Caribbean of the Rockies,” is about an hour’s drive southeast. With clear turquoise water and sandy beaches, it’s perfect for swimming, building sandcastles, or renting paddleboards. Pack a picnic, bring towels, and enjoy a full day at the lake with wide-open skies and room to play.
For something more unique, take a short drive to Soda Springs, home to the world’s only captive geyser. It erupts every hour on the dot — kids love watching it shoot into the air, and parents appreciate the low-key novelty. The area also has a small museum and walking paths for stretching your legs.
If you’re visiting in winter or early spring, Pebble Creek Ski Area is a great option for families with older kids or beginners eager to try skiing or snowboarding. It's small, friendly, and less intimidating than large resorts, making it ideal for first-timers.
These quick escapes are easy to add to your Lava Hot Springs stay. They offer new scenery, fresh air, and a bit of adventure that the whole family will enjoy.
Tips for family-friendly lodging
Where you stay can make or break a family trip — and in Lava Hot Springs, the right accommodations help keep things smooth, flexible, and fun for everyone.
Start by looking for a Lava Hot Springs room with multiple beds or flexible sleeping arrangements. Whether it’s a suite with a pullout sofa or adjoining rooms, having enough space makes a big difference, especially when kids need naps or downtime between activities.
Location matters, too. Staying within walking distance of the hot pools, city park, and downtown shops means less driving, fewer meltdowns, and more spontaneous fun. Taking breaks when needed and returning later without disrupting the day is easy.
Many Lava Hot Springs rooms offer extra touches families appreciate — mini fridges, in-room soaking tubs, or patio spaces for parents to relax once the kids are asleep. Some hotels even feature soaking access, letting you unwind steps from your room.
Because Lava is a popular weekend and holiday destination, you’ll want to book early, especially in summer or over long weekends. Planning ahead gives you more options, better rates, and peace of mind knowing you’ll have a clean, comfortable place to recharge after a day full of fun.
Plan your family’s next adventure in Lava Hot Springs at The Home Hotel
There’s no better place to explore family-friendly activities and unwind together than Lava Hot Springs. Whether you’re tubing the river, splashing at the Olympic Swimming Complex, or strolling through downtown, the right home base makes all the difference.
At the Home Hotel, you’ll find comfort, space, and easy access to all the top Lava Hot Springs activities — plus rooms designed with families in mind. From walkable convenience to cozy amenities, it’s the kind of stay that keeps your trip running smoothly and stress-free.
Book your family’s stay at the Home Hotel today, and turn every moment in Lava Hot Springs into a memory worth keeping.
