Lava Hot Springs Waterpark vs Rexburg Rapids
A side-by-side look at two water parks — rides, prices, amenities, and which one fits your trip.
Which Park Is Right for You?
Quick verdicts based on what each park offers.
Amenities Compared
What each park offers, side by side.
| Feature | Lava Hot Springs Waterpark | Rexburg Rapids |
|---|---|---|
| Parking |
Only at Lava Hot Springs Waterpark
- hot tubs
Only at Rexburg Rapids
- wave pool
- lazy river
- splash pad
- cabana rentals
- food court
- tube rentals
- season passes
Both parks share 1 amenities including Parking.
About Each Park
Lava Hot Springs Waterpark
Idaho
Lava Hot Springs Waterpark combines the thrill of water slides with the unique appeal of natural hot springs in southern Idaho. The park features several water slides that wind down into refreshing pools, plus a dedicated kids area with smaller slides and splash features that work perfectly for families with younger children. What really sets this place apart is the integration with the famous Lava Hot Springs - you can cool off on the slides and then soak in the naturally heated mineral pools that have been drawing visitors to this area for over a century. The park works best for families looking for a more relaxed water park experience rather than adrenaline junkies seeking massive thrill rides. The atmosphere feels more intimate than the giant destination parks, with a small-town charm that makes it easy to keep track of kids. The natural hot springs maintain comfortable temperatures year-round, though the main water park operates seasonally. Get there early during summer weekends since the facility isn't huge and can feel crowded by mid-afternoon. The changing facilities are basic but clean, and you'll want to bring water shoes since the pool decks can get hot. Don't skip the hot springs portion - the mineral water is genuinely therapeutic and feels amazing after a day of swimming. The combination of cooling water slides and warming hot springs creates a unique experience you won't find at typical chlorinated water parks. Food options are limited, so consider packing snacks or planning to eat in…
Read the full Lava Hot Springs Waterpark guide →Rexburg Rapids
Idaho
Rexburg Rapids brings much-needed water fun to eastern Idaho, serving as the region's go-to spot for cooling off during those surprisingly hot summer days. This community-focused outdoor water park keeps things simple but effective, with a solid lineup of tube slides that'll get your heart racing and a dedicated children's area that parents actually appreciate. The wave pool here isn't the biggest you'll find, but it does the job for families looking to bob around together. What I really like about Rexburg Rapids is how it feels genuinely local – you're not dealing with massive crowds or corporate theme park prices. The lazy river winds around most of the park and moves at the perfect pace for floating with a drink in hand. Kids gravitate toward the splash zone with its colorful water features and smaller slides designed for the under-10 crowd. The food situation is standard water park fare – think nachos, burgers, and overpriced drinks – but the portions are decent and the prices won't completely destroy your budget. Since this is Idaho and the season is shorter than southern parks, Rexburg Rapids makes the most of summer with extended hours during peak season. The park works best for families with kids ranging from toddlers to teenagers, though thrill-seekers might want something with more intense slides. Get there early on weekends if you want to snag one of the limited cabana spots, and definitely bring your own sunscreen since the Idaho sun hits harder than you'd expect. The…
Read the full Rexburg Rapids guide →Ready to visit Lava Hot Springs Waterpark?