Edge Water Lava Hot Springs

The campground is almost empty during this low-season visit, and it seems nice enough. The restrooms are very clean. I asked for a late checkout and was told it would cost $20, which really surprised me with so few people around. That lack of flexibility was disappointing, and I don’t think we’ll return.

I only realized after booking that linens were extra or something we had to bring ourselves. It cost nearly $200, and when I called that same day to ask about canceling, they said cancellations had to be made 14 days ahead. I was also told it was refundable for California residents. I feel cheated. This is a horrible way to do business.

The beds in the new two-bedroom cabin were much more comfortable than the ones in the deluxe cabins, and the staff were kind, friendly, and helpful. Still, at about $300 for a weeknight, the value didn’t feel there, and we won’t stay again. The futon was very uncomfortable, with uneven padding and a big dip where your hip goes. We’d stayed in the deluxe one-bedroom cabins before, so we hoped the new place would be similar. When we booked in early summer for July, there were no cabin photos available, only a floor plan. I called to request photos and was told they couldn’t send any. On arrival, the cabins were much closer together than I expected. There’s no barrier from your neighbor, so there’s little privacy if both groups are outside. Some plants might create more separation as they grow. The cabin wasn’t very clean: there were ants, insects in the tub, and lots of dust, which made me question how thoroughly it’s cleaned between guests. The bathroom had no hand soap, trash can, or paper towels, unlike the deluxe cabins. It did have a small bottle of dish soap. The office confirmed those other supplies aren’t included in the new cabins, though they did try to help by bringing us a small trash can, a roll of paper towels, and an extra toilet paper roll.

All I can say about this place is that they quoted us $271 for a cabin and expected us to bring our own linens. The photos make it look like linens are provided on the beds. That price was for a Sunday. On the phone, I was told Lava Hot Springs is a big tourist attraction. We ended up at lava Lake Camp on the east side of town. It’s a lovely campground with nice retro trailers inside, for about $120.