Lava Spa Motel & RV Park

The rooms are dated, but the attentive care, great location, and fair price make up for that. If you’re after luxury, this probably isn’t the place. If you want people to take good care of you, it is. Gaston at the front desk went out of his way to meet my needs, and the dedicated housekeeping team’s cheerful attitude rubs off on you. I’d stay here again for sure.

The room was pretty basic and old, though it had been updated a little. I booked at the last minute and paid $150. You can’t beat the location, about 300 feet from the springs, bar, and restaurants. The people were nice, too. I’d stay again.

The river was the surprise that made us extend our stay. After we found the RV park, we were initially put off by a gravel lot with around 15 full-hookup spots and nobody there. Then we got out and saw the Portneuf River right at the site. Watching people float by, holler, and have fun was wonderful. A local told us about the free hot springs, reached by climbing down a short, steep hill using a rope. Everything was walkable, and the area was beautiful. Staff were barely around, which was a nice change. The weekend parties were the downside. People had big speakers on tripods and karaoke going until 11:30 p.m. With our windows shut, we had the TV at volume 85 and could still hear them inside. After ten great days, that happened. We’d first thought about staying longer, so I’m glad we didn’t. Still, it’s a great spot, and the river at night was incredible when we could leave the windows open.

Lava is a beautiful place to visit, and the RV area is one of our favorite trips. We stay there every year, sometimes bringing enough people to fill the rooms. The staff are great and easy to work with. I really can’t say enough good things about it.