I wish I could have done a reality photo of what we walked into. The price was great! Check in was fast. But DO NOT open that door to enter the crater before the gate keeper comes and gets you.. we followed some people in 3 min till our float and a man walked up to us, super rude and said what are you doing? You aren’t allowed in here until I get you. We quickly apologized, he turned his back from us and walked away.
He checked us in, told us the rules and we got in. There was a smaller group of 6 of us floating. It was peaceful… for about 10 minutes until ALL of the scuba people came in. And when I say people it was around 20. The crater is large but with tons of people it is not peaceful or relaxing. Their voices echo loudly and they are all running around getting their gear on. The hall was packed. We ended up getting out early before our 40 min was up because it was so overwhelming.
Was this a cool place, yes. Would I do it again? No. For kids maybe it was cool. But if you want a relaxing experience like the photos online, this isn’t it.
Oct 2021 Fall.
Drive past the camp ground area all the way to the end of the road to the day use area. Hike to the springs is easy and short.
The hot springs are HOT HOT but the ones down by the river are perfect (still hot). The view is absolutely amazing and worth it. Make sure to check out the tub/shack. Be careful of the hot water pipe in the tube it’s very hot and will burn you.
Go here in the fall or early spring to avoid a bunch of people. There’s a lot of pools and they are good size though.
100% worth it and will be back.
Entrance fee for day or camping pass. Beautiful drive up the the park.
Note: If you’ve been in any caves before these they won’t let you into these caves because of the bats and bringing in certain stuff in your stores.
Bathrooms available. Water is turned off in October so can’t fill up. The walking areas are paved on the lava areas. If you want to go into the caves it’s all hiking and climbing at your own risk. Bring a head lamp. Won’t be able to take strollers or anything into caves. Bring good shoes too. They aren’t long hikes through the caves but do take some work getting through. They were worth it.
No smoking anywhere please.
Easier guided small hike into the caves. $12/per person for a 45 min tour. The guide and store was knowledgeable. We enjoyed this shorter tour. Gift shop was neat. Porta potty outside.
Right next to the freeway. Easy short walk. The views were beautiful. Bathrooms were very clear. $7 entry fee