Unique Things to Do in Idaho – Swim & Soak at Nat-Soo-Pah

Located in the southern reaches of the state, near Hollister and just a short drive south of Twin Falls, Nat-Soo-Pah has a legacy of welcoming families, travelers, and local folks alike. With a large spring-fed pool, a waterslide, hot soak options, and a convenient campground, the resort offers an affordable, family-friendly way to enjoy Idaho’s mineral-rich waters.

A Historic Name & Scenic Surroundings

While driving along U.S. Highway 93, the landscape shifts between farmland, rolling hills, and wide-open vistas. Tucked away in this high desert environment is Nat-Soo-Pah, an off-the-radar destination that traces its name back to Native American roots. “Nat-Soo-Pah” translates to “Magic Mineral Water,” reflecting the Shoshone tribes’ earlier use of these springs for bathing and healing.

The property is surrounded by sagebrush plains and foothills, setting a scene that’s peaceful yet open. On cool mornings, early visitors might see steam wafting from the main pool. In the distance, mountains stand as a reminder that southern Idaho, though often overshadowed by the state’s northern peaks, has its own distinct desert-mountain charm. From spring through summer and into early fall, warm sunshine bathes the pool areas, while the cooler winter months lend a quieter vibe if the resort is open for off-season events.

Mineral Water for Family Fun

The heart of Nat-Soo-Pah is its large swimming pool, measuring an impressive 125 feet by 50 feet. This pool is fed by a geothermal source around 99 or 100 degrees Fahrenheit. That warm, consistent temperature sets it apart from ordinary swimming facilities, as swimmers enjoy the soothing effect of hot spring water while still being active. The pool typically hovers around the mid-to-upper 90s, making it comfortable for extended play, even for younger kids not used to super-hot water.

Alongside the main pool, the resort features a smaller hot tub and a hot soak pool. The latter can exceed 100 degrees, often landing between 104 and 106 degrees Fahrenheit for those seeking an intense soak. Families love the ability to shift between mild and hot pools as they please—parents might relax in the soak pool while older kids splash in the bigger pool. That said, caution is always advised: immersing in water above 104 degrees calls for moderation and awareness of your health limits.

Much like other Idaho hot springs resorts, Nat-Soo-Pah harnesses a “flow-through” concept, meaning water consistently refreshes the pools, ensuring a natural experience. However, some chlorine or chemical treatment is still used to maintain safety in the main pool, especially given that it sees numerous swimmers each day. The unique mineral profile remains a draw for many, who find the water’s composition beneficial for relaxation or easing minor aches.

Water Slides, Diving Boards, & More

At Nat-Soo-Pah, it’s not just about soaking quietly. A 90-foot-long water slide adds an element of excitement for those who enjoy a quick adrenaline rush before landing in the warm pool. Younger visitors (and some enthusiastic grown-ups) line up for multiple runs, each time whooshing down the curving chute. Meanwhile, two diving boards—one on each side of the pool—allow more confident swimmers to practice flips or simple jumps, creating a dynamic atmosphere around the main swimming area.

The resort also offers a small basketball area and a game room. Families can break from the water and enjoy a snack while discussing who got the best diving score. On warm weekends, these side attractions can fill with laughter and mild competition, reflecting the property’s casual, welcoming spirit.

Camping & RV Spaces

To let guests linger longer, Nat-Soo-Pah provides camping and RV sites—an amenity that transforms a day trip into a mini-vacation. The tent area is grassy and shaded, making it comfortable for families or couples who enjoy sleeping under the stars. Meanwhile, 29 full hookup sites serve those with motorhomes or travel trailers, complete with an on-site RV dump station. Should you bring your furry friend, the campsite is generally pet-friendly (though pets aren’t allowed around the pools).

Many campers relish the convenience of hopping in and out of the hot spring pool morning, afternoon, and night. Kids might wake early to sneak in a quiet swim, then spend mid-day riding the water slide or diving off the boards, finishing with an evening soak to wind down. Meanwhile, parents appreciate how short the walk is from the campground to all the fun. The synergy of campsite plus hot springs fosters a laid-back, communal spirit where you can chat with neighbors or share a grill session under Idaho’s big skies.

Snack Bar & Family Gatherings

Between the watery amusements, visitors often pause at the on-site snack bar. Typical fare includes items like burgers, fries, and cold drinks—basic but sufficient for an afternoon break. Some might prefer bringing a picnic lunch or small cooler. The resort has a few rules about glass containers and outside food near the pools, so a designated picnic spot can ensure you don’t encroach on official guidelines.

Groups of friends or extended families sometimes rent a separate space or set up chairs in a common area. Though Nat-Soo-Pah doesn’t heavily advertise formal event packages, it can accommodate gatherings of modest sizes, like birthday parties, school outings, or youth groups. Lifeguards are on duty for general oversight, but larger groups should coordinate in advance to figure out parking, meal logistics, and the best times to avoid crowd bottlenecks.

Seasonal Tips & Hours

As one of the most unique things to do in Idaho, Nat-Soo-Pah generally operates in the warmer months, from spring through early fall. Specific opening and closing dates can vary based on weather, maintenance, or improvements. The pool’s official daily hours might shift slightly year to year, so it’s wise to check the resort’s website or social media for up-to-date info. Because the facility is open for general admission rather than time slots, lines may form for the slide on weekends. Locals often suggest visiting midweek if your schedule allows, letting you enjoy more space and fewer waits for diving boards or water slides.

In the event you’re planning a short detour on a bigger trip through southern Idaho, remember that Nat-Soo-Pah is about 16 miles south of Twin Falls, near Hollister. This position puts it within easy reach if you’re driving north-south along U.S. 93 or coming from I-84. The property also stands near interesting desert plateaus and farmland, so those interested in southwestern Idaho’s geology or agriculture might find it rewarding to tour the area before or after a soak.

Why Nat-Soo-Pah Is Worth the Trip

Plenty of hot spring facilities across Idaho focus on quiet soaks, while others target big aquatic thrills. Nat-Soo-Pah strikes a balance, letting you float in mineral water one moment and zip down a water slide the next. The old-fashioned vibe of this resort, paired with updated features like the hot soak pool and kids’ diving boards, fosters a sense of nostalgia for simpler family outings. People of all ages can jump right in, from toddlers wading in warm shallows to seniors relaxing in the spa. Meanwhile, the campsite and RV park turn a one-day outing into a longer adventure.

If you appreciate a casual environment over elaborate modern luxury, Nat-Soo-Pah’s affordability and cheerful spirit might be just what you need. It’s the kind of place where neighbors chat, lifeguards keep watch with a smile, and families share grill space without fuss. Over the decades, this haven has guided generations of Idahoans and travelers alike through hot desert summers, urging them to cool off or warm up in “magic mineral water.” The name itself—best translated as “Magic Mineral Water”—reminds you that the day is supposed to be about fun, healing, and a bit of wonder.

Swim & Soak at Nat-Soo-Pah – Unique Things to Do in Idaho

Idaho’s southwestern region might seem like a place of wide fields and high desert, but Nat-Soo-Pah reveals a spot where spring-fed pools, slippery slides, and mineral warmth converge to create a family-oriented playground. Whether you pop in for an afternoon dip or book a few nights in the campsite, you’ll see how the Shoshone once valued these waters—and why modern visitors continue to find them special. The combination of recreational swimming, hot soaking, and a laid-back environment makes it an appealing stop for locals or out-of-state explorers.

So the next time you’re driving U.S. Highway 93 or meandering around Twin Falls, consider a detour to Nat-Soo-Pah. In a single visit, you can experience a bit of Idaho’s geothermal heritage, share laughs on a 90-foot water slide, and close out the day next to a crackling campfire under star-filled skies. Few things blend classic summertime fun and mineral-water relaxation quite like this. When it’s time to move on, you’ll carry with you the memory of an easygoing resort that captures the heart of Idaho’s simpler charms.