December 31, 2024

The Star Plunge aquatic facility at Hot Springs State Park is set to close to the public at the end of this year due to the expiration of its current management agreement. Wyoming State Parks has agreed to extend that expiration by two weeks to allow Star Plunge management additional time to work out a potential sale. Despite the pending closure, the ongoing negotiations create optimism for the future.

"While we face challenges with the Star Plunge, we are excited about the opportunities for revitalization and innovation at Hot Springs State Park," said Nick Neylon, deputy director of Wyoming State Parks. "Our commitment to creating memorable experiences for the community of Thermopolis and its visitors is stronger than ever. We look forward to ushering in a new era of enjoyment for everyone."

A recent court ruling requires that current legal proceedings between C&W Enterprises, which currently operates the Star Plunge, and Wyoming State Parks be resolved before a new operator can take over at this location. A sale to a new operator will resolve those legal proceedings.

Following W.S. 36-4-110(b) and state park regulations, the agency issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) in 2023 to construct and manage new or improved lodging and aquatic facilities at Hot Springs State Park. This included potential options for significant redevelopment at the current Star Plunge and Hot Springs Hotel and Spa sites. The RFP was open to all interested parties, including current managers. Wyoming Hot Springs LLC, the current owner/operator of the TePee Pool aquatic facility, was awarded the bid through this process; however, the project is currently on hold pending the outcome of legal processes with current Star Plunge management.

While the timeline for negotiations and resolving current legal proceedings remains uncertain, the community is encouraged to stay engaged and informed about any updates regarding the facility's reopening.

"We are dedicated to updating the public on the status of the Star Plunge facility and aim to resolve this situation as quickly as possible. The State Bath House and other aquatic facilities will remain open as usual. We appreciate your patience during this process and encourage people to enjoy all Hot Springs State Park has to offer," said Brooks Jordan, district manager of Wyoming State Parks' Big Horn District.

For the latest updates, please visit Hot Springs State Park's website or follow them on Facebook at @hotspringsstatepark. You can also view frequently asked questions at bit.ly/HotSpringsRFP. 

Thank you for your continued support of Hot Springs State Park.

  

December 23, 2024

The Southeast Wyoming Outdoor Recreation Collaborative (SWORC) and local and state partners are excited to announce the approval of the Ehlin winter parking area pilot project near Highway 130. The U.S. Forest Service has authorized this important initiative for winter recreation in the region, and it will be implemented as a demonstration project over the next three years.

"We are thrilled that the Forest Service has approved the winter parking pilot project. This initiative is a testament to the incredible support from our partners and the local communities who cherish outdoor recreation in the region," said Josh Milek, program support and contracts manager for the Wyoming Trails Program. "Together, we are enhancing access and ensuring everyone can enjoy the beautiful winter landscape of southeast Wyoming."

This pilot project aims to provide an alternative parking area for winter recreationists, thereby enhancing access and improving the user experience. The approved parking facility is located directly across from the Centennial Visitor Center and is open to all winter recreational users, including snowmobilers, skiers, and other outdoor enthusiasts.

In collaboration with the Snowy Range Snowmobile Club, U.S. Forest Service, Wyoming Office of Outdoor Recreation, and Wyoming Trails Program, the project will feature essential services such as snow removal, improved signage to guide users safely, and a new web camera installed at the parking area. Recreationists can view the web camera feed at wyoparks.wyo.gov/index.php/home-trails.

The partners in this pilot project aim to demonstrate that the newly designated parking area effectively serves the winter recreational community. Feedback from initial public meetings held in August indicated strong support for this initiative, emphasizing the need for improved facilities for winter outdoor activities.

SWORC is a grassroots initiative facilitated by the Wyoming Office of Outdoor Recreation that brings together local community members, stakeholders, federal and state agencies, and other non-governmental organizations to support sustainable outdoor recreation growth and enhancements in Albany, Carbon, and Laramie counties.

Learn more about Wyoming's outdoor recreation collaboratives, Office of Outdoor Recreation, and Trails Program at wyospcr.wyo.gov.

 

December 17, 2024

Wyoming State Parks is proud to announce that the National Association for Interpretation (NAI) has selected Shoshone District Interpretive Ranger Angelina Stancampiano to be honored with the prestigious Distinguished Front-Line Interpreter Award.

This recognition is awarded to up to one NAI member a year who has worked in the field of interpretation for at least five years, with at least 60 percent of their current duties dedicated to front-line interpretation. Awardees must demonstrate exceptional mastery of interpretive techniques, program development, and innovative project design.

Since joining Wyoming State Parks in 2021, Stancampiano has revolutionized interpretive programming within the Shoshone District in southwest Wyoming. Her work has revitalized existing programs and introduced innovative initiatives that have significantly impacted the local communities and beyond.

Stancampiano's leadership in partnering with local, state, and national organizations has allowed her to create innovative programs that expand access to the outdoors. Among her most notable contributions is her role as Wyoming Ambassador for Women Who Hike, a national organization focused on creating a supportive community for women interested in outdoor recreation. Through this partnership, Stancampiano has organized a series of campouts across Wyoming State Parks and Historic Sites, providing women with opportunities to learn about outdoor skills and engage with the state's rich natural heritage.

"Angelina's passion for outdoor education and her ability to create meaningful connections with participants is truly inspiring," said Kyle Bernis, district manager of Wyoming State Parks' Shoshone District. "Her programs have profoundly impacted the lives of many."

In addition to her work with Women Who Hike, Stancampiano has been instrumental in developing the Latino Outdoors interpretive programs. 

Stancampiano's dedication to advancing interpretive education extends beyond her programming efforts. She strongly advocates for continuing education and professional development, leading programs such as Leave No Trace, Certified Interpretive Guide, and Project Learning Tree.

The Distinguished Front-Line Interpreter Award highlights the impactful work of professionals like Stancampiano, who dedicate their time and efforts to creating meaningful and lasting experiences for all who visit our public lands. The award was presented at the December 5, 2024,  national conference in St. Augustine, Florida.

The NAI is a professional organization dedicated to advancing the profession of interpretation. NAI provides resources, networking opportunities, and professional development to interpreters nationwide who work in parks, museums, zoos, nature centers, and historical sites.

Learn more about Wyoming State Parks' interpretive programs at wyoparks.wyo.gov. 

November 20, 2024

Wyoming State Parks is joining park systems across the country in encouraging families to choose to 'Opt Outside' as an alternative to Black Friday shopping. 

Wyoming State Parks is offering free entry into all state parks and historic sites on Friday, November 29. 

The 7th annual 'Opt Outside' is a day for all to get outside, give thanks, and spend time in nature. 

For more information or related events, please visit wyoparks.wyo.gov