Wyoming State Parks, Historic Sites, & Trails

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Hot Springs State Park

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About Our Site - Hot Springs State Park

Over colorful terraces along the Big Horn River at Thermopolis flows water from mineral hot springs. More than 1.8 million gallons flow over the terrace every 24 hours at a constant temperature of 128 degrees Fahrenheit. The park has a free bath house where the water is maintained at 104 degrees for therapeutic bathing. Hot Springs has 6.2 miles of universally accessible trails and hiking trails. It is a full-service park with comfort stations, a volksmarch trail, fishing, and a boat ramp. One of the reservable group picnic shelters is located here. Hot Springs is a day-use park.

The Hot Springs State Park bison herd is the central herd for the Wyoming State Parks. During the late fall and winter months, the park bison are fed a daily supplement to insure good health. This feeding usually occurs at 8:30 a.m., giving the off-season visitor the unique opportunity to view the "Monarch of the Plains," up close. Please remember that bison should be viewed ONLY while you remain in your vehicle.

The suspension foot bridge across the Bighorn River is commonly called "The Swinging Bridge." The bridge offers a unique vantage point from which to view the Bighorn River and mineral terrace. Hot Springs State Park has long been known for its beautiful summer flower gardens. Make a point to bring your camera with you and capture the exciting splash of color all summer long.

There are three large group picnic shelters in the park available by reservation. These are very popular and heavily used. Contact park headquarters as soon as you can to reserve a shelter for your event and also, inquire if your group needs a park liquor permit.

Wyoming State Parks Announces Temporary Closure of the Star Plunge at Hot Springs State Park

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Brooks Jordan, 307-431-9921, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Wyoming State Parks Announces Temporary Closure of the Star Plunge at Hot Springs State Park

THERMOPOLIS, Wyo. – January 14, 2025 – Wyoming State Parks announces the temporary closure of the Star Plunge aquatic facility at Hot Springs State Park following a recent two-week management agreement extension and ongoing negotiations for a potential sale to a new operator.

"We appreciate the community's patience during this transitional time. Our main priority is to ensure that the Star Plunge reopens as quickly as possible, providing the quality experience our visitors expect and deserve,” said Nick Neylon, deputy director of Wyoming State Parks.

The facility was scheduled to close at the end of 2024 due to the expiration of its management agreement with C&W Enterprises, operators of the Star Plunge. Wyoming State Parks extended this agreement to maintain public access and was optimistic about continuing aquatic services for the community.

However, a court ruling in December 2024 mandated that any legal disputes between C&W Enterprises and Wyoming State Parks must be settled before a new operator could take over. Without a resolution to that ongoing litigation, or a finalized sale, the closure will proceed as initially planned.

"We understand that this news may be disappointing for our visitors and local community members who cherish the Star Plunge experience," said Brooks Jordan, manager of Wyoming State Parks' Big Horn District. "Please be assured that we are actively working to provide updates and strive to bring new and exciting aquatic opportunities to the park in the near future."

The State Bath House and other aquatic facilities at Hot Springs State Park will remain operational and accessible to the public. During this transitional period, visitors are encouraged to enjoy all the park has to offer.

For ongoing updates regarding the Star Plunge at Hot Springs State Park, please visit our official website, wyoparks.wyo.gov, or follow us on Facebook at @hotspringsstatepark.

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