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.

Hot Springs State Park Launches Projects to Improve Visitor Access and Experience

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Chris Delay, 307-864-2176;  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Hot Springs State Park Launches Projects to Improve Visitor Access and Experience

THERMOPOLIS, Wyo. — July 18, 2025 — Wyoming State Parks is announcing two exciting infrastructure improvements at Hot Springs State Park—a new boat dock installation and rehabilitation of the historic Swinging Bridge—that will enhance visitor safety, accessibility, and recreational opportunities. Construction begins next week and is scheduled to conclude before the end of August.

Work will begin the week of July 21 on a new boat dock at the park’s boat ramp, designed to improve water access for future recreation and small craft use. Construction will run through August 26. While the boat ramp will be temporarily closed during this period, the nearby parking area will remain open for general use. Please note that trailers will not be permitted due to limited turnaround space; however, the area will still be accessible for hand-launching small watercraft such as kayaks, canoes, or rafts.

The park’s beloved Swinging Bridge will also receive key upgrades beginning next week. Intermittent closures will begin the week of July 21, with more extended closures expected starting July 28. Construction is scheduled to be completed by August 22. Park staff aim to keep the bridge accessible as much as possible—it is expected to remain open most evenings unless a safety concern arises. These enhancements will help preserve the bridge’s historic charm while improving safety and structural integrity.

“We’re thrilled to make these long-term investments in the park’s infrastructure,” said Park Superintendent Chris Delay. “These projects are all about ensuring Hot Springs State Park remains a safe, beautiful, and accessible destination for years to come. We appreciate our visitors’ understanding and support during these beneficial improvements.”

Visitors can continue to enjoy the many open amenities throughout the park, including more than six miles of accessible trails, the mineral terrace boardwalk, scenic picnic areas, and the free State Bath House, which offers therapeutic soaking in natural mineral waters and is open daily with extended hours. Wildlife enthusiasts are also encouraged to visit the park’s central bison herd, a unique highlight of the Hot Springs experience.

For more information on available amenities and ongoing construction updates at Hot Springs State Park, please visit our official website at wyoparks.wyo.gov/hotsprings or follow us on Facebook at @hotspringsstatepark.