Hot Springs State Park
Hot Springs State Park surrounds the thermal springs and colorful mineral terraces along the Bighorn River in Thermopolis. Visitors can combine a brief mineral soak with riverside walks, the suspension bridge, picnic areas, bison viewing, and nearby commercial swimming facilities.
The image above is a generated image to describe Hot Springs State Park and may not accurately represent what Hot Springs State Park really looks like.
Hot Springs State Park at a Glance
| Location | Thermopolis, Wyoming |
|---|---|
| Public soaking | A state bathhouse offers limited-duration soaking under current park rules |
| Other pools | Commercial aquatic facilities operate separately near the park |
| Park features | Mineral terraces, trails, river access, picnic areas, bridge views, and a bison herd |
| Best for | Families, road trippers, geology enthusiasts, and visitors wanting several activities in one stop |
Know the Difference Between the Bathhouse and Commercial Pools
The state bathhouse provides a simple public mineral soak with rules limiting session length. Nearby commercial operators offer larger pools, slides, spa features, or longer recreational visits for a fee. Choose the bathhouse for a traditional short soak and the commercial pools for a fuller family swimming day.
Walk the Mineral Terraces
Boardwalks and paths reveal the park’s flowing water and colorful mineral deposits. Stay on established surfaces because thermal runoff can be hot and fragile formations are easily damaged. The suspension bridge provides a broad view across the Bighorn River and terrace area.
Look for Bison Safely
The park maintains a managed bison herd in a separate area. View from a vehicle or designated safe location, maintain substantial distance, and never approach for photographs. Bison can move quickly and should not be treated like livestock in a petting area.
Build a Thermopolis Day
The Wyoming Dinosaur Center, downtown Thermopolis, Wind River Canyon, and river recreation can turn the stop into a full day or overnight visit. Check individual operating schedules rather than assuming the bathhouse, commercial pools, museums, and food service keep identical hours.
Prepare for High Plains Weather
Thermopolis can be hot and exposed in summer and sharply cold in winter. Bring sun protection, drinking water, and layers even when the main goal is soaking. Wet walking surfaces may become icy during colder periods.
Is This Hot Spring a Good Fit?
This Spring May Work Well If
- You prefer maintained pools, predictable facilities, staff support, and a reservation-based experience.
- You want to combine soaking with lodging, private tubs, massage, food service, or a planned celebration.
Consider Another Option If
- Choose a natural spring if your priority is solitude, no admission fee, and an undeveloped outdoor setting.
- Look elsewhere when timed sessions, age policies, capacity limits, or the total cost do not fit the group.
Verify Current Conditions Before You Go
Hot spring access and operating details can change with weather, maintenance, water conditions, ownership policies, and seasonal demand. Before traveling, confirm the following with the official operator, land-management agency, or another current local source:
- Current opening status, operating days, and seasonal closures
- Reservations, day-use limits, entry fees, and timed access
- Road, trail, parking, shuttle, and winter-access conditions
- Pool availability, water-level changes, maintenance, or temporary closures
- Swimwear, shower, towel, locker, food, glass-container, and photography rules
- Age limits, accessibility, pets, overnight use, and maximum soaking times
- Trail conditions, river crossings, weather, wildfire restrictions, and emergency access
- Package inclusions, lodging policies, spa appointments, and cancellation terms
- Agency alerts, permits, fire restrictions, and temporary resource-protection rules
Do not rely on an older social post, screenshot, or search snippet for same-day access. Confirm details as close to your visit as practical.