Star Plunge at Hot Springs State Park

About

Star Plunge sits inside Hot Springs State Park in Thermopolis, Wyoming, where the world's largest mineral hot spring feeds pools that have drawn visitors for over a century. The water park offers a rare combination of natural geothermal soaking and modern family fun, all powered by mineral-rich waters flowing from the earth at around 128 degrees Fahrenheit.

The facility features two large pools, two hot tubs, three waterslides, a vapor cave, three jacuzzis, and two baby pools. Whether you're looking for a thrilling ride down one of the slides or a peaceful soak in the warm mineral water, there's something here for every age and energy level. A 10-foot high jump platform adds an extra splash of adventure for the daring.

Beyond the pools, Star Plunge includes a weight room, game room, gift shop, snack bar, and tanning beds. It's a full-day destination rather than a quick stop. The facility is open year-round, daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, making it accessible in every season. Winter visits are especially popular, as the naturally heated water stays warm even when snow blankets the surrounding landscape.

Hot Springs State Park itself is worth exploring before or after your swim. The park offers a free State Bath House with indoor and outdoor soaking pools maintained at about 104 degrees Fahrenheit, no admission fee required. Walking paths wind past colorful mineral terraces and steaming springs along the Bighorn River.

Note: Wyoming State Parks announced a temporary closure of Star Plunge, with plans to bring new aquatic opportunities to the park. The State Bath House and other facilities remain open. Check with Hot Springs State Park directly for the most current status before planning your visit.

Accessibility

Hot Springs State Park has made efforts to welcome visitors of all abilities. The park offers wheelchair rentals and accessible trails, and Braille-ready park maps are available, helping visitors with visual impairments orient themselves independently.

The State Bath House, which remains open and free to the public, is described by park officials as accessible. Its indoor and outdoor mineral pools provide a therapeutic soaking option for visitors who may find the water park's slides and deeper pools challenging.

Specific accessibility details for the Star Plunge facility itself, including pool lift availability, accessible changing rooms, and path grades within the water park, are not confirmed in current published materials. Given the temporary closure announcement, features may change when the facility reopens with updated aquatic offerings.

Parking at Hot Springs State Park is available near the main facilities. The park's walking paths along the mineral terraces are generally paved and suitable for wheelchair users, though some sections near the river may have uneven terrain.

Contact Hot Springs State Park at (307) 864-2176 for current accessibility details, including the status of Star Plunge, available adaptive equipment, and any accommodations that can be arranged in advance. Visitors with specific mobility or sensory needs should confirm current conditions before traveling, especially given ongoing facility updates.

More accessible places in Wyoming

• Legend Rock Petroglyph Site (Thermopolis)
• Wyoming Dinosaur Center (Thermopolis)
• Grand Teton National Park (Moose)
• National Museum of Wildlife Art (Jackson)
• Devils Tower National Monument (Devils Tower)
• Fort Laramie National Historic Site (Fort Laramie)