Quick FactsOverview
About Fountain of Youth RV Park
Fountain of Youth RV Park, Wyoming is a paid campground and hot spring facility at 250 N Highway 20 near Thermopolis in Hot Springs County, approximately 2 miles north of town on US-20. The outdoor mineral pool is fed by the Sacajawea Well, drilled in 1918, delivering water at approximately 128 degrees Fahrenheit at the source. The pool measures 235 feet by 72 feet and maintains a temperature of 95 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit. The facility claims this is the largest mineral hot spring pool in Wyoming. Day use is available for non-camping visitors. The pool is open daily from 7am to 9:30pm year-round.
The site's history stretches back to 1923 when it was the Hot Springs County Poor Farm, where mineral waters were used for therapy. By mid-century it was known locally as the Scotch Plunge, a free public pool. In the early 1960s Oscar and Etta Payne purchased the site and transformed it into Payne's Fountain of Youth RV Park. The campground includes RV sites with 30/50 amp hookups, tent camping, cabins, a bunkhouse, store, laundry, coin showers, playground, and horseshoe pits. Hot Springs State Park, with free public soaking facilities, is approximately 2 miles south.
Location & Access
Getting to Fountain of Youth RV Park
Fountain of Youth RV Park is located at 250 North Highway 20, Thermopolis, Wyoming 82443, approximately 2 miles north of Thermopolis on US-20. From Thermopolis, head north on N 6th Street, continue onto Highway 20, and drive approximately 2 miles. The park is on the right. From Cody, drive south on US-14/16/20 for approximately 84 miles. From Casper, take US-26 west then US-20 north through Shoshoni. The drive from Casper or Cody is approximately 3 hours. The facility is open year-round and accessible by any vehicle with free on-site parking.
Day use visitors should contact the park directly to confirm current hours and day-use rates, which are separate from overnight camping fees. The park phone number is 307-864-3265. Reservations can be made through Campspot or by calling the park directly. The pool is included with overnight camping fees. Hot Springs State Park is located approximately 2 miles south of the Fountain of Youth on US-20 and offers free public soaking at state-managed facilities fed by the same Thermopolis geothermal system. For those seeking hot springs near Thermopolis Wyoming, the Fountain of Youth is one of two major soaking facilities in the immediate area, offering a more private camping-integrated experience than the busy state park facilities.
Suitability & Accessibility
Suitability and Accessibility of Fountain of Youth RV Park
Fountain of Youth RV Park suits families, couples, solo travelers, RV campers, and day visitors seeking a large, accessible mineral pool experience in central Wyoming. The campground and pool are both documented as wheelchair accessible. The pool deck and surrounding area are flat and designed to accommodate guests with mobility needs. A shallow end in the pool makes it accessible for younger children and less confident swimmers.
The pool maintains two temperature zones, with the higher-temperature section near the spring inflow at the upper end and a cooler section at the lower end. Pool floats and foam noodles are commonly used by guests and are typically permitted. The large pool size means it can accommodate significant visitor numbers without feeling crowded. The facility is pet-friendly for camping guests. The park offers a range of accommodation from full-hookup RV sites to tent sites, cabins, and a bunkhouse, making it suitable for different travel styles and budgets.
For those seeking hot springs near Thermopolis Wyoming, the Fountain of Youth RV Park provides the most direct camping-integrated mineral pool experience in the area, while nearby Hot Springs State Park offers free day-use soaking at state-run facilities. Thermopolis itself offers additional attractions including the Wyoming Dinosaur Center, Wind River Canyon, and the Bighorn River for fishing.
Safety & Etiquette
Fountain of Youth RV Park Safety Tips
Fountain of Youth RV Park is a managed facility open for day use and camping. The mineral pool is staffed and maintained. Pool hours are 7am to 9:30pm daily. Do not enter the pool outside of operating hours. Water temperature ranges from 95 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit depending on which section of the pool you are in. The hotter section is near the spring inflow at the upper end. Test the water before entering and limit time in the hottest zone. Guests with heart conditions, high blood pressure, or pregnancy should consult a physician before using mineral water at elevated temperatures.
The Sacajawea Well delivers water at approximately 128 degrees at the source. This is a true geothermal mineral spring. The water has been used therapeutically for over a century, but the mineral content means it has a distinct smell and feel compared to fresh water. Rinse off after soaking if you have sensitive skin. The park does not station lifeguards at the pool. Children must be supervised at all times.
The campground is located alongside US-20, a busy highway, and a railroad line runs nearby. Keep children and pets away from the road and track areas at all times. Cell service is limited at the park per some visitor reports. The nearest hospital is the Hot Springs County Memorial Hospital in Thermopolis, approximately 2 miles south. Train noise at night is noted by some visitors; earplugs may be useful for light sleepers.
Leave No Trace principles apply. Do not use soap, shampoo, or detergents in the mineral pool. No alcohol is permitted in the pool area. Follow all posted rules during your stay.
