Overview
The teepee-dome soak that still feels like Thermopolis
Hellie’s Tepee Pools is a commercial hot-water facility inside Hot Springs State Park with a setup that’s easy to understand: indoor hot-water pools under the signature teepee-shaped dome, plus outdoor soaking options. It’s a dependable choice when you want a longer soak than the free bath house, and you don’t want to gamble on the status of other facilities.
What you’re paying for
You’re paying for time and variety. Instead of a quick, timed soak, you get a more flexible pool session and extra features like hot tubs and indoor amenities. The vibe is casual, not luxury. It’s closer to “family pool day with hot mineral water” than “silent spa retreat.”
Why it works in winter
Thermopolis is a shoulder-season and winter-friendly hot springs stop because the core experience doesn’t depend on perfect weather. Indoor water means you can soak even when it’s windy, icy, or doing that sideways-snow thing Wyoming likes to do. If you’re building a cold-weather road trip, this is the kind of facility that stays useful.
Location & Access
Where it is
Hellie’s Tepee Pools is located within the developed Hot Springs State Park area in Thermopolis, Wyoming. You’ll be in the main cluster of bathing facilities, close to park roads and easy parking, not out on a remote access track.
By car
Access is paved, signed, and suitable for standard vehicles. Park nearby and plan for a short walk to the entrance. If you’re pairing stops, it’s realistic to combine a quick park terrace walk with a soak here on the same visit.
Operations and planning
Facilities like this run cleaning schedules and may have occasional closures for maintenance. Check the official site for the current schedule and any pool closures before you go, especially if you’re arriving late in the day or traveling on a holiday weekend.
What to bring
Swimsuit, towel, and sandals with traction. If you’re going in winter, bring a warm layer for the transition from pool to car. If you’re sensitive to mineral-water smells, a quick rinse after soaking helps, and it’s smart to bring basic toiletries for the drive.
Suitability & Accessibility
Hellie’s is best for travelers who want a comfortable, developed hot-springs soak without the formality of a resort. It’s a strong fit for families, small groups, and anyone who wants indoor water as insurance against wind and cold.
Families
Family friendly, yes, because the environment is controlled and the indoor setup keeps kids from freezing between dips. The main reality check is noise and energy, this is not a quiet soak space on busy weekends.
Mobility realities
Parking is close and walking distances are short. Still, I’m listing wheelchair accessible as FALSE because I’m not relying on a verified, consistent step-free pool entry setup and accessible changing-room details. If those specifics matter, call ahead and ask directly about entry steps, handrails, and the most accessible route.
Expectations vs. reality
Expect a practical hot-water facility with a bit of character, not a luxury spa. If you want solitude, go early or midweek. If you want an easy soak that doesn’t require planning a hike, this is the point.
Safety & Etiquette
Water and heat
Even managed pools can run hotter than you expect. Ease in, keep your first session short, and rotate out to cool down. Drink water, especially if you’ve been driving all day.
Wet floors and transitions
Indoor pool decks get slick. Sandals help, but slow steps matter more. Watch for puddles near doorways where people track water in and out.
Shared-space etiquette
Keep voices reasonable inside the dome, don’t block steps or jets, and give people room. If you bring kids, keep splash play appropriate for the crowd, this is a soak space first, even if it’s family-heavy.
Hygiene basics
Rinse before soaking if showers are available, keep lotions and oils out of the water, and use restrooms, not the pool, for everything. It sounds obvious, but it’s what keeps a busy hot-water facility tolerable.
Photos
Be cautious with cameras. Avoid filming strangers, and keep phones out of changing-room flow. If you want a “teepee dome” shot, grab it outside where privacy isn’t an issue.
FAQs
Is Hellie’s Tepee Pools a natural hot spring?
It’s a developed facility that uses mineral hot water from the Thermopolis hot springs system. You’re soaking in managed pools, not a wild river soak.
Do you need to hike to reach it?
No. It’s a drive-up destination within Hot Springs State Park with nearby parking and short walking.
Is it good in winter?
Yes, because indoor pools make the soak less dependent on weather. Bring a warm layer for transitions and expect icy conditions around parking areas.
What should you bring?
Swimsuit, towel, traction sandals, and water to drink. If you’re sensitive to mineral smell, plan to rinse after soaking and bring basic toiletries for the drive.
Is it quiet and spa-like?
Not usually. It’s more of a practical, family-leaning soaking facility. For the quietest experience, go early or midweek.