Overview
Thermopolis’ classic “water park fed by hot water”
Star Plunge is one of the long-running commercial bathing names inside Hot Springs State Park, known for a more playful setup than the State Bath House. Think pools, jets, and a louder, family-heavy atmosphere. When it’s operating normally, it’s the pick for travelers who want to soak and splash rather than sit quietly.
Check status before you drive
This is the important part: Star Plunge’s availability has changed, including periods of closure tied to park concession operations. Don’t assume it’s open just because you’ve seen old photos or a high-season review. If Star Plunge is a make-or-break stop, verify current status on official park updates and the business’ current channels before you build your day around it.
How it differs from the free bath house
It’s bigger, busier, and geared toward a “spend an afternoon” visit. The State Bath House is a short, controlled soak. Star Plunge, when open, is more of a recreational pool complex where you can rotate between warmer and cooler water and keep kids entertained.
Location & Access
Where it is
Star Plunge sits within Hot Springs State Park in Thermopolis, Wyoming, in the cluster of bathing facilities along the park’s developed road network. It’s close to the State Bath House area, so you can often pair them in a single park loop if both are operating.
By car
Drive into the park from Thermopolis and follow signs toward the bathing facilities. Access is paved and parking is nearby. This is a normal-vehicle destination, not a forest-road adventure.
Current operations and closures
Status has shifted in recent years, including temporary closure announcements and ongoing updates posted by Wyoming State Parks. Treat the day-of plan as conditional: check official notices and the most recent business updates before you go. If it’s closed, the free State Bath House remains the reliable fallback inside the park.
What to bring
Swimsuits, towels, and sandals with traction. Bring water and something warm for the walk outside between pools in cooler weather. If you’re traveling with kids, pack simple snacks and a change of dry clothes, wet swimsuits plus Wyoming wind is a fast way to chill them out.
Suitability & Accessibility
Star Plunge is best for groups who want an active, recreational hot-springs day rather than a quiet soak. It’s the family pick when it’s open, and it can work well for mixed groups where some people want to float and others want to sit in hotter water.
Families
Family friendly in concept, yes, because the format is designed for kids. The practical reality is supervision never stops, especially around deeper sections, steps, and crowded edges. If you’re traveling with toddlers, plan for short sessions and lots of drying off.
Mobility realities
It’s a developed facility with parking nearby, but I’m keeping wheelchair accessible as FALSE here because I’m not relying on a verified accessibility plan or consistent step-free pool entry details. If you need specific accessible entry, call ahead or check the most current facility information before you commit.
Expectations vs. reality
Expect noise, families, and a “public water facility” feel. This is not a spa. If you want quiet mineral soaking, you’ll likely prefer the State Bath House or a smaller pool setup.
Safety & Etiquette
Verify status, then follow posted rules
If the facility is open, your best safety move is simply reading the day’s signage and staff guidance. Commercial hot-water facilities change operations based on maintenance, weather, and crowding.
Heat management
Hot water can sneak up on you when you’re playing or moving between pools. Rotate in and out, drink water, and keep first-time visitors conservative. If you feel dizzy or nauseated, get out, cool down, and reset.
Slip hazards
Wet concrete, wet stairs, and excited kids are a predictable combo. Sandals help, but pace and attention matter more. Make “no running” the baseline rule for your group.
Courtesy in crowded pools
Give people space, don’t block steps and ladders, and keep phones out of changing areas. If you’re taking photos, keep other visitors out of frame. A public pool day goes smoother when everyone acts like the space is shared, because it is.
Cold weather transitions
Thermopolis can feel brutally cold when you step out wet. Bring a warm layer, and dry off well before walking back to the car. Wind is what gets you, not the temperature number.
FAQs
Is Star Plunge open year-round?
Historically it has operated year-round, but recent years have included closure periods and changing operational status. Check official Wyoming State Parks updates and current business posts before you go.
What’s the difference between Star Plunge and the State Bath House?
The State Bath House is free, controlled, and designed for short soaks. Star Plunge is a commercial, recreation-style facility with more “pool day” energy when it’s operating.
Do you need to book ahead?
Policies can change, so treat this as something you confirm before arrival. If your trip depends on it, verify the current entry setup and hours on the facility’s current channels.
Is it good for kids?
When open, it’s often the most kid-friendly hot-water option in Thermopolis because it’s built around pools and play. Supervision still matters, especially in crowded conditions.
What should you pack?
Swimsuits, towels, traction sandals, and a warm layer for transitions. Bring water and a change of dry clothes, especially for children.