Overview
The easiest “real hot spring” stop in Wyoming
The State Bath House is the practical side of Thermopolis’ Hot Springs State Park, a free, managed soaking facility fed by the park’s mineral hot water. The big win is how simple it is: you park, change, soak, leave. No reservations, no spa packaging, no long drive down a forest road. If you’re passing through on US-20, it’s one of the most frictionless hot springs visits in the state.
What the experience feels like
This is a public bath house, not a resort. Expect a functional indoor pool and an outdoor soaking pool, with water kept at a comfortable soaking temperature rather than “scalding source” heat. It’s a good reset on a road trip, especially in colder months when you want warmth without committing to a full afternoon.
Plan for short, timed soaks
Soaking is commonly limited per session, which keeps the place moving even on busy days. Treat it like a quick stop you can repeat, not a long lounge. If your goal is a long, social soak with drinks and music, choose a different facility in Thermopolis.
Location & Access
Where it is
The State Bath House sits inside Hot Springs State Park in Thermopolis, Wyoming, close to the Big Horn River terraces and the park’s main internal roads. It’s a paved, signed destination within the developed park zone, not a backcountry spring.
By car
Access is straightforward from US-20. You’ll drive into the park and follow signs for the bath house area. Parking is nearby and the walk is short and flat, more “from the lot to the door” than anything that resembles a hike.
Hours, limits, and seasonal quirks
The bath house posts set hours and is not a 24/7 soak. Session limits are part of how it runs, so build your plan around a short visit. Holiday schedules can differ by season, and the park sometimes adjusts operations based on staffing or maintenance, so it’s worth checking the official park page before you commit to a long drive.
What to bring
Bring a swimsuit, towel, and simple shower sandals. You don’t need wilderness gear. In winter, add a warm layer for the walk back to the car, wet hair cools fast in Wyoming air. If you’re making a day of the park, pack water and snacks, Thermopolis is small and you may not want to bounce in and out of town.
Suitability & Accessibility
The State Bath House is best for travelers who want a clean, predictable soak without paying resort rates or planning a hike. It works well for road trippers, older travelers who want minimal walking, and anyone testing the idea of hot springs without committing to a full spa day.
Families
Family friendly, yes, mostly because it’s controlled and easy. The reality is kids often get restless with timed soaks, so keep the visit short, and plan a walk along the park terraces or a playground stop afterward.
Mobility realities
This is one of the most manageable hot-springs experiences in the region because the approach is paved and the walking distance is minimal. That said, I’m not treating it as wheelchair accessible in the strict sense here because accessible features can change by season, maintenance, and exact route. If step-free entry or specific changing-room features matter for you, confirm directly with the park before you go.
Expectations vs. reality
Expect a public bath house vibe, functional changing areas, and a short soak. Don’t expect a luxury spa, private pools, or quiet solitude. The pay-off is that you can fit it into almost any itinerary and still feel like you got a real Thermopolis hot-water experience.
Safety & Etiquette
Timed soaking is there for a reason
Even when the water feels mild, hot soaking stresses the body. Follow posted time limits, stand up slowly, and sit out if you feel lightheaded. If you’re traveling solo, it’s smart to keep your first soak conservative.
Wet surfaces
Bath houses are slip zones. Wear sandals with traction, walk slowly, and treat every tile edge like it’s slick. Keep kids from running, especially when the facility is busy.
Hygiene and shared-space etiquette
Rinse before you enter if showers are available, keep personal products out of the water, and don’t treat the pools like a bathtub. If it’s crowded, avoid sprawling across the best spots. A short soak and moving along keeps the place pleasant for everyone.
Cold weather basics
In winter, the hard part is the transition, not the soak. Dry off well, cover up, and plan for wind. If you’re prone to getting chilled, bring a warm hat for the walk back to the car.
Photos and privacy
Public pools mean you’ll share space with strangers. Be careful with photos, and keep cameras off the changing-area flow. If you want content, grab it outside the facility where it’s easier to respect other visitors.
FAQs
Is the State Bath House in Thermopolis really free?
Yes, the State Bath House in Hot Springs State Park is operated as a free public bathing option. Expect posted hours and rules, and plan around short sessions rather than an all-day soak.
How long can you soak per visit?
The bath house commonly limits soaking time per session to keep crowds moving and for basic safety. Read the posted signage on arrival, and plan your visit as a short stop you can repeat later.
Do you need reservations?
Typically no. It runs as a first-come public facility. The main planning move is checking the current schedule and holiday hours on the official park site.
What should you wear and bring?
A swimsuit is required. Bring a towel and shower sandals, plus a warm layer for winter transitions. Skip valuables, storage is limited in most public bath houses.
Is it a good choice if you don’t want to hike?
Yes. This is drive-up access inside a developed state park, with short, flat walking from parking. It’s one of the easiest hot-springs experiences in Wyoming to execute.