Hot Springs State Park
Swimming hole in Casper, Wyoming · Spring
Hot Springs State Park is a hot springs swimming hole. It is near Casper, Wyoming. Access is free. Best season: Spring for blooming wildflowers, summer for lush greenery, autumn for warm colors, and winter for serene snowy landscapes with rising steam.
Typical season: Spring for blooming wildflowers, summer for lush greenery, autumn for warm colors, and winter for serene snowy landscapes with rising steam
About Hot Springs State Park
Hot Springs S.P. gives you hot springs swimming access near Casper in Wyoming. Expect a natural bank, not a built beach. This is not a manufactured spa experience. It is geology made personal, a living landscape shaped by centuries of mineral deposition, rising steam, and the quiet power of thermal water finding its way to the surface. The park is anchored by the Big Spring, one of the world's largest mineral hot springs, which pours out a steady flow of brilliantly colored water across pale travertine terraces that cascade toward the Bighorn River. The formations glow in shades of cream, ochre, and rust. Mineral architecture built one thin layer at a time over thousands of years. In winter, steam lifts off the terraces in slow, theatrical columns, and the contrast of snow-dusted ground against the warm-colored rock is otherworldly. Come summer, cottonwoods and willows soften the canyon edges with green, and the park feels lush and surprisingly intimate for Wyoming's wide-open scale. Keep your eyes open: a resident bison herd roams the park grounds, and sightings are common enough to feel like part of the visit rather than a lucky bonus. Swim at your own risk at Hot Springs S.P. Check conditions after rain and respect any posted closures.
Key facts
Structured details for trip planning — verify access and fees with the land manager before you visit.
- Water type
- Hot Springs
- Water body
- Hot Springs
- Fee
- None (Donations accepted)
- Nearest town
- Casper
- State
- Wyoming
- Coordinates
- 43.65058, -108.20904
- Best season
- Spring for blooming wildflowers, summer for lush greenery, autumn for warm colors, and winter for serene snowy landscapes with rising steam.
- Access difficulty
- Easy access via Route 20; facilities available for visitors of all abilities.
- Restrooms
- Yes
- Lifeguard
- None — assume unguarded
- Camping
- No camping at site - day use park only.
- Land manager
- State park / recreation agency
- Activities
- Hot Soaking
- Facilities
- State Bath House with moderated pools, clean restrooms, changing areas, and showers. No camping; day-use only park.
- Listing last updated
- May 12, 2026
The experience
- Best time to visitSpring for blooming wildflowers, summer for lush greenery, autumn for warm colors, and winter for serene snowy landscapes with rising steam.
- AccessEasy access via Route 20; facilities available for visitors of all abilities.
- FacilitiesState Bath House with moderated pools, clean restrooms, changing areas, and showers. No camping; day-use only park.
- Camping nearbyNo camping at site - day use park only.
Highlights & features
- Therapeutic hot springs at 104°F
- Legend Rock petroglyph site
- Bison herd and wildlife viewing
- Mineral-rich travertine formations
- Year-round access and free entry
- Healing thermal waters
- Ancient petroglyphs at Legend Rock
- Bison herd within the park
How to get there
Hot Springs S.P. lies in Wyoming near Casper, Riverton, and Thermopolis. Use these driving notes as a starting point and confirm road conditions before you go.
Starting Point: Casper, WY
Begin your journey in Casper, WY.
Head west on U.S. Route 20 (RT 20) for about 100 miles. Along the way, you’ll pass through scenic areas and small towns, including Shoshoni.
Once you reach Shoshoni, continue north on U.S. Route 20 for another 30 miles. This stretch of the drive will take you through the Wind River Canyon, a beautiful area with towering cliffs and the Wind River running alongside the road. Destination: Thermopolis, WY
4. As you arrive in Thermopolis, follow U.S. Route 20 into town.
5. Hot Springs State Park lies at 538 N Park St, Thermopolis, WY 82443 . Look for signage directing you to the park entrance.
Parking and Final Approach
Parking is available within Hot Springs State Park. There are multiple lots near the hot springs and other park attractions. Once parked, you can easily access the swimming area. The park also features bathhouses, picnic areas, and walking trails for visitors to enjoy.
Additional Notes
Hot Springs State Park is known for its therapeutic mineral pools and scenic surroundings. Be sure to bring appropriate swimwear and towels if you plan to enjoy the hot springs. The park is open year-round, but hours may vary depending on the season. Check locally for any updates or restrictions. Have a safe visit to Hot Springs State Park! Bring water, sunscreen, and gear for a primitive swim day. Weekends and holidays can draw more visitors. Check local updates on access and water levels before you leave home.
Plan your visit
Hot Springs S.P. works well as a day trip from Casper or Riverton. Stock up in town, then head to the water with food, water, and sun protection. Pair the swim with a stop at Granite Hot Springs (about 114 mi away) or browse more Wyoming spring spots in our directory. For the full list in Wyoming, see our state directory.
Access & fees
Parking is available on-site. The state bathhouse operates on a first-come, first-served basis; capacity may be limited during peak times. Donations for maintenance are accepted but not required for entry. Facilities include restrooms and changing areas.
Frequently asked questions
Can you soak or swim at Hot Springs S. P.?
Yes. Hot Springs S. P. near Casper, Riverton, and Thermopolis in WY is a hot-springs destination on Hot Springs. Confirm current access and temperatures before you go — conditions change.
Is Hot Springs S. P. free?
Access is generally free (fee listed as “None (Donations accepted)”). Confirm any parking or day-use rules on site, and pack out trash.
How do you get to Hot Springs S. P.?
Hot Springs S. P. is in WY within day-trip range of Casper, Riverton, and Thermopolis. Use a current map for the put-in or park entrance; cell service can be limited at remote spots.
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Map & location
Culture & history
Historically significant as a sacred site for Native American tribes and part of a treaty ensuring public access to the springs.
Conservation
Visitors should follow Leave No Trace principles to protect wildlife and preserve the mineral formations. Donations support park maintenance.
Sources & updates
Official land managers cited on this page
Always confirm current rules, closures, and fees on the agency site before visiting.
Reference sources
Spotted outdated access, fees, or safety info? Send a correction with the page URL — we review every submission.