Star Plunge
Step back in time at Star Plunge, a retro waterpark and hot springs haven in Thermopolis, Wyoming, offering slides, pools, and vapor caves.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Star Plunge
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Star Plunge, a retro waterpark and hot springs haven in Thermopolis, Wyoming, offering slides, pools, and vapor caves.
"A great pit stop that broke up our drive and was fun for the whole family!"
Pack Your Own Snacks 🍎
Food options are limited; bring a cooler with your favorite treats to enjoy throughout the day.
Embrace the 70s Vibe ✨
Enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere and retro tunes – it's part of the unique charm!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Super Star 500 Water Slide
Outdoor area
One of the world's longest water slides, stretching over 500 feet and gushing 2,400 gallons per minute. A thrilling ride!
Vapor Cave
Indoor area
Experience the unique sensation of a natural vapor cave, a signature feature of Star Plunge's mineral pools.
Outdoor Pools & Jump Tower
Outdoor area
Enjoy outdoor pools with varying temperatures, plus a jump tower for the adventurous.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Retro Vibe
Plan for a Full Day of Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack Your Own Snacks 🍎
Food options are limited; bring a cooler with your favorite treats to enjoy throughout the day.
Embrace the 70s Vibe ✨
Enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere and retro tunes – it's part of the unique charm!
All-Day Access ⏰
Your admission grants you 12-hour in-and-out privileges, so plan for a full day of fun.
Rentals Available 🔑
No need to worry if you forgot essentials; towels, suits, and lockers are available for rent.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack Your Own Snacks 🍎
Food options are limited; bring a cooler with your favorite treats to enjoy throughout the day.
Embrace the 70s Vibe ✨
Enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere and retro tunes – it's part of the unique charm!
All-Day Access ⏰
Your admission grants you 12-hour in-and-out privileges, so plan for a full day of fun.
Rentals Available 🔑
No need to worry if you forgot essentials; towels, suits, and lockers are available for rent.
Sulphur Smell is Normal 👃
The natural mineral springs have a distinct sulphur scent, which is normal and part of the experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Star Plunge is a beloved spot for its unique retro charm and relaxing hot springs, offering a fun-filled day for families. While some find the sulphur smell and limited food options drawbacks, the affordable pricing and all-day access make it a worthwhile stop for many.
"Great pit stop on our way back to Denver from visiting Yellowstone. Very affordable and fun for the whole family. The State Hotsprings parks is awesome too! The Bison drive get you up close to a lot of bison! It really helped break up our drive!"
Julie Hoch
"Star Plunge is a great Hot Mineral Pool House with several pools and different temperatures. There is an outside pool and two slides outside, a hot water pool and a jump tower. Inside you have another big pool, and two whirlpools, a vapor cave and another slide. The changing rooms and showers are good too. Plenty of benches and seats outside. We really enjoyed our time here!"
Sari
"Been visiting the Star Plunge for over 40 years and it's still an amazing experience. There are very few places in the world where one can have such a unique experience. Don't pass it up on your way to the National Parks. Take the time to stop in, relax, and let the kids play. The price is reasonable and is good for the entire 12-hour business day with in and out privileges. They rent towels, suits, and lockers so no excuses."
KA E
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Star Plunge is located in Thermopolis, Wyoming, often visited as a stop between major attractions like Yellowstone. It's accessible by car, and many visitors find it a convenient break on longer road trips.
Yes, Star Plunge is located within the Hot Springs State Park, which is free to enter and offers various pool options.
Many travelers use Star Plunge as a pit stop on their way to or from Yellowstone National Park, breaking up long drives with a relaxing soak.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is considered affordable and reasonable, especially given the all-day access. One source mentions $16 for the Super Star 500 slide, but general admission is typically a set price for the day.
Star Plunge is open year-round, which is a great perk for visitors. Specific daily hours can vary, so it's always best to check their official schedule.
Absolutely! Your admission includes 12-hour in-and-out privileges, allowing you to take breaks and return as needed.
Advance booking is generally not required for Star Plunge. You can typically purchase tickets upon arrival.
While the slides are fun for many, tandem rides might not be allowed for younger children, which can disappoint some families.
🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience
Star Plunge features a variety of pools, including an outdoor pool, a hot water pool, an indoor main pool, and two whirlpools, offering different temperature experiences.
Yes, there are multiple water slides, including the impressive Super Star 500, both indoors and outdoors, providing plenty of aquatic fun.
The vapor cave is a unique natural feature where you can experience the mineral-rich steam, adding a distinct element to the hot springs experience.
The changing rooms and showers are reported to be good, providing convenient facilities for guests.
Yes, Star Plunge is a great place for a family day visit, with plenty of activities to keep kids entertained, though some restrictions on tandem rides may apply.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Food options at Star Plunge are limited. It's highly recommended to bring your own cooler with snacks and drinks to ensure you have plenty to eat. +1
Yes, visitors are encouraged to bring a cooler with their own food, as on-site dining choices are scarce.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique retro vibe of the 70s-inspired decor and the natural beauty of the surrounding Wyoming landscape. The Super Star 500 slide also makes for dynamic shots.
Photography is generally permitted, allowing you to capture memories of your visit. Be mindful of other guests' privacy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks in a cooler, as food options are limited.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
The all-day access means you can truly unwind and enjoy the facilities without feeling rushed. It's a perfect destination for a spontaneous day trip, offering a memorable experience that's both affordable and fun. Don't forget to bring your own food to maximize your enjoyment and budget.
💰 Budget Travelers
To keep costs down further, packing your own food and drinks is a smart move, as on-site options can add up.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Appeal of Star Plunge
The mineral-rich hot springs are central to the Star Plunge experience. The facility boasts a variety of pools, each offering different temperatures and benefits, including indoor and outdoor options. The natural sulphur scent, while noticeable, is an intrinsic part of the hot springs' character and a reminder of the natural geothermal activity.
Beyond the pools, the park offers thrilling water slides, including the impressive Super Star 500, which is noted as one of the world's longest. For those seeking a unique sensory experience, the vapor cave provides a steamy, mineral-infused environment. The inclusion of a jump tower adds another layer of excitement for thrill-seekers.
Family Fun and Practicalities
While the facility is generally clean and the staff friendly, some practical considerations are worth noting. Food options are scarce, so packing a cooler with snacks and drinks is highly recommended to keep everyone fueled.
For those traveling light, rentals for towels, swimsuits, and lockers are available, removing any potential excuses for not enjoying the water. The year-round operation is also a significant advantage, offering a fun activity regardless of the season.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit