Hot Springs State Park is renowned for its therapeutic hot springs and impressive travertine terraces, providing visitors with a unique outdoor escape in Wyoming.
Dive into an adventure where nature’s bountiful offerings await with each cast of your fishing line. Hot Springs State Park in Wyoming, a vibrant playground for fishing enthusiasts, exudes a dynamic interplay of aquatic life and untamed wilderness. Situated amidst the windswept plains of central Wyoming, the park promises an angling experience brimming with both thrilling challenges and serene moments of tranquility.
As you prepare for your journey, the morning air carries a whispery chill, a gentle reminder of the mountainous terrain that encircles this lowland oasis. The Bighorn River, winding its storied path through the park, invites you with its clear, inviting waters. Its song—a harmonious babble—paints a vivid soundscape that guides your journey to some of the best fishing holes in the region. Here, the river is your companion, daring you with its currents and whispering secrets of the aquatic life beneath its surface.
The diverse fish population here offers an exciting pursuit for both seasoned anglers and novices alike. From rainbow and brown trout to the lurking sauger, the promise of a catch keeps your senses alert and your grip firm. As you gently navigate the riverbanks, the sun casts a golden dance upon the waters, highlighting ripples that tease of hidden depths and the elusive treasures they guard.
Your gear, chosen with care, becomes an extension of yourself. Wearing sturdy, water-resistant boots, you make your way along gravel pathways that crunch underfoot with each purposeful step. Their paths add a rhythm to the adventure, guiding you to vantage points perfect for casting. A lightweight rod and a well-stocked tackle are your trusty companions as you venture deeper into this angler’s haven.
But fishing at Hot Springs State Park is not merely about the act of catching; it is an invitation to immerse yourself in the rich tableau of life thriving there. A brief pause reveals the park’s embrace—meadows swaying in the breeze, wildflowers colorfully peeking through the greenery, and the sky’s vast expanse streaked with hawks soaring on currents above. The world is alive with possibility, a gentle reminder to pause, observe, and breathe in the adventure before you.
Practical advice is as crucial as your enthusiasm. Always start early to maximize your fishing experience, as both dawn and dusk are prime times for catching the most active fish. Ensure hydration is a priority, with a good water bottle in reach, as even amidst the calm, Wyoming's high-altitude sun can be unforgivably intense. Donning light, breathable clothing completes your ensemble, striking a balance between protection and comfort as you move through the landscape.
In Hot Springs State Park, the journey shapes the narrative, every moment as much about personal discovery as it is about the thrill of the catch. This is not just a guide to a fishing spot; it is an open invitation to connect deeply with nature, feel the earth beneath you, and lose yourself in the symphony of the natural world. Each ripple in the river, each whisper of the wind through the trees, beckons you to return time and time again, promising new stories, new triumphs, and new memories to be etched into the very fabric of your adventurous spirit. Embrace the wild and the water with open arms, and let the park's bounty redefine your understanding of an epic angling adventure.
Everything you need to know to prepare for an unforgettable trip to Hot Springs State Park.
Free access to the park and bath house.
Spring and fall are ideal for fewer crowds and milder temperatures.
Main facility near the entrance with information and restrooms.
Accessible via US Highway 20, with good road conditions year-round.
Summers are hot with highs in the 90s°F, while winters are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Spring and fall present mild temperatures ideal for outdoor activities.
Conservation focuses on protecting geothermal areas and bison habitat, with monitoring in place to prevent resource decay and manage visitor impact effectively.
Find the perfect spot to stay overnight and immerse yourself in the details.
Camping is not available within the park; options exist nearby in Thermopolis.
A short loop offering close-up views of the park’s unique travertine formations.
This trail leads to sweeping views of the park and the Big Horn Basin.
Circles the area frequented by the bison herd with scenic views of the river.
Visit the State Bath House early in the day to avoid crowds.
Fall offers beautiful foliage and cooler weather ideal for hiking.
Parking is readily available at the main facilities area within the park.
Wear sturdy footwear for hiking the less developed trails across the terraces.