Student Sydnee Bryan has enjoyed many trips to Thermopolis, all of them highlighted by family and one popular attraction, Star Plunge. “Every Easter when our family from all around comes together, we all go swimming for like 3 to 4 hours and have lots of fun jumping off the diving board over and over again.” Those are memories she will have forever, but will she be able to share the same experiences with her own children some day?
Star Plunge, a popular hot spring facility in Thermopolis, WY has closed indefinitely due to the expiration of its management agreement with Wyoming State Parks.
The park was granted an extension until January 14, 2025, so that the management would be able to conclude a sale and transfer of ownership. The closure is a result of disputes between the owner, Roland Luehne, and Wyoming State Parks, regarding the current condition and potential modernization of the facility.
Star Plunge opened for the first time in 1900, and the state water park has only grown. According to Star Plunge’s website, the water is completely chemical free, and kept between 94 and 104 degrees. Luehne bought Star Plunge from his parents in 2012. Before him, his family had owned the park since they bought a 50 year lease in 1975.
Family memories seem to be the dominant thought when NC students were asked about the water park. “For Christmas last year my grandparents took me and my best friend to Star Plunge. It was so fun and a very good time before my grandpa passed away this July. I feel sad about it potentially closing because I have so many great memories and I would like to have many more, and I would like to have those memories with my kids in the future,” said student Josie Hagler when asked about how she felt about the closure.
The closure of the park is having impacts on businesses, such as hotels, that operate in the area. Luehne and other business owners worry about the economic consequences that the closure will have on Thermopolis. Before the closure, Luehne implemented a petition on the Star Plunge website in hopes to save the park.
Maintenance of the attraction is something that Wyoming State Parks and Luehne have debated. Luehne has pointed out that he has completed costly improvements in the property, but others believe more could be done.
“I think that things aren’t fully taken care of. The diving board and the slide inside do gross me out sometimes,” student Annabelle Simons told The Gusher. Other students pointed out the fun selection of slides and activities at Star Plunge, and the nostalgia of memories experienced while visiting with friends and family. “We always stand and talk inside the fountain by the little outdoor slide then go down together as one big train,” said senior Sydnee Bryan.
Though Star Plunge is temporarily closed, a majority of students spoken with remain hopeful that an agreement will reopen the park’s doors.
In the meantime, there are still walkways, the Bighorn River, and multiple other attractions in Thermopolis that make the town worth visiting.
The status of the park is currently in litigation, but further questions can be directed to the board of Wyoming State Parks.
