Star Plunge Closes Early, Leaving Soakers Disappointed and Concerned

The Star Plunge, a beloved hot springs facility in Thermopolis, Wyoming, has unexpectedly closed earlier than planned, leaving many visitors disappointed, Cowboy State Daily reports.

The closure, which took place on Tuesday, was ahead of its previously scheduled closing date on Wednesday. This abrupt shutdown is the latest development in an ongoing legal battle between the facility’s owner and the state over the future of the historic pool and hot springs.

Justin Jacobs, a longtime patron of the Star Plunge, arrived early on Tuesday morning to find a closed sign posted at the entrance, a sight that confirmed his fears. Jacobs, who grew up near the facility, has fond memories of spending time at the Star Plunge in his youth.

“It feels like a piece of my childhood just died,” he shared.

Jacobs reflected on the deep connection many locals and visitors have with the site.

Joy Erickson, who traveled from Lander to take advantage of the facility’s last day, was also upset to find the pool closed. Despite calling ahead to confirm the opening, she and her son Dayton arrived to discover the early closure. Similarly, Annette Withington, 91, expressed her disappointment, as she relied on the therapeutic waters for her health.

The Star Plunge, which features indoor and outdoor hot spring pools, water slides, and arcade games, has long been a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. However, the facility has faced complications due to a legal dispute with Wyoming state officials. The facility’s operations contract, which expired on December 31, was extended for two weeks, with the expectation that a new agreement could be reached with a proposed new operator, Wyoming Hot Springs LLC. These discussions, however, have not resulted in a deal, leading to the facility’s closure.

Owner Roland Luehne has voiced concerns over the closure, citing the impact on the local economy and the community. He emphasized that the closure will result in the loss of jobs for 15 employees and disrupt the routines of about 1,200 season ticket holders, many of whom are elderly and rely on the hot springs for health benefits. Luehne has also warned that the state’s decision to close the facility could lead to higher prices in the future if a new operator takes control.

While the Star Plunge remains closed, Wyoming State Parks is overseeing the facility’s maintenance to prevent damage during the winter months. Brooks Jordan, the Big Horn District Manager for Wyoming State Parks, expressed regret over the closure but noted that the agency would wait for a court ruling regarding the legal dispute before moving forward with any plans for the facility.

The closure has sparked concern among community members about the long-term impact on the local economy. Hot Springs County Commissioner Paul Galovich stressed the importance of the Star Plunge for winter tourism, noting that the facility plays a key role in attracting visitors to the area. Many locals, like Jacobs, worry about the future of the park and the affordability of access for the public.

As the legal battle continues, the community remains uncertain about the future of the Star Plunge and its role in the town’s economy. Local officials, including Mayor Adam Estenson, have acknowledged the disruption caused by the closure but are also hopeful that the state’s long-term plans for the park may lead to future growth for Thermopolis.