Tentative Settlement Clears Path for Star Plunge to Reopen in Thermopolis

Wyoming State Parks has reached a tentative agreement with C&W Enterprises that would resolve the long-running legal dispute over the Star Plunge in Thermopolis and pave the way for the historic hot springs attraction to reopen under a new long-term operator.
As part of the agreement, both parties have jointly asked the court to cancel the summary judgment hearing that had been scheduled for Aug. 3, 2026.
According to Wyoming State Parks, the tentative settlement follows the completion of an appraisal process required under Section 335 of Enrolled Act 27, the 2027 Wyoming Budget Bill. The appraisal was a key step in advancing negotiations between the state and C&W Enterprises.
The agreement would bring to a close a process that began in 2008 when the Star Plunge’s long-term concession contract expired, leading to years of uncertainty and, more recently, litigation over the future of the facility.
Wyoming Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources Director Dave Glenn said the agreement represents an important milestone for both the community and visitors to Hot Springs State Park.
“Wyoming State Parks’ mission is to improve communities and enrich lives,” Glenn said. “This agreement will allow the agency to reopen the Star Plunge with a new long-term concessionaire who intends to make significant investments in the aquatic facilities. We are excited to partner on the long-term enhancement and modernization of these facilities, to ensure a safe, exceptional, and affordable experience for Wyoming residents and visitors.”
The Star Plunge has long been one of Thermopolis’ signature attractions, drawing visitors to its naturally heated mineral waters within Hot Springs State Park. State officials said the new concessionaire plans to invest significantly in modernizing the aquatic facilities while preserving the site’s role as an affordable recreation destination.
Wyoming State Parks has not yet announced a reopening date or released additional details about the final terms of the agreement. Once finalized, the settlement is expected to end the pending litigation and allow work to move forward on restoring operations at the Star Plunge.