File:Landslide deposit (west of Cody, Wyoming, USA) 2.jpg — cc by 2.0
Shoshone Hot Springs flows at 95 degrees Fahrenheit along the North Fork Highway beside Buffalo Bill Reservoir at 5,106 feet elevation, just 18 meters from pavement, with calcium-sulfate chemistry showing 322 mg/L calcium and 402 mg/L sulfate in 1,400 mg/L total dissolved solids.
The springs emerge along the steep-walled canyon of the North Fork Shoshone River where the Bureau of Reclamation's Buffalo Bill Dam creates a reservoir extending upstream 8 miles. At 5,106 feet, the canyon cuts through Paleozoic sedimentary formations including limestone and dolomite that contribute the high calcium concentrations to spring water. The surrounding landscape combines sagebrush slopes with scattered Douglas fir at higher elevations. Annual precipitation of 19 inches and 61 inches of snowfall create moderate mountain moisture conditions. The reservoir's blue-green water contrasts with red and gray canyon walls.
History of Shoshone Hot Springs
The springs take their name from the Eastern Shoshone people who occupied this territory before white settlement. Buffalo Bill Cody promoted the canyon route as a gateway to Yellowstone in the 1890s, with dam construction beginning in 1905. The springs remain under Bureau of Reclamation management as part of the reservoir recreation area, with state park designation permitting continued access.
Visit April through October for best access as winter snow can complicate the North Fork Highway. The roadside location permits easy stops along the Yellowstone-Cody route. Water chemistry suggests the springs may leave mineral deposits. Base in Cody 27 miles east for full services, or use Hogan and Luce Campground 32 kilometers southwest for more remote camping near the Absaroka Wilderness boundary.
Is Shoshone Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Warm-water soaking
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
- Mineral-rich therapeutic bathing
Shoshone Hot Springs is well suited for warm-water soaking and easy day trips.
Annual Precip: 18.6 in
Annual Snow: 61.0 in
February
Air 20°F · Water 95°F · +75° contrast
December
Air 20°F · Water 95°F · +75° contrast
January
Air 21°F · Water 95°F · +74° contrast
February offers 50°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
80.6°F
(27.0°C)
Measured Aug 14, 1970
The water at Shoshone Hot Springs is neutral (pH 7.0) with 1400 mg/L total dissolved solids. It is notably rich in calcium (may support bone density and joint health), magnesium (known for muscle relaxation and stress relief), and sulfate (traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation).
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
Higher mineral concentration for therapeutic soaking
May support bone density and joint health
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
The Hogan and Luce Campground has five individual camp sites and one group site. It is located near two reservoirs. The campground next to the Hogan Reservoir has picnic tables, toilet facilities, bear-proof food storage boxes, grills/fire rings, horse trailer parking, horse stanchions, a boat ramp and hitching rails.
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Warm layers
Cold air before and after soaking
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Hogan And Luce Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
USGS Quad: (CODY 15) · NOAA: 1.0 · AMS Map: CODY
What is the water temperature at Shoshone Hot Springs?
Shoshone Hot Springs has a water temperature of 95°F (35°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Shoshone Hot Springs located?
Shoshone Hot Springs is located in Park County, Wyoming at 5,106 feet elevation, near Cody. Coordinates: 44.5130°N, 109.1290°W.
How do I get to Shoshone Hot Springs?
Shoshone Hot Springs has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being North Fork Highway (58 ft from the road).
Is Shoshone Hot Springs free to visit?
Shoshone Hot Springs has Open access. It is managed by SPR.
Can I camp near Shoshone Hot Springs?
Yes, Hogan And Luce Campground is located nearby (20.0 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Shoshone Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 7.0 (neutral). Total dissolved solids measure 1,400 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at Shoshone Hot Springs?
Shoshone Hot Springs is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Shoshone Hot Springs crowded?
Shoshone Hot Springs is accessible from a paved road, making it easy to reach. Weekends and holidays may be busier — consider visiting on a weekday for a quieter experience.
What should I bring to Shoshone Hot Springs?
Essentials for Shoshone Hot Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, warm layers for before and after soaking, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.