Washakie Mineral Hot Springs flows at 111°F on the Wind River Reservation in Fremont County, delivering moderately hot water 68 degrees above ambient temperature at 5,480 feet elevation. Located essentially roadside at just 42 meters from the nearest road, the spring sits on Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho tribal land with unknown public access status. Recent USGS analysis documents water chemistry with 270 mg/L sulfate and 130 mg/L calcium at pH 7.2.
The spring emerges at 5,480 feet elevation on Wind River Reservation tribal lands, where average annual temperatures reach 44°F with 15 inches of precipitation and 49 inches of snow. The surrounding landscape features sagebrush steppe vegetation characteristic of Wyoming's intermontane basins, with the Wind River Range rising dramatically to the west. The spring lies in relatively flat terrain with minimal distance from vehicular access. The high sulfate content contributes to distinctive mineral deposits around the spring outlet.
History of Washakie Mineral Hot Springs
The spring takes its name from Chief Washakie, the renowned Eastern Shoshone leader who guided his people through the treaty era and died in 1900. The Wind River Reservation was established by treaty in 1868, with Chief Washakie securing this territory for the Eastern Shoshone. The Northern Arapaho were later placed on the reservation in 1878. Thermal springs held spiritual and practical significance for indigenous peoples long before Euro-American contact. The spring's development history on tribal land remains under tribal authority.
Access status is unknown as the Wind River Reservation maintains sovereignty over land use decisions. Contact tribal authorities before attempting to visit. The spring sits essentially roadside, requiring minimal physical effort if permission is granted. Worthen Meadow Campground lies 35 kilometers west in Shoshone National Forest with 28 sites and wilderness trailhead access. Respect tribal land and cultural sites; do not enter reservation lands without proper authorization. The nearest public town is Fort Washakie.
Is Washakie Mineral Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Washakie Mineral Hot Springs offers an accessible hot spring experience — great for a day trip.
Annual Precip: 15.4 in
Annual Snow: 48.6 in
January
Air 20°F · Water 111°F · +91° contrast
December
Air 20°F · Water 111°F · +91° contrast
February
Air 21°F · Water 111°F · +90° contrast
January offers 51°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
110.3°F
(43.5°C)
Measured Oct 16, 1989
The water at Washakie Mineral Hot Springs is neutral (pH 7.2). 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
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
Iron-rich springs may support circulation
Worthen Meadow Campground has 28 campsites on the shores of Worthen Meadow Resevoir. Trailheads at the campground accesses the Popo Agie Wilderness. No trailers over 24 feet. Amenities include potable water, three vault toilets, picnic tables, cook grates and boat ramp. Worthen Meadow Picnic Area is nearby.
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 Worthen Meadow Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
0 miles from Fort Washakie, WY
USGS Quad: ETHETE 7.5 · PP 492: 108.0 · NOAA: 3.0 · AMS Map: THERMOPOLIS
What is the water temperature at Washakie Mineral Hot Springs?
Washakie Mineral Hot Springs has a water temperature of 111°F (44°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Washakie Mineral Hot Springs located?
Washakie Mineral Hot Springs is located in Fremont County, Wyoming at 5,480 feet elevation, near Fort Washakie. Coordinates: 43.0080°N, 108.8350°W.
How do I get to Washakie Mineral Hot Springs?
Washakie Mineral Hot Springs has Roadside road access (137 ft from the road).
Is Washakie Mineral Hot Springs free to visit?
Washakie Mineral Hot Springs has Unknown access. It is managed by DESG.
Can I camp near Washakie Mineral Hot Springs?
Yes, Worthen Meadow Campground is located nearby (21.9 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Washakie Mineral Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride, Iron. The pH is 7.2 (neutral).
Is it safe to soak at Washakie Mineral Hot Springs?
At 111°F, Washakie Mineral Hot Springs is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Washakie Mineral Hot Springs crowded?
Washakie Mineral 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 Washakie Mineral Hot Springs?
Essentials for Washakie Mineral 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. The water is over 110°F — test the temperature before entering and watch for scalding near the source.