Washakie Mineral Hot Springs
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.
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.
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.
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).
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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.
Washakie Mineral Hot Springs sits at 5,480 feet above sea level, way above the mile-high mark. You may not feel the altitude strongly, but hot water still dehydrates you faster at elevation. UV is about 22% stronger than at sea level, so bring sunscreen and drink more water than you normally would.
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Washakie Mineral Hot Springs is road-accessible, so you can bring more gear. The water runs hot, so extra hydration is key. Cold air temperatures make a changing robe or warm layers essential.
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