Thermopolis, WY — Wyoming State Parks disclosed an agreement that will see the state remit $1,175,921.05 to Big Springs Spa, Inc., the current concessionaire of the Hot Springs Hotel, formerly the Days Inn Hotel. The payment reflects the appraised value of the company’s capital improvements and its continuing business interest in the historic hotel and adjoining water‑park facilities.
Legislative authority behind the payment
The transaction follows an appraisal mandated by Section 335 of Enrolled Act 27 of the Sixty‑eighth Wyoming Legislature, commonly referred to as the 2027 Budget Bill. That statute required Wyoming State Parks to determine the fair market value of both the physical capital invested in the property and the intangible value of the existing concessionaire’s business, even though the operator was not selected for a new long‑term contract.
The state legislature authorized up to $3 million in previously appropriated funds to reimburse the concessionaire based on the appraisal. The disbursement is subject to review and written approval by the Wyoming Attorney General, ensuring compliance with state fiscal safeguards.
State Parks officials look ahead
“This agreement, along with the recent agreement with the Star Plunge, will allow us to focus on the future of the hotel and water‑park concessions at Hot Springs State Park,” said Nick Neylon, deputy director of the Wyoming Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources. “We look forward to moving ahead with improvements that will provide a safe, welcoming, and high‑quality experience for Wyoming residents and visitors.”
The Hot Springs Hotel, a landmark within Hot Springs State Park, has long served tourists drawn to the park’s natural thermal waters. By settling the appraisal and compensating the current operator, the state aims to clear any lingering financial obligations and set the stage for future development or a new concession contract.
Implications for the local economy
Thermopolis officials anticipate that the clarified ownership and financial arrangement will encourage investment in the hotel and surrounding amenities. A stable operating environment can attract additional tourism dollars, support local jobs, and potentially fund upgrades to the water‑park facilities that draw families from across the region.
Stakeholders, including local business owners and community leaders, have expressed optimism that the agreement will preserve the historic character of the hotel while allowing for modern enhancements that meet contemporary visitor expectations.
Next steps
Wyoming State Parks will continue to work with the Attorney General’s office to finalize the payment and complete any required documentation. The department also indicated that it will begin evaluating proposals for a new long‑term concessionaire to manage the hotel and water‑park operations, with an emphasis on preserving the park’s natural resources and delivering a family‑friendly experience.
For additional details about Wyoming State Parks and the Hot Springs Hotel agreement, visit wyoparks.wyo.gov.
Original reporting: Oil City News (Casper WY) — read the source article.
