Star Plunge vs Rexburg Rapids
A side-by-side look at two water parks — rides, prices, amenities, and which one fits your trip.
Which Park Is Right for You?
Quick verdicts based on what each park offers.
Amenities Compared
What each park offers, side by side.
| Feature | Star Plunge | Rexburg Rapids |
|---|---|---|
| Wave Pool | ||
| Lazy River | ||
| Water Slides | ||
| Kiddie Area | ||
| Tube Rentals | ||
| Cabanas | ||
| Food & Dining | ||
| Parking | ||
| Picnic Area | ||
| Splash Pad | ||
| Hot Tubs / Spa | ||
| Season Passes | ||
| Swimming Pool |
Only at Star Plunge
- Hot Tubs / Spa
Only at Rexburg Rapids
- Wave Pool
- Splash Pad
- Cabanas
- Tube Rentals
- Season Passes
Both parks share 7 amenities including Lazy River, Water Slides, Kiddie Area, and 4 more.
About Each Park
Star Plunge
Wyoming
Star Plunge in Thermopolis is Wyoming's original water park, and it's got a completely different vibe from your typical commercial splash zone. This place runs on natural hot springs water, which means you're swimming in the same geothermal goodness that made Thermopolis famous in the first place. The main attraction is the giant outdoor pool filled with naturally heated mineral water that stays warm year-round - we're talking 104°F straight from the ground. You'll also find a couple of solid water slides that dump you right into the hot springs pool, plus a separate cooler swimming area for when you need a break from the heat. The park keeps things simple but effective with a lazy river that's perfect for floating, and a decent kids' area with smaller slides and splash features. What really sets Star Plunge apart is that therapeutic hot springs experience. You can actually soak in the same waters that people have been using for healing for over a century. It's especially amazing during Wyoming's brutal winters when you can swim outside in steaming hot water while snow falls around you. The facility isn't huge or flashy, but it's clean and well-maintained with that classic small-town feel. Families love it because the natural mineral water is gentle on skin, and the smaller size means parents can easily keep track of kids. Bring water shoes since the concrete can get hot, and don't expect fancy amenities - this is more about the unique natural experience than resort-style luxury.…
Read the full Star Plunge guide →Rexburg Rapids
Idaho
Rexburg Rapids brings much-needed water fun to eastern Idaho, serving as the region's go-to spot for cooling off during those surprisingly hot summer days. This community-focused outdoor water park keeps things simple but effective, with a solid lineup of tube slides that'll get your heart racing and a dedicated children's area that parents actually appreciate. The wave pool here isn't the biggest you'll find, but it does the job for families looking to bob around together. What I really like about Rexburg Rapids is how it feels genuinely local – you're not dealing with massive crowds or corporate theme park prices. The lazy river winds around most of the park and moves at the perfect pace for floating with a drink in hand. Kids gravitate toward the splash zone with its colorful water features and smaller slides designed for the under-10 crowd. The food situation is standard water park fare – think nachos, burgers, and overpriced drinks – but the portions are decent and the prices won't completely destroy your budget. Since this is Idaho and the season is shorter than southern parks, Rexburg Rapids makes the most of summer with extended hours during peak season. The park works best for families with kids ranging from toddlers to teenagers, though thrill-seekers might want something with more intense slides. Get there early on weekends if you want to snag one of the limited cabana spots, and definitely bring your own sunscreen since the Idaho sun hits harder than you'd expect. The…
Read the full Rexburg Rapids guide →Ready to visit Star Plunge?