River Bend Bark Park

History of River Bend Bark Park

River Bend Bark Park was established as a community recreation facility in Thermopolis to provide local residents and visitors with a dedicated off-leash dog recreation area.

Situated along the scenic Big Horn River, the park was developed to take advantage of the area's natural setting while complementing nearby Hot Springs State Park.

The facility features multiple play structures and amenities including picnic tables, waste receptacles, and gated access points designed to accommodate groups of dog owners.

Over time, the park has become an established fixture in Thermopolis's recreational offerings, though maintenance and upkeep have fluctuated based on community involvement and seasonal conditions.

The park's riverside location and proximity to other recreational areas have positioned it as a convenient destination for dog owners seeking outdoor socialization opportunities for their pets in the region.

Dog Park Rules in River Bend Bark Park

To ensure the safety of your dog and a pleasant experience for all visitors at River Bend Bark Park, it's important to familiarize yourself with the park's rules and regulations.

The park is open from sunrise to sunset, and you must supervise your dog at all times. All dogs must have valid licenses and current rabies tags displayed on their collars. You're allowed to bring a maximum of three dogs during each visit, and dogs must be leashed when entering and exiting the park.

Please note the following key restrictions:

• Choke, prong, and spike collars aren't permitted; these must be removed before entering the park.
• Aggressive dogs, female dogs in heat, and puppies under four months of age aren't allowed in the park.
• Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

You will be held responsible for any injuries or damages caused by your dog.

It's essential to clean up after your dog immediately and dispose of waste properly. If your dog exhibits aggressive behavior, you must remove it from the park right away. The Town of River Bend is not liable for actions of dogs or owners within the park.

Any rule violations should be reported to the River Bend Police Department at 638-1108.

What to Expect at River Bend Bark Park

When you arrive at River Bend Bark Park in Thermopolis, you'll find yourself in a riverside setting with direct access to the Big Horn River, though be aware that the water itself is fenced off from the dog play area.

The park features two gates—one main entrance off the parking lot and another across from it leading to paths alongside the river.

The grounds consist of mostly dry, coarse green grass with minimal shade coverage.

David Reyes notes that it can be dry and somewhat unexciting, with only one tree in the far corner for shade, which is a concern especially on hot days when sun exposure can be significant.

Jo N recommends visitors bring water, as hydration for your dog is essential during warm weather visits.

Your visit will have you moving through a space equipped with practical amenities including three picnic tables, several play structures for dogs to enjoy, poop bags, and a garbage can for waste disposal.

The park also connects to Hot Springs, a very nice grassy park that you can walk to on-leash only, offering an opportunity to extend your outing in a more lush setting.

The park's atmosphere tends to be quiet.

Jo N observed that there weren't many other dogs during their visit, which may appeal to those seeking a more private experience or concern those hoping for social interaction with other dogs.

Recent conditions have prompted concerns about maintenance, with Darlene Kollman describing the space as sad and full of weeds during a visit in 2025, indicating that ground conditions may vary seasonally.