Anderson Springs flows at 77°F in Sweet Grass County, Montana, at 5,540 feet elevation along the East Boulder River drainage. USGS measurements confirm 25°C. The near-neutral water (pH 7.7) carries substantial calcium (74 mg/L) and sulfate (130 mg/L) with almost no sodium or chloride, indicating local carbonate rock dissolution rather than deep-sourced heating.
The spring emerges about 248 feet from East Boulder Road near Big Timber, in a mountain valley flanked by the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness to the south and the Crazy Mountains to the north. At 5,540 feet, the terrain supports mixed conifer forest and riparian meadow along the Boulder River corridor. Annual snowfall reaches 116 inches and precipitation totals 29 inches, creating a wet mountain environment. The Absaroka Range skyline dominates the southern horizon.
History of Anderson Springs
The spring's name likely references an early homesteading or ranching family in the Boulder River valley. Sweet Grass County was organized in 1895, and the valley saw cattle ranching as its primary enterprise. Documented historical use of Anderson Springs is sparse. No commercial bathing or resort development has occurred at the site.
Access is best from June through October, as heavy snowfall closes higher-elevation roads. The 248-foot walk from East Boulder Road crosses open terrain. West Boulder Cabin, a reservable Forest Service rental 13 km away, has electricity and a cook stove, accessible by vehicle in summer but may require snowshoes in winter. Big Timber, on Interstate 90, provides the nearest full services.
Is Anderson Springs worth visiting?
Anderson Springs is well suited for overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 29.1 in
Annual Snow: 116.3 in
February
Air 21°F · Water 77°F · +56° contrast
December
Air 21°F · Water 77°F · +56° contrast
January
Air 23°F · Water 77°F · +54° contrast
February offers 45°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
77.0°F
(25.0°C)
Measured Oct 06, 1981
The water at Anderson Springs is slightly alkaline (pH 7.7).
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
Overview
West Boulder Cabin is open year-round, offering a variety of recreational opportunities as well as relaxation. Guests can drive to the cabin in warmer weather but should be prepared to snowshoe, ski or snowmobile up to a mile on county roads in the winter.The cabin has electric lights and an electric cook stove. A refrigerator is also provided. Rental camping equipment, such as ice chests, bear spray, campstoves, etc., are available locally in Bozeman. Guests will need to bring many...
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 West Boulder Cabin
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
0 miles from Big Timber, MT
USGS Quad: MCLEOD BASIN 7.5 · PP 492: 40.0 · NOAA: 4.0 · AMS Map: BOZEMAN
What is the water temperature at Anderson Springs?
Anderson Springs has a water temperature of 77°F (25°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Anderson Springs located?
Anderson Springs is located in Sweet Grass County, Montana at 5,540 feet elevation, near Big Timber. Coordinates: 45.5530°N, 110.1420°W.
How do I get to Anderson Springs?
Anderson Springs has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being East Boulder Road (0.2 mi from the road).
Can I camp near Anderson Springs?
Yes, West Boulder Cabin is located nearby (8.0 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Anderson Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 7.7 (slightly alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Anderson Springs?
Anderson Springs is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Anderson Springs crowded?
Anderson Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Anderson Springs?
Essentials for Anderson Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, warm layers for before and after soaking, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.