File:ISS018-E-34429 - View of Earth.jpg — public domain
Sleeping Child Hot Springs emerges at 122 degrees Fahrenheit within the Bitterroot National Forest, managed by the US Forest Service with open public access. The alkaline water (pH 8.1) is low in dissolved minerals, with just 6.2 mg/L calcium and 0.2 mg/L magnesium. A 122-meter walk from the road reaches the spring at 4,929 feet elevation in Ravalli County.
The spring lies in a forested canyon along Sleeping Child Creek in the Bitterroot Range, surrounded by dense stands of lodgepole pine and Douglas fir at nearly 5,000 feet. The Bitterroot Valley opens to the west, with the Sapphire Mountains visible beyond. This area receives substantial precipitation: 26.2 inches of rain and 95.8 inches of snow annually, feeding the creek system year-round. Skalkaho Creek flows nearby, and the surrounding national forest terrain is steep and heavily timbered.
History of Sleeping Child Hot Springs
Sleeping Child Hot Springs has a long history of use in the Bitterroot Valley. The name derives from a Salish legend about a child left sleeping near the warm waters. The site was developed as a resort in the early 1900s, and commercial soaking facilities have operated at or near the springs at various points. The spring sits on National Forest land with protection status 3. Black Bear Campground on Skalkaho Creek, 9.1 kilometers away, provides six first-come, first-served sites.
The road to Sleeping Child Hot Springs can be rough, especially during spring snowmelt; high-clearance vehicles are recommended. Best access runs from late June through October. Annual snowfall of 95.8 inches makes winter access unreliable. The 122-meter walk from the road is manageable but can be muddy in spring. Water temperature at 122 degrees Fahrenheit requires testing before soaking. Black Bear Campground nearby accommodates RVs and trailers up to 50 feet.
Is Sleeping Child Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Overnight camping trips
Sleeping Child Hot Springs is well suited for hot spring soaking and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 26.2 in
Annual Snow: 95.8 in
December
Air 21°F · Water 122°F · +101° contrast
January
Air 23°F · Water 122°F · +99° contrast
February
Air 24°F · Water 122°F · +98° contrast
December offers 45°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
109.4°F
(43.0°C)
Measured Aug 15, 1974
The water at Sleeping Child Hot Springs is slightly alkaline (pH 8.1).
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
Iron-rich springs may support circulation
Located on the banks of Skalkaho Creek, Black Bear Campground hosts 6 sites with picnic tables, fire rings, and a vault toilet. There is no garbage service so Pack it in/Pack it out. Campground can accommodate RV's or trailers to 50'.
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 Black Bear Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
34 miles from Hamilton, MT
USGS Quad: DEER MOUNTAIN 7.5 · PP 492: 12.0 · NOAA: 2.0 · AMS Map: HAMILTON
What is the water temperature at Sleeping Child Hot Springs?
Sleeping Child Hot Springs has a water temperature of 122°F (50°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Sleeping Child Hot Springs located?
Sleeping Child Hot Springs is located in Ravalli County, Montana at 4,929 feet elevation, near Hamilton. Coordinates: 46.1060°N, 114.0040°W.
How do I get to Sleeping Child Hot Springs?
Sleeping Child Hot Springs has Short Walk road access (401 ft from the road).
Is Sleeping Child Hot Springs free to visit?
Sleeping Child Hot Springs has Open access. It is managed by US Forest Service.
Can I camp near Sleeping Child Hot Springs?
Yes, Black Bear Campground is located nearby (5.7 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Sleeping Child Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride, Iron. The pH is 8.1 (slightly alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Sleeping Child Hot Springs?
At 122°F, Sleeping Child Hot Springs is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Sleeping Child Hot Springs crowded?
Sleeping Child Hot Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Sleeping Child Hot Springs?
Essentials for Sleeping Child Hot Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, warm layers for before and after soaking, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in. The water is over 110°F — test the temperature before entering and watch for scalding near the source.