At 172°F, the source water at Warm Springs (State Hospital) is hot enough to cause burns. Some hot springs this hot have cooler side pools or downstream areas suitable for soaking — always test the water temperature before entering.
File:Warm Springs State Hospital 01.jpg — cc by-sa 3.0
Warm Springs discharges at 172 degrees Fahrenheit, one of the hottest recorded springs in Montana. Located on state-owned land managed by the Montana Department of Corrections, the spring is closed to public access. Recent USGS measurements confirm a temperature of 77 degrees Celsius with neutral pH of 7.0 and high sulfate concentrations at 660 mg/L.
The spring sits at 4,830 feet in the broad Deer Lodge Valley of southwestern Montana, where the Warm Springs Creek drainage meets wide, open ranchland. Annual precipitation reaches 19.6 inches with 58.6 inches of snow. The valley floor is semi-arid grassland flanked by timbered mountain slopes. The Clark Fork River headwaters flow nearby, and the landscape is shaped by historic mining and ranching activity.
History of Warm Springs (State Hospital)
The thermal waters here attracted attention in the late 1800s, and the Montana State Hospital was established at the site in 1877 as the Territorial Asylum. The springs gave the surrounding town its name. The facility transitioned to Department of Corrections oversight and remains an active institutional campus. Public bathing ended generations ago, and the springs are now entirely within the closed facility grounds.
This spring is not accessible to visitors. The grounds are part of an active corrections facility, and entry is prohibited without authorization. No public soaking, viewing, or parking areas exist. Those interested in the thermal geology of the Deer Lodge Valley can instead explore other regional springs or the interpretive resources available through the Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology.
Is Warm Springs (State Hospital) worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Easy day trips
Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Warm Springs (State Hospital) is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and easy day trips.
Monthly Climate
21°Jan
22°Feb
30°Mar
37°Apr
48°May
57°Jun
66°Jul
65°Aug
55°Sep
41°Oct
29°Nov
19°Dec
Annual Precip: 19.6 inAnnual Snow: 58.6 in
Best Time to Visit
DecemberAir 19°F · Water 172°F · +153° contrast
JanuaryAir 21°F · Water 172°F · +151° contrast
FebruaryAir 22°F · Water 172°F · +151° contrast
December offers 47°F more contrast than July
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature
170.6°F
(77.0°C)Measured Aug 19, 1978
Water ChemistrySampled 1978-08-19
The water at Warm Springs (State Hospital) is neutral (pH 7.0). It is notably rich in calcium (may support bone density and joint health) and sulfate (traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation).
Overview
High Rye Cabin is a quaint place to stay, ideally situated for exploring the northern Fleecer Mountains. An abundance of recreational activities are available in this
scenic area.
The cabin was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps around 1919 and is located in the historic mining district of German Gulch. It was used as an administrative
site until the 1940s, when it was opened to the public.
The cabin can be accessed by vehicle; however, during the fall, alternative resourc...
What is the water temperature at Warm Springs (State Hospital)?
Warm Springs (State Hospital) has a water temperature of 172°F (78°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Warm Springs (State Hospital) located?
Warm Springs (State Hospital) is located in Deer Lodge County, Montana at 4,830 feet elevation, near Warm Springs. Coordinates: 46.1780°N, 112.7940°W.
How do I get to Warm Springs (State Hospital)?
Warm Springs (State Hospital) has Roadside road access (136 ft from the road).
Is Warm Springs (State Hospital) free to visit?
Warm Springs (State Hospital) has Closed access. It is managed by OTHS.
Can I camp near Warm Springs (State Hospital)?
Yes, High Rye Cabin is located nearby (12.7 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Warm Springs (State Hospital)?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride, Iron. The pH is 7.0 (neutral).
Is it safe to soak at Warm Springs (State Hospital)?
The water at Warm Springs (State Hospital) reaches 172°F, which can cause severe burns. Do not enter the source pool directly — look for cooled side pools or downstream areas where the water has cooled to a safe temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Warm Springs (State Hospital) crowded?
Warm Springs (State Hospital) is accessible from a paved road, making it easy to reach. Weekends and holidays may be busier — consider visiting on a weekday for a quieter experience.
What should I bring to Warm Springs (State Hospital)?
Essentials for Warm Springs (State Hospital): 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.
