Norris Hot Springs
Norris Hot Springs delivers 127°F sodium-dominant water with 200 mg/L sodium, 130 mg/L sulfate, and pH 7.8, emerging at 4,803 feet in Gallatin County near Three Forks, Montana. The spring sits just 49 meters from the road with full roadside access. The site operates as a commercial soaking facility and live music venue on state land managed through the Montana University System.
The spring sits in the broad Madison Valley of southwestern Montana at 4,803 feet, where the Madison River flows north toward Three Forks and its confluence with the Jefferson and Gallatin rivers. The valley floor is wide and open, flanked by the Tobacco Root Mountains to the west and the Madison Range to the east. Annual precipitation is 18.7 inches with about 57 inches of snow. Sagebrush and grassland cover the drier benches while cottonwoods line the river corridor.
Norris Hot Springs takes its name from the nearby community of Norris, Montana. The spring occupies state land associated with the Montana University System. Commercial development transformed the site into a well-known soaking destination that also hosts live acoustic music performances, drawing visitors from across the region. Red Mountain Campground on the lower Madison River, about 10 km away, provides seasonal camping and river access.
The commercial facility sets its own hours and seasonal schedule; check ahead before visiting. Red Mountain Campground on the lower Madison River is reservable from May through mid-September and first-come-first-served the rest of the year. The Madison River corridor provides blue-ribbon trout fishing. Winters bring sub-zero temperatures, but the developed facility operates through cold months. Bring cash as a backup for entry fees.
Is Norris Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
The water at Norris Hot Springs is slightly alkaline (pH 7.8).
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Overview The Dillon Field Office is unable to make reservations for you. Please call Recreation.gov (877-444-6777) to book a reservation or book online. Campsites are available for reservation for the Peak-Season times of May 1st through September 15th. From September 16th through April 30th, all sites are first-come-first-serve. Red Mountain Campground is adjacent to the lower Madison River and provides good access for camping, fishing and floating. The campground has 19 camp sites, 11 ava...