Renova Hot Springs
Renova Hot Springs surfaces at 122 degrees Fahrenheit on BLM public land in Jefferson County, Montana, with open public access. Recent USGS measurements confirmed 48.9 degrees Celsius. The spring sits 69.5 meters from Point of Rocks Road at 4,500 feet elevation, classified as roadside access near Whitehall.
The spring emerges along the Jefferson River valley at 4,500 feet, where cottonwood-lined river bottoms transition to dry grass and sagebrush hillsides. The Jefferson River flows through this broad, open valley flanked by the Highland Mountains to the south and the Bull Mountains to the north. Annual precipitation averages just 17.3 inches with 47.4 inches of snow, reflecting the rain shadow effect of surrounding ranges. Point of Rocks Road follows the river corridor past the spring site.
Renova Hot Springs takes its name from the former railroad stop of Renova along the Jefferson River. The spring sits on BLM land managed by the Dillon Field Office under protection status 3, meaning it remains open to public access while potentially subject to extractive use permitting. The spring has been used informally by locals for soaking, with volunteer-built rock pools appearing periodically along the riverbank. No formal development exists at the site.
The spring is accessible year-round from Point of Rocks Road, though winter conditions can make the dirt road challenging. Water at 122 degrees Fahrenheit (48.9 degrees Celsius confirmed by USGS) is too hot for direct contact at the source; soaking is possible where thermal water mixes with cooler river water. Spring runoff from April through June can flood pooling areas. Toll Mountain Campground sits 19.6 kilometers away but is first-come, first-served only.
Is Renova Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
The water at Renova Hot Springs is slightly alkaline (pH 7.5). It is notably rich in sulfate (traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation).
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Toll Mountain campground is located on the eastside of the Highland Mountain Range, approximately 20 miles east of Butte. The campground has 5 units that will accommodate trailers up to 22 feet and also has a group picnic area. The campground is close to a creek and offers a quiet forest setting for weekend getaways.