Quick FactsOverview
Overview
Camas Hot Springs, often called Big Medicine Hot Springs, is a small, straightforward soaking pool on the Flathead Indian Reservation in the town of Hot Springs, Montana. The main feature is a single outdoor concrete pool fed by geothermal water. People stop here for a simple soak without a resort setting, especially when they want something quick and low key while passing through the Little Bitterroot Valley.
Expect minimal services and plan to bring your own basics. A towel, sandals, and a warm layer make the experience more comfortable, and carrying drinking water helps you manage heat. Payment is commonly handled through an honor system box, so do not assume card payment or staffed check in. Because the pool is outdoors, comfort depends on weather, shade, and how busy it is when you arrive.
Since this spring sits on tribal land, be respectful of posted rules and community expectations. If you are unsure about fees, permits, or access, check signage on site or ask locally in town. A calm, tidy visit goes a long way at a small pool that many people share.
Location & Access
Location & Access
Camas Hot Springs is on the north side of the town of Hot Springs, Montana, reached by paved roads and a short walk from parking to the pool area. Most visitors arrive by car via Montana Highway 28 and connecting local streets. Use the address in this listing or the map link for navigation, then follow posted signs at the property entrance. Because cell coverage can drop on rural highways, download your route before leaving Missoula, Kalispell, or other larger towns.
Access rules and fee collection can change over time. This site is within the Flathead Indian Reservation, so non members may need to follow specific recreation guidance beyond typical state or county norms. If you see an honor box or gate signage, take a moment to read it carefully and pay as requested. Plan to pack out trash and leave the area clean. If the pool is busy, be ready to wait your turn or return at a quieter time.
In colder months, plan for icy patches near the pool edge and in the parking area. Bring footwear with grip and a robe or warm layer for the walk back to your vehicle. After dark, lighting may be limited, so a headlamp can help you move safely and keep your hands free for towels and gear. Arrive with small bills.
Suitability & Accessibility
Suitability & Accessibility
This spring is a good match for visitors who want a simple outdoor soak and are comfortable with basic infrastructure. It works well for solo travelers and small groups who can share space politely and keep sessions reasonable when others are waiting. Families can visit, but the pool edge can be slippery and the water may feel hot, so children should stay within arm's reach of an adult and take frequent breaks.
Because the setup is small, privacy is limited. If you prefer changing rooms, indoor amenities, or multiple pools with clear separation by temperature, you may be happier at a resort style option in town. On the other hand, if you like a straightforward, local pool and do not mind variable crowding, Camas can be a satisfying stop.
Wheelchair accessibility is uncertain and may be limited by parking surface, narrow paths, and pool entry design. Do not assume a ramp, lift, or handrails are in place. If you rely on a wheelchair or have significant mobility limits, consider visiting with a companion who can scout the entry and help you decide whether conditions are workable that day. A sturdy chair or cane can also help on uneven ground.
For comfort, bring a swimsuit, towel, sandals with grip, and water. A robe or insulated layer helps between the pool and the car in cool weather. If you have heat sensitivity or medical conditions affected by hot water, keep soaks short and consider checking with a clinician before you go.
Safety & Etiquette
Safety & Etiquette
Hot water soaking can be hard on the body. Start with a short soak, take breaks to cool down, and drink water. If you feel lightheaded, nauseated, or overheated, exit the pool and rest in the shade or fresh air. Avoid alcohol or other impairing substances before soaking. People who are pregnant, have heart conditions, or take medications that affect blood pressure should consider medical advice before using hot pools.
Walk carefully on wet concrete and any packed dirt around the pool. Slips are the most common issue at small soaking spots, especially when temperatures drop and thin ice forms on edges. Wear sandals with traction and keep a towel handy for drying your feet before you walk back to the car. Keep glass containers away from the pool area, and secure keys and phones so they do not fall into the water.
Etiquette matters at a single pool. Rinse off before entering if a rinse area is available, and do not use soap, shampoo, or oils in the water. Keep voices low, avoid phone speaker use, and give others room. If the pool is crowded, limit your time so everyone gets a turn. Take photos only if you can do it without including other bathers, and ask first if anyone might be in frame.
This site is on tribal land. Follow posted rules, pay required fees, and respect any guidance about permits or access. Leave the area cleaner than you found it by packing out all trash. If you notice a hazard such as a broken edge, slick algae, or an unsafe step, avoid it and let a local contact know if possible. A respectful visit keeps this kind of low key soaking option workable for both residents and travelers.



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