Sleeping Buffalo Hot Springs & Resort A Place Worth Preserving Some properties are built. Others are discovered. The story of Sleeping Buffalo Hot Springs began more than a century ago when an oil drilling crew searching Montana's northern prairie unexpectedly discovered naturally heated mineral water instead of oil. What could have been considered a failed project became a destination of healing, recreation, and community. According to local history, one family first turned to the waters in hopes of helping a child suffering from polio, setting the stage for a legacy that would span generations. For decades, families, hunters, fishermen, travelers, and local residents have gathered at Sleeping Buffalo. Children learned to swim in its waters, lifelong memories were made, and traditions were passed from one generation to the next. Today, Sleeping Buffalo remains the only hot springs resort in northeastern Montana and one of the region's most recognizable destinations. Located along Highway 2 between Malta and Saco, the resort is centered around naturally heated mineral water supplied by a 3,200-foot artesian well drilled in 2021. The water emerges at a consistent 106-108 degrees and is rich in naturally occurring minerals. Sleeping Buffalo operates with a non-chlorinated, flow-through mineral water system, continuously supplying fresh mineral water to the pools. Extensive renovations have modernized the resort while preserving its historic character. Amenities include a 60' x 80' indoor mineral pool, hot soaking pool, cold plunge pool, sauna, conference space, and a newly renovated outdoor aquatic complex featuring a 128' x 60' swimming pool and outdoor hot tub completed in 2025. Accommodations include five restored guest cabins, three hotel-style guest rooms, and a 31-site RV park with full-service hookups. Guests enjoy the opportunity to relax in the pools, explore nearby recreation, or simply experience the quiet beauty of Montana's Hi-Line. Dining is anchored by 54 Prime Steakhouse and the Buffalo Saloon. Completed in 2023, the restaurant features a commercial kitchen, spacious dining areas, and outdoor patio seating, while the saloon offers a welcoming atmosphere for guests and locals alike. A 30' x 96' greenhouse supports the property's farm-to-table approach with fresh produce grown on-site. The offering includes a beautifully maintained 5,388± square foot owner's residence with four bedrooms, three bathrooms, radiant floor heat, custom woodwork, heated garage, and walk-in gun safe. A separate 1,200± square foot manager's residence, a 100' x 50' shop, and extensive infrastructure support the continued operation of the resort. Directly across the road lies Nelson Reservoir, a renowned 4,100-acre recreation destination known for walleye, northern pike, perch fishing, boating, waterfowl hunting, and year-round outdoor recreation. Nearby Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge further enhances the property's appeal. Yet the true value of Sleeping Buffalo extends beyond its improvements and amenities. It lives in the memories created here, the families who return year after year, and the generations who have gathered in its waters. For nearly a century, each steward has preserved and enhanced what makes this place special. Today, the opportunity exists for someone new to continue that legacy. Whether viewed as a premier hospitality investment, a thriving Montana resort, or a cherished community landmark, Sleeping Buffalo Hot Springs & Resort offers a rare opportunity to own and steward one of Montana's most beloved destinations.
