Chico Hot Springs Resort & Day Spa in
Pray (MT)

We booked a room for two nights and left early in the morning after one night and didn’t bother going back for the second night. After 5 hours of being there, we had an unusual amount of bad experiences, mostly customer service. This was only one, of many bad situations and the final one when we decided we were leaving. We were told the closest place to eat was Livingston after 9pm. We thought we would go to the room where we saw the vending sign only to find drinks and ice. I reached out to Chico twice about our experience and waited two weeks for their response before I wrote a review. I still haven’t heard from them.

We went for the day at the hot springs and there were two women in the saloon who were very rude all day long. As soon we walked through the door the snarky comments were made. The night staff in the saloon was much nicer. Wish my experience was better because I had higher expectations

Honestly not worth the price. The water is nice, yes, but the rooms are dated, the beds suck, there are no TVs which is kind of necessary with little kids, the wifi is so slow, and there’s very little cell service. Our dinner reservation was at 8, after being double booked for 6 and being bumped, and even then, our table wasn’t ready until 8:15. The staff were all nice but probably not somewhere I’ll rush back to, at least with kids in tow.

Review for Hot Springs only: I was expecting a relaxing soak in a hot spring pool, instead it was an incredibly crowded, loud, and gross pool that wasn't even very hot. There were children throwing things, you couldn't move in the hott(er) pool without bumping into someone else, and everyone was eating and drinking (and spilling) in the water. And the worst part was the lockers/bathroom/changing rooms - they were disgusting and only cold water came out of the showers. Not at all a relaxing experience, and I truly wish I had gone somewhere else. I felt really gross after the whole experience and couldn't wait to change and shower at home. A guide book from 1999 called it the most romantic hot spring...maybe back in the day, but certainly not now.

We had a great time! The pools were warm and comfortable even with a lot of people in them, there was always room to move around and find a little space. Our room was clean and tidy. The bed was a bit… rustic. But. In keeping with the historical aspect of the place… I didn’t expect anything different. The door to the hall is very thin and I expected to be up with hallways noise all night… and I was pleasantly surprised. It was not at all noisy. Our dinner was delightful. We ate at the fine dining downstairs. Miranda was fantastic. Friendly, efficient, and gave remarkable suggestions without being pushy. We’re already planning a return visit later this winter.

I visited the pool yesterday and unfortunately left my daughter’s float, life jacket, and beanie on the pool deck. I fully acknowledge and take responsibility for leaving these items behind. That said, the process of attempting to retrieve them has been unnecessarily frustrating and unacceptable. When I called, the lost and found voicemail was completely full, making it impossible to leave a message. After eventually reaching a staff member by phone, I was directed to contact a general email address instead. I explained that I would be able to return four days after the items were left, at which point I was told they would not be released to me. The staff member dismissed the concern by stating that if I knew how many items people leave behind, I would be shocked. This response is troubling. A high volume of forgotten items should not be used to justify poor communication, inaccessible systems, or an unwillingness to help patrons recover their belongings—especially children’s safety equipment. If lost items are so common, that only underscores the need for a clearer, more organized, and more customer-focused lost and found process. Very frustrating for a customer who can and is willing to come pick up their items.

Can’t speak about the rooms because I didn’t stay here; I only used the pool. This is just about the worst hot spring I’ve ever been to. The pool was not hot enough and it didn’t smell of volcanic mineral water, just tap water honestly. Too many kids splashing around in the adult pool when there is a much larger pool they could have been in. And the changing facilities were disgusting. Dirty diapers on the ground and unclean toilets. Several of the pool deck tiles were loose or broken. Staff treated us well, but I’ll never recommended this place to anyone. There are much better springs in the area

Terribly disorganized. We arrived and were told that our room was not ready, only to be made to wait around for four hours before being told we still don’t have a room. To make matters worse, the people who arrived with us showed up two hours after we did and were given a room immediately. During our wait, we watched 20+ guests arrive and be sent straight to their rooms. Meanwhile, my daughter was exhausted and fussy, and staff continued to give us conflicting information that felt dishonest. Completely unacceptable experience.

Comfortable rooms, Hot springs, picnic areas, horse barn, gift shop, garden. We really loved staying here and found it to be very family friendly! Thank you! We will come back again to visit.

I cannot believe how neglected the upkeep and sanitation of the pool and dressing rooms has become. There are 2 dirty bathrooms and 1 cold shower in the ladies dressing room- just addressing that alone could help with keeping the pool cleaner- on top of encouraging people to clean up their trash around the pool or have someone collecting it. Hope the new ownership starts putting more money into up keeping the facilities like the used to!

I've been coming here for 20 years and I must say I was very disappointed yesterday. We paid a lot to get the family in there and pools were warm at best. The small pool was lower 90s and the big pool was just warm. Over 5 hours I never saw anyone check the temps or pickk up all the trash along the walls. We went to the one down the road today and it was hot hot easily 105 degrees with a cold plunge. I think Chico needs to get on top of their game and fix their infrastructure and staffing.

We had an incredible New Year’s stay at Chico. It’s hard to beat the laid back yet thoughtful and cozy vibe of this place. We came with a group—all of us ended up in different areas of the property and were each happy with where we stayed. The hot springs were relaxing as always but our standout experience was in the Dining Room. Our food was delicious and our server Bethany took our experience to the next level. She was helpful, warm, and personable. Her recommendations for drinks and food hit the mark and she even told us a few fun stories about the history of the place. Chico’s a unique Montana experience we love that can’t wait to experience again soon.

We did not stay at the resort, but enjoyed the hot pools and grill. It is a fairly easy drive from Bozeman, even in the winter. The staff was super friendly and authentic, the pools were wonderful. No chlorine or sulfur stink. Changing room was clean. Overall, my family and I had a wonderful time.

Chico Hot Springs was the perfect (and chaotic) kickoff to our Montana road trip with three little kids. After hours of “Are we there yet?” and backseat negotiations, arriving at the pools felt like an oasis. The kids instantly forgot all their complaints and turned into ecstatic little fish, splashing their way through the hot springs while my wife and I did our best to pretend we were “relaxing.” It’s a beautiful, family-friendly spot that makes the mayhem totally worth it—warm water, gorgeous setting, and the kind of place that turns a long travel day into an actual memory. Our stay reminded us that family trips don’t have to be perfect to be special. Chico Hot Springs delivered exactly what we needed: a reset, some laughs, and a great story to start the journey.

I have been coming here for over 45+ years with my family. Tonight we were here to soak in the hotsprings. The water was NOT hot, barely even warm really. While soaking here tonight (11/29/25) a child vomited next to me, it was disgusting and we immediately got out. The mom informed the bartender and nothing was done. We sat in the bar and continued to watch the staff accept money and allow people (many!) Into the pool. The manager in the bar knew as well. So gross and unsanitary ?. I'm very disappointed in my visit tonight. It was cold in the dressing room (frigid cold, with ice on the floor), the child puking and the fact there were people swilling in that vomit and nothing was done...allowing others to swill in it while accepting their money, ugh...so gross. I won't be coming back to this place that my family has always loved so much ?

This was my second visit and it didn't hit the mark this time. We stayed in the Warren wing and the bathroom smelled sour/mildewy. Our room faced the main parking lot and the curtains didn't fully cover the window nor blackout headlights after dark. We arrived on a Saturday, early evening, and I was sorry I had promised my 7 and 10 year old pool time. It was a chaotic adult zoo. The small pool was packed, shoulder to shoulder with adults just getting blitzed. Drink trash everywhere - no one picking up used cups. There's no way those folks were getting out to use the restroom. There was one couple in the main pool who were engaged in sexual activity of some kind. I was grossed out pretty quickly and we quickly retreated to our room. Early Sunday morning was better. Front desk staff were very friendly as was the guy working in the poolside grill. But overall, the company now running this place don't care that they are booking too many folks for the pools or that it's not a family friendly environment in the evening. We won't likely be back any time soon because we were interested in the hot springs not a swim up bar party.

Came for the day-use pools. The $14 entry fee seemed reasonable, and the area itself is nice enough, with plenty of things to look at around the property. I even called ahead to ask if I needed to reserve anything since it was my first time. They told me “just come in and pay.” When I arrived, I went to the front reception desk because there was no clear sign pointing anywhere else. The staff member rang me up, handed me a wristband, and told me to “go through the saloon.” That was it. No explanation, no quick rundown of where things were, nothing — even though I had already said it was my first visit. Going through a full restaurant with a bag of swim gear felt awkward. Most places with hot springs have a separate entrance for day guests; this one does not. The bartender saw my wristband, pushed a buzzer door open (very prison vibe), and everyone in the bar got to watch me walk in. Still no explanation of what to do or where to go. Inside, I wasn’t expecting luxury, but I wasn’t expecting what is basically a hotel pool packed with kids either. It was crowded, felt unhygienic, and honestly reminded me more of a busy motel pool than a hot spring. If that’s what I wanted, I could have saved myself the trip. Nothing is labeled and there’s no guidance. I had to wander around trying to find a changing area. Turns out you have to go upstairs, into what looks like a hallway for hotel rooms, to find a bathroom-style space that I assume is meant for changing. There are no lockers or anywhere to store your things. I stayed a few minutes and left. I won’t be back. Montana has plenty of actual hot springs that are cleaner, clearer, and give you that relaxing experience you’re probably expecting. At least now I know.

Beautiful views! Loved the hot springs! We stayed in a cabin with a kitchen and it was well stocked. It was a great way to disconnect since there's no TV, but there's wifi. We even were able to see the Northern Lights from our cabin! Only bummer was there were a lot of flies... Both alive and dead.

We stayed in a room in the main lodge. The room was rustic, with a small bed and small bathroom. The room wasn't very clean with pet hair thru out the room and on linens. The bathroom window was left open, and the room was very cold to start. We didn't mind after we got the window closed and heat adjusted. We have pets, so the hair thru out wasn't a big deal. What gets me is the staff, the room we got was above the kitchen. The morning crew started to bang things around 6 am. It went on for 5 to 10 minutes( just long enough to keep me up for the day) I asked the front desk what was under our room and told them about the noise They said they had no idea what was under the room. I went to get coffee and checked where our window looked out. It was the kitchen. We stayed in the main lodge a few years ago and had an even worse experience from the kitchen noise early AM hours. I would like to know before we stay that the kitchen noise will wake you up. The desk lady not addressing the problem doesn't help either. The pool is great and the main reason we drive out that way. The bar is nice as well. But the rooms in the lodge are bad. And it would be great if the kitchen staff worked like people were sleeping because they are trying

Hot Spring Review ONLY - this was our stop after Yellowstone. Giving 3 stars is actually pretty generous. The hot spring is really a slightly warmed pool, it is Crowded- there are unwatched children throwing balls, screaming, and jumping into the pool constantly. All while there are a significant amount of people who have over indulged in the pool side alcohol beverage options, bringing the drinks into the pool with the unruly children. The water is warm, NOT HOT - people leave their empty cups, glasses, cans, all pool side and fish them out as they fall in the water. No employees or pool supervision in sight making it a loud and less than pleasant experience. Changing rooms are not clean, are very cramped without enough changing rooms for the number of guests.

We’ve loved Chico in the past, but unfortunately this visit was lacking in a few key areas. We stayed in Lodge Room 702 (“Reggie’s Room”), and the mattress was the worst we’ve ever slept on. It truly needs to be replaced. There was a large hump in the middle, and we both spent three uncomfortable nights fighting to stay on the bed. For a resort and spa that emphasizes relaxation and rejuvenation, the quality of the bedding should be a top priority. The room also wasn’t as clean as we’ve experienced in a prior visit, which made us wonder what has changed in Chico’s service standards. Dining was another disappointment. Last year, the restaurant was impeccable; this year, dinner was “good,” and our evening server was attentive. Options are limited if you have any food allergies, especially tree nuts. Breakfast was just average. The buffet ($22 per person) consisted of scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, pancakes, and potatoes, plus bagels and two breakfast cakes—both of which contained tree nuts, limiting options for those with allergies. Covering hot foods (like potatoes) with a folded napkin was also odd and unappetizing, especially as guests had to touch the napkin to serve themselves. At one point, we watched a staff member comment that the plates were cold, then touch several of them with an open hand. The restaurant also opened about 15 minutes late for breakfast, and after ordering coffee, it never arrived—we had to ask another server if we were expected to help ourselves. Overall, this brief escape to Chico just wasn’t the relaxing, polished experience we’ve come to expect. We truly hope management takes these concerns to heart and restores the high standards that once made Chico a favorite getaway.

The hotel has a great old western vibe. The attached hotspring pool is a classic tradition of this location with a lot of history. The staff is AWESOME! The only downside is the noise of other uncourteous customers that can be easily heard walking by your door and even being lound downstairs at reception. It is an old western building, but having unruly same floor customers will either keep you up or wake you up early. Bring ear plug. Other than that, this place is awesome and well worth a stay.

Everything was great. Rooms are old and load with noises but it adds it's own charm. Great hot springs open from 7am till 11pm. Amazing service with food, ice cream, drinks. Their Saloon has NFL ticket, and delicious burgers. Beautiful views of nature and wild life.

We stayed here as a base for daily trips into Yellowstone. Beautiful location and grounds - secluded and quiet. Definitely a throwback - if you don't go in expecting the latest technology/amenities, you won't be disappointed (I loved the nostalgia). We stayed in Fisherman's Lodge and it had everything we needed for a comfortable stay. No daily housekeeping but just let the front desk know if you need anything.The hot springs pool was sooo relaxing! The Saloon (offers local brews!) and Poolside Grill had excellent food and service but the real highlight was the historic Dining Room (be sure to make reservations well in advance). Amazing dinner selections and desserts, including a flaming orange showstopper. Looking forward to our next visit!

The hot springs pool was not hot… but warm. The room in Fisherman Lodge was decent but needed a new rug and a new bathroom door (doesn’t stay shut or open). The front desk person could not explain the hiking options but just referred us to a map. They also never explained the coffee was available in the morning in the lobby. Dinner in the dining room was outstanding (had the beef wellington). Food in the Saloon was decent but not enough staff. Had nachos and wings (wings supposed to have homemade huckleberry bbq sauce but barely any on the wings)

We were here for the hot springs and ate dinner in the bar. The restaurant service was great, the food was good and we enjoyed our soak in the hot springs. The only negative thing was the amount of dead flies that are in the water. They're very plentiful. If you forget your towel, you can pay $2.50 to use one of the resort towels. I believe if you are a guest of the resort, the towels are free. I'd recommend checking this place out if you're looking for a nice soak in the 95° or 98° degree pools!

Chico Hot Springs Resort & Spa is truly a gem! I treated myself to a birthday weekend here and had the most relaxing time. The hotel has a charming vintage feel—beautifully maintained and thoughtfully renovated to preserve its old-world character while offering modern comfort. The open-air spa was a highlight, and even with families and kids around, the atmosphere stayed friendly and peaceful. I didn’t get a chance to try all the restaurants or activities, but I absolutely loved the Saloon and the Poolside Grill—perfect spots for a snack or drink while lounging by the pool. If you’re looking for a little Montana getaway that blends history, relaxation, and fun, I highly recommend Chico!