Sand Springs gets its name for the wide expanse of sandy soil and the life-giving springs in the area. Sand Springs was once part of the N-N range. Later, Fred Allen, the first settler became US Commissioner and eager homesteaders poured in. Allen had a store, a rooming house, and a dancehall. (from Cheney's Names on the Face of Montana, Mountain Press Publishing Company) Sand Spring's recent history evolves from early occupation by large cattle, sheep and horse ranches at the turn of the 20th century. These were soon followed by the influx of homesteaders in the 1910s and '20s. Those who made it through the 1930s stayed to build a strong agricultural community. Major products of the area include small grains and livestock. Sand Springs is located in the Garfield County, over thirty miles from the nearest town. The farmable acres in this area are some of the richest, most productive soils in the county; however, much of the land is suitable only for grazing due to the terrain. Today, the land around Sand Springs is used predominately by sheep and cattle ranchers. The largest growing segment of Garfield County's economy is recreation. There are excellent fishing, hunting, camping and boating opportunities available all year long.