The name comes from its dark orange appearance caused by orange cyanobacteria living on the travertine, the rock that it is made of.

The Orange Mound Spring is arguably most notable for its prominence above the ground, compared to the rest of the Mammoth Hot Springs, which are mostly flat and leveled terraces.

It was named by early Yellowstone assistant superintendent and guide, G.L.

Depending on the nutrients that the bacteria receive, the color may change throughout the year.

It has created other nearby cone-shaped springs from itself due to the travertine deposits wearing away.