Coolidge Dam Warm Spring
Coolidge Dam Warm Spring emerges at 99 degrees Fahrenheit on the San Carlos Apache Reservation in Gila County, flowing approximately 30 degrees warmer than ambient air in high Sonoran Desert terrain at 2,345 feet elevation near a major early 20th-century water infrastructure project.
The spring's landscape reflects San Carlos Reservation terrain with characteristic Sonoran Desert vegetation including saguaro cacti, creosote bush, and palo verde trees. Terrain receives 12.1 inches of annual precipitation with minor winter snow, creating the hot, dry conditions typical of Arizona's interior desert basins.
Located near Coolidge Dam, one of Arizona's earliest major water resource development projects completed in the 1920s, this spring sits in historically significant terrain. The reservation lands have sustained indigenous communities for centuries, and water features held cultural and practical significance long before modern development.
Access requires permission from the San Carlos Apache Reservation due to tribal land designation; contact the San Carlos Apache administration for current visitor protocols. The short walk of 386 feet from nearest road access, combined with 99-degree water, makes this feature accessible but requiring advance planning for reservation entry.
Is Coolidge Dam Warm Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Warm-water soaking
- Overnight camping trips
Overview Kellner Group Site is nestled at the base of the beautiful Pinal Mountains south of Globe, Arizona. Several picnic areas are separeted from the larger group area creating a semi-secluded setting. This site's interesting rock walls and steps were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. It sits in the riparian area of Kellner Canyon, which frequently has a small stream running through it following winter runoff.Recreation Kellner Group Site recreation opportunities include hiking,...