Eagle Creek Hot Springs flows at 97 degrees Fahrenheit near Morenci in Greenlee County at 3,620 feet elevation, emerging approximately 32 degrees warmer than ambient air temperatures in southeastern Arizona's rugged mining region.
The spring sits in high-elevation terrain supporting grasslands and scattered woodland vegetation rather than low-desert landscape, receiving 11.3 inches of annual precipitation including four inches of winter snow. A 200-meter walk from the nearest road provides access through terrain shaped by copper mining heritage and dramatic topography.
History of Eagle Creek Hot Springs
Eagle Creek's location reflects Greenlee County's geological character shaped by mineral deposits and mining operations spanning over a century. The spring's thermal characteristics indicate moderate geothermal resources in this portion of Arizona's Basin and Range physiography.
A short walk of 656 feet from established roads near Morenci provides reasonable access to this thermal feature. Plan visits during mild seasons; the area's elevation and northern latitude create cooler temperatures than southern Arizona springs, making fall and spring seasons ideal for soaking comfort.
Is Eagle Creek Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Warm-water soaking
- Overnight camping trips
Eagle Creek Hot Springs is well suited for warm-water soaking and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 11.3 in
Annual Snow: 4.1 in
January
Air 44°F · Water 97°F · +53° contrast
December
Air 44°F · Water 97°F · +53° contrast
February
Air 48°F · Water 97°F · +49° contrast
January offers 40°F more contrast than July
Located in the Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area in Arizona, Owl Creek Campground has seven campsites, picnic tables, grills, ramadas, trash receptacles, and restroom facilities available to make your stay more enjoyable. There is no potable water available at the campground. Three of the campsites are pull-through sites, and four are pull-in sites, making the campground suitable for trailers and RVS. The campground is a stop on the Black Hills Back Country Byway, and it is also j...
Stay limit
In the Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area, camping at developed sites — and primitive camping elsewhere — is limited to 14 consecutive days in a 28-day period.
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Owl Creek Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
USGS Quad: CLIFTON 15 · PP 492: 16.0 · Circ 790: 30.0 · NOAA: 7.0 · AMS Map: CLIFTON
What is the water temperature at Eagle Creek Hot Springs?
Eagle Creek Hot Springs has a water temperature of 97°F (36°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Eagle Creek Hot Springs located?
Eagle Creek Hot Springs is located in Greenlee County, Arizona at 3,620 feet elevation, near Morenci. Coordinates: 33.0460°N, 109.4400°W.
How do I get to Eagle Creek Hot Springs?
Eagle Creek Hot Springs has Short Walk road access (0.1 mi from the road).
Can I camp near Eagle Creek Hot Springs?
Yes, Owl Creek Campground is located nearby (9.5 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Eagle Creek Hot Springs?
Eagle Creek Hot Springs is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Eagle Creek Hot Springs crowded?
Eagle Creek Hot Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Eagle Creek Hot Springs?
Essentials for Eagle Creek Hot Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.