180°F3,330 ftOpenShort WalkBureau of Land ManagementCamping nearby (2.5 mi)
Very Hot Source — Use Extreme Caution
At 180°F, the source water at Gillard Hot Springs is hot enough to cause burns. Some hot springs this hot have cooler side pools or downstream areas suitable for soaking — always test the water temperature before entering.
File:Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area (55125842464).jpg — public domain
Gillard Hot Springs emerges at an extreme 180 degrees Fahrenheit on BLM public lands in Greenlee County near Clifton, representing one of Arizona's highest-temperature thermal features flowing 114 degrees warmer than ambient air and ranking among the state's most geothermally significant springs.
The spring sits at 3,330 feet elevation in rugged southeastern Arizona terrain receiving 12 inches of annual precipitation including nearly five inches of winter snow. The immediate landscape showcases the high-desert environment with grasslands and scattered woodland vegetation surrounding this exceptionally hot thermal feature.
History of Gillard Hot Springs
Located within the Safford Field Office management area of BLM lands, Gillard Hot Springs reflects significant geothermal activity in southeastern Arizona's Basin and Range structure. The extreme temperature indicates access to exceptionally hot deep-crustal water, making this spring one of the state's most geologically significant thermal resources.
A short 625-foot walk from nearest BLM road access provides entry to this dangerously hot thermal feature; extreme caution is essential due to 180-degree water temperature capable of causing severe burns. Visit only during cool-weather seasons (November through April) with proper safety equipment and awareness; this spring requires respect for its extreme thermal energy and appropriate protective measures.
Is Gillard Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Gillard Hot Springs is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and overnight camping trips.
Monthly Climate
45°Jan
50°Feb
57°Mar
65°Apr
75°May
84°Jun
86°Jul
84°Aug
78°Sep
67°Oct
55°Nov
45°Dec
Annual Precip: 12.0 inAnnual Snow: 4.9 in
Best Time to Visit
JanuaryAir 45°F · Water 180°F · +135° contrast
DecemberAir 45°F · Water 180°F · +135° contrast
FebruaryAir 50°F · Water 180°F · +131° contrast
January offers 40°F more contrast than July
Nearby Camping
Owl Creek Campground2.5 mi away
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 limitIn 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.
What is the water temperature at Gillard Hot Springs?
Gillard Hot Springs has a water temperature of 180°F (82°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Gillard Hot Springs located?
Gillard Hot Springs is located in Greenlee County, Arizona at 3,330 feet elevation, near Clifton. Coordinates: 32.9710°N, 109.3500°W.
How do I get to Gillard Hot Springs?
Gillard Hot Springs has Short Walk road access (0.1 mi from the road).
Is Gillard Hot Springs free to visit?
Gillard Hot Springs has Open access. It is managed by Bureau of Land Management.
Can I camp near Gillard Hot Springs?
Yes, Owl Creek Campground is located nearby (2.5 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Gillard Hot Springs?
The water at Gillard Hot Springs reaches 180°F, which can cause severe burns. Do not enter the source pool directly — look for cooled side pools or downstream areas where the water has cooled to a safe temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Gillard Hot Springs crowded?
Gillard Hot Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Gillard Hot Springs?
Essentials for Gillard Hot Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in. The water is over 110°F — test the temperature before entering and watch for scalding near the source.
Temperature
180°F
WarmHotBoiling
Water Temp180°F (82°C)
Avg Air Temp66°F
Above Ambient+114°F
Great soaking conditionsMarch
Access
Open
Road AccessShort Walk
Distance to Road0.1 mi
Land
OwnershipFederal
AgencyBureau of Land Management
DesignationPUB
UnitSafford Field Office
ManagerBureau of Land Management
Protection3 - Protected, subject to extractive use
