This intensely mineralized spring near Clifton reaches 138°F, emerging with the highest salinity concentrations of Arizona's documented thermal waters at 13,900 mg/L total dissolved solids. The extreme chemistry creates a distinctive geochemical environment in Greenlee County.
The spring sits at 3,500 feet elevation requiring only 160 meters of walking access, making it accessible for casual visits. The water displays remarkable mineralization with 7,000 mg/L chloride dominance, creating a unique hydrochemical environment. The surrounding terrain reflects the transition between desert and higher elevation landscapes.
History of Hot Spring
This thermal spring's extreme salinity mirrors nearby Clifton Hot Springs, indicating a common deep thermal aquifer. The 138°F temperature and extraordinary dissolved solids concentration suggest circulation through deeply buried, intensely mineralized rock formations. The chloride dominance indicates interaction with ancient evaporite sequences.
The spring sits in the Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area with 14-consecutive-day camping limits per 28-day periods. Owl Creek Campground lies 12.7 kilometers away offering BLM-managed facilities. The spring's intense mineralization means the water carries substantial salt content unsuitable for drinking without treatment.
Is Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Overnight camping trips
- Mineral-rich therapeutic bathing
Hot Spring is well suited for hot spring soaking and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 12.0 in
Annual Snow: 4.9 in
January
Air 44°F · Water 138°F · +94° contrast
December
Air 44°F · Water 138°F · +94° contrast
February
Air 49°F · Water 138°F · +89° contrast
January offers 40°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
159.8°F
(71.0°C)
Measured Jun 22, 1978
The water at Hot Spring contains 13900 mg/L total dissolved solids. It is notably rich in calcium (may support bone density and joint health), sodium (supports circulation and skin hydration), and chloride (natural antiseptic with skin health benefits).
Higher mineral concentration for therapeutic soaking
May support bone density and joint health
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
Iron-rich springs may support circulation
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
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
USGS Quad: CLIFTON 15 · Circ 790: 31.0 · NOAA: 2.0 · AMS Map: CLIFTON
What is the water temperature at Hot Spring?
Hot Spring has a water temperature of 138°F (59°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Hot Spring located?
Hot Spring is located in Greenlee County, Arizona at 3,500 feet elevation, near Clifton. Coordinates: 33.0800°N, 109.3030°W.
How do I get to Hot Spring?
Hot Spring has Short Walk road access (0.1 mi from the road).
Can I camp near Hot Spring?
Yes, Owl Creek Campground is located nearby (7.9 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Hot Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride, Iron. Total dissolved solids measure 13,900 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at Hot Spring?
At 138°F, Hot Spring is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Hot Spring crowded?
Hot Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Hot Spring?
Essentials for Hot Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, 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.