File:ISS034-E-56987 - View of Earth.jpg — public domain
Indian Hot Springs (also called Holladay Hot Springs) flows at 118°F, emerging just 165 feet from Hot Springs Road in Graham County near Pima. This roadside thermal spring offers exceptionally easy access to warm water at 2,800 feet elevation in the Sonoran Desert.
The spring sits in low Sonoran Desert terrain where saguaro, creosote, and palo verde dominate the sparse vegetation. Annual precipitation barely reaches 10 inches with minimal snowfall at 2.3 inches, creating intensely arid conditions. The roadside location means visitors encounter minimal hiking—approach directly from the parking area.
History of Indian Hot Springs
Indian Hot Springs (Holladay Hot Springs) represents geothermal circulation through Sonoran Desert basement rocks. The 118°F temperature reflects moderate geothermal gradient in the region. The spring's dual naming reflects both historical indigenous use and historical settler place-naming patterns in Arizona.
The spring offers roadside accessibility requiring minimal preparation beyond standard day-use supplies. Nearby Riggs Lake Campground sits 32.7 kilometers away among the cool alpine forests of the Pinaleno Mountains, providing striking climate contrast. Hot Springs Road provides direct vehicular access. The area suits brief thermal water visits during regional exploration.
Is Indian Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Indian Hot Springs offers an accessible hot spring experience — great for a day trip.
Annual Precip: 9.8 in
Annual Snow: 2.3 in
January
Air 49°F · Water 118°F · +69° contrast
December
Air 49°F · Water 118°F · +69° contrast
February
Air 54°F · Water 118°F · +64° contrast
January offers 40°F more contrast than June
Recent Temperature
71.6°F
(22.0°C)
Measured Oct 30, 1940
Overview
Riggs Flat Lake is located at the end of Swift Trail, a road that winds along the top of the Pinaleno Mountains. It is a small picturesque lake, 11 acres in size, set in alpine forest and meadow.
Its cold waters are stocked during the summer with rainbow, brown and brook trout, and anglers report that the fishing is usually good. Best baits for the rainbows are corn, cheese, garlic cheese, salmon eggs, and worms. The brown and brook trout are taken on artificial lures and flies as we...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Sun protection
Limited shade in warm climate
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Riggs Lake
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
USGS Quad: THATCHER 15 · PP 492: 14.0 · NOAA: 1.0 · AMS Map: SILVER CITY
What is the water temperature at Indian Hot Springs?
Indian Hot Springs has a water temperature of 118°F (48°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Indian Hot Springs located?
Indian Hot Springs is located in Graham County, Arizona at 2,800 feet elevation, near Pima. Coordinates: 32.9980°N, 109.9010°W.
How do I get to Indian Hot Springs?
Indian Hot Springs has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being Hot Springs Road (166 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Indian Hot Springs?
Yes, Riggs Lake is located nearby (20.3 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Indian Hot Springs?
At 118°F, Indian Hot Springs 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 Indian Hot Springs crowded?
Indian Hot Springs is accessible from a paved road, making it easy to reach. Weekends and holidays may be busier — consider visiting on a weekday for a quieter experience.
What should I bring to Indian Hot Springs?
Essentials for Indian 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.