File:(ARIZONA-A-0067) Roosevelt Dam.jpg — cc by-sa 2.0
Roosevelt Dam Springs emerges at 118°F just 37 feet from the scenic Apache Trail, making it one of Arizona's most accessible hot springs while flowing 47 degrees above the 71°F average annual temperature. This roadside thermal feature attracts visitors driving one of the Southwest's most dramatic scenic routes.
The spring sits at 1,977 feet elevation within Tonto National Forest's ponderosa and pinyon-juniper landscape. Water emerges right beside the Apache Trail, which winds along the Salt River recreation corridor connecting the Phoenix area to the Salt River Valley. The immediate setting blends desert and mountain ecosystems, with elevation creating cooler air and modest precipitation compared to lower Arizona valleys.
History of Roosevelt Dam Springs
Roosevelt Dam Springs' heat reflects circulation through fault systems in the central Arizona mountains. The spring sits downstream from Theodore Roosevelt Dam, built in 1911 to control Salt River flows for agriculture and power generation. The area's thermal activity aligns with the Basin and Range geological province, where active crustal stretching creates thermal gradients deep underground.
Roadside parking allows direct vehicle access with only about 120 feet to walk. The spring is open year-round and free to visit. Best visit timing targets spring and fall when mountain air temperatures moderate to comfortable ranges. The Apache Trail itself offers stunning scenery and remains a popular day-drive destination from Phoenix and Tucson.
Is Roosevelt Dam Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Roosevelt Dam Springs offers an accessible hot spring experience — great for a day trip.
Annual Precip: 13.8 in
Annual Snow: 4.7 in
January
Air 51°F · Water 118°F · +68° contrast
December
Air 51°F · Water 118°F · +68° contrast
February
Air 54°F · Water 118°F · +64° contrast
January offers 41°F more contrast than July
Overview
The Frazier Horse Campground is nestled into a Sonoran desert landscape at Roosevelt Lake, one of Arizona's most outstanding water-based recreation areas. The lake is the largest of four reservoirs within a 2-hour drive of Phoenix and Tucson. The facility has the first lakeside horse camp built in the Southwestern Region of the Forest Service. From the recreation site, trail users access the Arizona Trail, an 800-mile (1,287-kilometer), non-motorized trail. Recreation
Bring your ho...
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 Frazier Horse Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
0 miles from Tonto Basin, AZ
USGS Quad: THEODORE ROOSEVELT DAM 7.5 · NOAA: 1.0 · AMS Map: MESA
What is the water temperature at Roosevelt Dam Springs?
Roosevelt Dam Springs has a water temperature of 118°F (48°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Roosevelt Dam Springs located?
Roosevelt Dam Springs is located in Gila County, Arizona at 1,977 feet elevation, near Tonto Basin. Coordinates: 33.6690°N, 111.1650°W.
How do I get to Roosevelt Dam Springs?
Roosevelt Dam Springs has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being Apache Trail (121 ft from the road).
Is Roosevelt Dam Springs free to visit?
Roosevelt Dam Springs has Open access. It is managed by US Forest Service.
Can I camp near Roosevelt Dam Springs?
Yes, Frazier Horse Campground is located nearby (2.1 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Roosevelt Dam Springs?
At 118°F, Roosevelt Dam Springs is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Roosevelt Dam Springs crowded?
Roosevelt Dam 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 Roosevelt Dam Springs?
Essentials for Roosevelt Dam 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.