File:Mapped to Tonto Natural Bridge State Park, Tonto National Forest, Payson, AZ 85547, USA - panoramio.jpg — cc by 3.0
Tonto Natural Bridge Spring emerges at 72°F near Pine at 4,600 feet elevation, running 13 degrees above ambient in Arizona's Mogollon Rim country.
Ponderosa pine forests and high elevation landscapes surround this short-walk spring. The waters emerge near one of Arizona's most spectacular geological formations—the natural bridge—accessible with just a 775-foot walk from the nearest road.
History of Tonto Natural Bridge Spring
The spring feeds waters through Arizona's transitional terrain where the Mogollon Rim creates dramatic elevation changes and climate shifts. Geothermally heated groundwater rises through mountain geology to create this modest thermal feature.
A short walk of about 775 feet from the road provides easy access. Houston Mesa Campground sits 13.9 kilometers away in the adjacent forested Tonto National Forest with family and equestrian sites available by reservation.
Is Tonto Natural Bridge Spring worth visiting?
Tonto Natural Bridge Spring is well suited for overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 16.8 in
Annual Snow: 15.5 in
January
Air 40°F · Water 72°F · +32° contrast
December
Air 40°F · Water 72°F · +32° contrast
February
Air 43°F · Water 72°F · +29° contrast
January offers 38°F more contrast than July
Overview
Houston Mesa Campground is located in the forested northern section of Tonto National Forest, just one mile north of Payson, Arizona and less than two hours from Phoenix.
With family, equestrian and tent-only campsites, this campground can accommodate a range of visitors and offers plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors, including several miles of hiking and horseback riding trails nearby.
As the fifth largest forest in the United States, the Tonto National Forest is one of the most...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Houston Mesa
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
USGS Quad: BUCKHEAD MESA 7.5 · NOAA: 4.0 · AMS Map: HOLBROOK
What is the water temperature at Tonto Natural Bridge Spring?
Tonto Natural Bridge Spring has a water temperature of 72°F (22°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Tonto Natural Bridge Spring located?
Tonto Natural Bridge Spring is located in Gila County, Arizona at 4,600 feet elevation, near Pine. Coordinates: 34.3200°N, 111.4530°W.
How do I get to Tonto Natural Bridge Spring?
Tonto Natural Bridge Spring has Short Walk road access (0.1 mi from the road).
Can I camp near Tonto Natural Bridge Spring?
Yes, Houston Mesa is located nearby (8.6 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Tonto Natural Bridge Spring?
Tonto Natural Bridge Spring 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 Tonto Natural Bridge Spring crowded?
Tonto Natural Bridge Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Tonto Natural Bridge Spring?
Essentials for Tonto Natural Bridge Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.