Warm Spring flows at 73°F near Morenci in Greenlee County, running 12 degrees above ambient at 3,620 feet elevation in BLM canyon country.
The spring emerges in rugged Gila River canyon terrain where high desert transitions to mountain zones. A short 640-foot walk from Black River Road leads through riparian vegetation to this modest thermal feature overlooking the river.
History of Warm Spring
USGS analysis confirms slightly alkaline conditions with moderate mineral content typical of desert groundwater circulation. The spring's 12-degree temperature rise reflects gradual heating through typical crustal circulation in the transition zone between high desert and mountains.
A short walk from Black River Road provides easy access to this BLM-managed site. Riverview Campground 19 kilometers away offers first-come camping in the Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area with 13 sites along the river and a 14-day stay limit.
Is Warm Spring worth visiting?
Warm Spring is well suited for overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 10.9 in
Annual Snow: 4.2 in
January
Air 40°F · Water 73°F · +33° contrast
December
Air 41°F · Water 73°F · +33° contrast
February
Air 45°F · Water 73°F · +29° contrast
January offers 40°F more contrast than July
Riverview Campground offers a fantastic camping experience in the Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area and is a short drive from Safford, Arizona. It is situated on a northern bench overlooking the Gila River and is surrounded by various day use sites along the river. There are 13 first come, first served campsites at Riverview Campground. Each site has picnic tables, fire rings, grills, and shade structures. The campsites were recently enlarged to improve access for trailers and RVs....
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 Riverview Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
USGS Quad: (CLIFTON 15) · NOAA: 5.0 · AMS Map: CLIFTON
What is the water temperature at Warm Spring?
Warm Spring has a water temperature of 73°F (23°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Warm Spring located?
Warm Spring is located in Greenlee County, Arizona at 3,620 feet elevation, near Morenci. Coordinates: 33.0620°N, 109.4820°W.
How do I get to Warm Spring?
Warm Spring has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Black River Road (0.1 mi from the road).
Is Warm Spring free to visit?
Warm Spring has Open access. It is managed by Bureau of Land Management.
Can I camp near Warm Spring?
Yes, Riverview Campground is located nearby (12.1 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Warm Spring?
Warm Spring is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Warm Spring crowded?
Warm Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Warm Spring?
Essentials for Warm Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.