Warm Springs (Moffat County, Colorado)

Rio Blanco County County, Colorado · Near Rangely
40.5316°N, 108.9287°W
Open Hike NPS Camping nearby (3.4 mi)

Warm Springs in Rio Blanco County flows at 70 degrees Fahrenheit within the protected boundaries of Dinosaur National Monument near Rangely. This thermal feature sits on permanently protected National Park Service land managed for nature preservation, combining geothermal interest with major river-canyon scenery.

The spring requires nearly two kilometers of hiking through Dinosaur National Monument terrain to reach, rewarding visitors with access to the Green River corridor and spectacular canyon walls. The landscape reveals the dramatic geological formations that define the monument, with the warm water emerging among cooler mountain streams. The setting emphasizes the integration of the thermal feature within the broader canyon ecosystem.

History of Warm Springs (Moffat County, Colorado)

Dinosaur National Monument's thermal springs reflect deep circulation through ancient Precambrian rocks exposed along the Green River gorge. The water chemistry shows alkaline conditions with pH 8.8 and moderate total dissolved solids of 211 mg/L, indicating gentle mineralization typical of springs along major river valleys. The monument's protected status preserves these geothermal resources for scientific study and visitor experience.

Access requires hiking approximately two kilometers into Dinosaur National Monument from Echo Park, a destination requiring substantial effort and planning. The National Park Service maintains this protected landscape, requiring visitors to respect monument regulations. Echo Park Campground provides the nearest accommodations, sitting just five kilometers away and offering both individual and group camping with seasonal services.

Is Warm Springs (Moffat County, Colorado) worth visiting?

Best for

  • Overnight camping trips
Warm Springs (Moffat County, Colorado) is well suited for overnight camping trips.
Monthly Climate
22°
Jan
27°
Feb
39°
Mar
48°
Apr
59°
May
74°
Jun
81°
Jul
78°
Aug
69°
Sep
52°
Oct
38°
Nov
24°
Dec
Annual Precip: 12.0 in Annual Snow: 41.9 in
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature 69.8°F (21.0°C) Measured Sep 06, 1983
Water Chemistry Sampled 1983-09-06

The water at Warm Springs (Moffat County, Colorado) is alkaline (pH 8.8) with 211 mg/L total dissolved solids. It is notably rich in magnesium (known for muscle relaxation and stress relief).

pH 8.8 Alkaline
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
Higher mineral concentration for therapeutic soaking
Calcium 35 mg/L
May support bone density and joint health
Magnesium 32 mg/L
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Sodium 7 mg/L
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Sulfate 21 mg/L
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Chloride 6 mg/L
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
Nearby Camping
Echo Park Campground 3.4 mi away

Overview Echo Park Campground is located adjacent to the Green River. There are vault toilets, drinking water spigots (seasonal), and a self-pay station. This location has both first-come first-served individual sites and a group site: Individual sites. Individual sites are all first come, first served.  Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a first-come first-served site. Once on site, you can pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using...

Reservable Yes
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
What to Bring
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear Nearby camping at Echo Park Campground
Trash bag Pack out what you pack in
References
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Warm Springs (Moffat County, Colorado) located?
Warm Springs (Moffat County, Colorado) is located in Rio Blanco County, Colorado, near Rangely. Coordinates: 40.5316°N, 108.9287°W.
How do I get to Warm Springs (Moffat County, Colorado)?
Warm Springs (Moffat County, Colorado) has Hike road access (1.2 mi from the road).
Is Warm Springs (Moffat County, Colorado) free to visit?
Warm Springs (Moffat County, Colorado) has Open access. It is managed by NPS.
Can I camp near Warm Springs (Moffat County, Colorado)?
Yes, Echo Park Campground is located nearby (3.4 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Warm Springs (Moffat County, Colorado)?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 8.8 (alkaline). Total dissolved solids measure 211 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at Warm Springs (Moffat County, Colorado)?
Warm Springs (Moffat County, Colorado) is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Warm Springs (Moffat County, Colorado) crowded?
Warm Springs (Moffat County, Colorado) sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Warm Springs (Moffat County, Colorado)?
Essentials for Warm Springs (Moffat County, Colorado): swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.
Temperature
No data recorded
Avg Air Temp 51°F
Access
Open
Road Access Hike
Distance to Road 1.2 mi
Land
Ownership FED
Agency NPS
Designation NM
Unit Dinosaur National Monument
Manager NPS
Protection 1 - Permanently protected, managed for nature