At 169°F, the source water at Jemez Springs is hot enough to cause burns. Some hot springs this hot have cooler side pools or downstream areas suitable for soaking — always test the water temperature before entering.
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Jemez Springs reaches 169 degrees Fahrenheit, one of New Mexico's hottest thermal discharges, with USGS measurements confirming 72 degrees Celsius. The spring flows at 6,207 feet elevation in the village of Jemez Springs, Sandoval County, with roadside access just 24 meters from the road. Water chemistry shows a neutral pH of 7.3.
The spring emerges in the narrow canyon of the Jemez River, carved through layers of volcanic tuff deposited by the Valles Caldera eruptions. At 6,207 feet, ponderosa pine and Douglas fir line the canyon walls while cottonwoods shade the river corridor. The Jemez Mountains receive 15.8 inches of rain and 34.2 inches of snow annually. The Valles Caldera National Preserve lies to the north, and the Jemez National Recreation Area surrounds the village.
History of Jemez Springs
The village of Jemez Springs developed around these thermal waters, with bathhouse use dating back well over a century. The Jemez State Monument preserves the ruins of Giusewa Pueblo and a seventeenth-century Spanish mission church adjacent to the springs. Today the village hosts the Jemez Springs Bath House, a municipally operated facility, along with several private spas drawing from the geothermal resource.
Jemez Springs village is accessible via NM Highway 4, which also leads to the Valles Caldera and the Jemez National Recreation Area. Vista Linda Campground sits 6.9 km away with 13 reservable sites. Winter road conditions in the canyon can be icy. The spring water is dangerously hot at 169 degrees Fahrenheit; use only developed bathhouse facilities where water is cooled for safe soaking.
Is Jemez Springs worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Easy day trips
Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Jemez Springs is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and easy day trips.
Monthly Climate
29°Jan
34°Feb
44°Mar
52°Apr
60°May
73°Jun
74°Jul
72°Aug
66°Sep
54°Oct
42°Nov
30°Dec
Annual Precip: 15.8 inAnnual Snow: 34.2 in
Best Time to Visit
JanuaryAir 29°F · Water 169°F · +140° contrast
DecemberAir 30°F · Water 169°F · +139° contrast
FebruaryAir 34°F · Water 169°F · +135° contrast
January offers 45°F more contrast than July
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature
161.6°F
(72.0°C)Measured Jul 15, 1975
Water ChemistrySampled 1975-08-07
The water at Jemez Springs is slightly alkaline (pH 7.3). It is notably rich in chloride (natural antiseptic with skin health benefits).
Overview
Vista Linda Campground is a first come, first serve campground in the San Diego Canyon on the Jemez National Recreation Area. There are thirteen sites throughout the campground. Potable water and vault toilets are provided amenities. Each campsite has picnic tables, a fire ring, and a charcoal pedestal. Sites with shad features are available; not all sites provide shade features.
Recreation
Vista Linda Campground is one of five developed campgrounds in the Jemez National Recreation...
Jemez Springs has a water temperature of 169°F (76°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Jemez Springs located?
Jemez Springs is located in Sandoval County, New Mexico at 6,207 feet elevation, near Jemez Pueblo. Coordinates: 35.7720°N, 106.6900°W.
How do I get to Jemez Springs?
Jemez Springs has Roadside road access (80 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Jemez Springs?
Yes, Vista Linda Campground is located nearby (4.3 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Jemez Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Chloride. The pH is 7.3 (slightly alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Jemez Springs?
The water at Jemez Springs reaches 169°F, which can cause severe burns. Do not enter the source pool directly — look for cooled side pools or downstream areas where the water has cooled to a safe 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 Jemez Springs crowded?
Jemez 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 Jemez Springs?
Essentials for Jemez Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, 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.
