Lyons Hunting Lodge Hot Springs flows at 126 degrees Fahrenheit in Grant County, New Mexico, with USGS-confirmed temperature of 52 degrees Celsius. At 5,800 feet elevation along East Fork Road, the spring sits 93 meters from the road. Water is mildly alkaline at pH 8.1 with low sulfate (22 mg/L) and moderate chloride (59 mg/L).
The spring emerges in the forested canyon country of the upper Gila River watershed, where the East Fork of the Gila River cuts through volcanic terrain. At 5,800 feet, ponderosa pine and mixed conifer forests cover the surrounding mountains, with cottonwoods and willows lining the river. Annual precipitation of 15.3 inches and 18.1 inches of snow make this one of the wetter zones in southwestern New Mexico. The Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument lies roughly 15 miles to the north.
History of Lyons Hunting Lodge Hot Springs
The name references a hunting lodge once operated in this remote stretch of the Gila country, where big game hunting has drawn sportsmen since the territorial period. The Gila Wilderness, designated in 1924 as the world's first official wilderness area through Aldo Leopold's advocacy, encompasses much of the surrounding terrain. The hot spring has been used informally by hikers and hunters for decades.
Forks Campground sits just 2.6 km away along the West Fork of the Gila River, with free first-come, first-served sites (overnight camping in upper section only; lower section is day-use). The Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument is 15 miles north. NM Highway 15 to this area is winding and slow. Water temperature of 126 degrees requires caution; test before entering.
Is Lyons Hunting Lodge Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Lyons Hunting Lodge Hot Springs offers an accessible hot spring experience — great for a day trip.
Annual Precip: 15.3 in
Annual Snow: 18.1 in
January
Air 37°F · Water 126°F · +89° contrast
December
Air 38°F · Water 126°F · +88° contrast
February
Air 42°F · Water 126°F · +85° contrast
January offers 39°F more contrast than June
Recent Temperature
125.6°F
(52.0°C)
Measured Jun 23, 1957
The water at Lyons Hunting Lodge Hot Springs is slightly alkaline (pH 8.1).
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
This campground features beautiful cliffs along the West Fork of the Gila River.This campground is a great place to stop on the way to the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument (15 miles north). Overnight camping is allowed in the upper portion of Forks; however, the lower portion of the Forks Recreation Site along the West Fork of the Gila River is day use only.
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Forks Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
2 miles from Arenas Valley, NM
USGS Quad: (GILA HOT SPRINGS 7.5) · PP 492: 31.0 · NOAA: 13.0 · AMS Map: CLIFTON
What is the water temperature at Lyons Hunting Lodge Hot Springs?
Lyons Hunting Lodge Hot Springs has a water temperature of 126°F (52°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Lyons Hunting Lodge Hot Springs located?
Lyons Hunting Lodge Hot Springs is located in Grant County, New Mexico at 5,800 feet elevation, near Arenas Valley. Coordinates: 33.1920°N, 108.1800°W.
How do I get to Lyons Hunting Lodge Hot Springs?
Lyons Hunting Lodge Hot Springs has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being East Fork Road (306 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Lyons Hunting Lodge Hot Springs?
Yes, Forks Campground is located nearby (1.6 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Lyons Hunting Lodge Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 8.1 (slightly alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Lyons Hunting Lodge Hot Springs?
At 126°F, Lyons Hunting Lodge Hot Springs is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Lyons Hunting Lodge Hot Springs crowded?
Lyons Hunting Lodge Hot 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 Lyons Hunting Lodge Hot Springs?
Essentials for Lyons Hunting Lodge Hot 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.