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Ojo Caliente's Arsenic Spring discharges at 111°F (40°C confirmed by USGS) through water unusually high in sodium (890 mg/L) and chloride (270 mg/L) at a slightly acidic pH of 6.6. Located at 6,220 feet in Rio Arriba County, the spring sits about 100 meters from the road, requiring a short walk to reach.
The spring emerges in the semi-arid Rio Grande rift valley of northern New Mexico, surrounded by dry piñon-juniper terrain at 6,220 feet. Annual rainfall averages just 9.6 inches with 21 inches of snow. The town of Ohkay Owingeh lies nearby to the east, and the Rio Ojo Caliente cuts through the valley floor. Sparse desert scrub and exposed sedimentary bluffs define the landscape, with the Sangre de Cristo foothills visible to the northeast.
History of Ojo Caliente (Arsenic Spring)
Ojo Caliente's thermal springs have been used by Indigenous peoples of the region for centuries. The name translates from Spanish as "hot eye" or "hot spring." The Arsenic Spring is one of several distinct mineral sources in the Ojo Caliente group, each named for its dominant chemistry. A commercial spa has operated at the site since the late 1800s, making it one of the oldest health resorts in the United States.
Visit fall through spring when desert temperatures are moderate; summer highs above 90°F can make the short walk uncomfortable. The area receives minimal precipitation, but winter snow is possible at 6,220 feet. Check current access policies with the resort operating at the springs, as the thermal features fall within managed property. Riana Campground at Abiquiu Lake, 35 km away, provides the nearest reservable camping.
Is Ojo Caliente (Arsenic Spring) worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Overnight camping trips
Ojo Caliente (Arsenic Spring) is well suited for hot spring soaking and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 9.6 in
Annual Snow: 21.2 in
January
Air 26°F · Water 111°F · +85° contrast
December
Air 28°F · Water 111°F · +83° contrast
February
Air 32°F · Water 111°F · +80° contrast
January offers 47°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
104.0°F
(40.0°C)
Measured Dec 03, 1974
The water at Ojo Caliente (Arsenic Spring) is slightly acidic (pH 6.6). It is notably rich in sodium (supports circulation and skin hydration) and chloride (natural antiseptic with skin health benefits).
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
Overview
Riana Campground is located on a 150 ft. bluff overlooking the scenic Abiquiu Lake in northern New Mexico, just one hour northwest of charming Santa Fe. The lake sits at an elevation of 6,400 feet on the Rio Chama, a tributary of the legendary Rio Grande. Recreation
Abiquiu Lake offers many opportunities for outdoor recreation. The fishing here is some of the finest in northern New Mexico.
Visitors enjoy boating, water skiing, and hiking. Lake shore access for boat launching is 1 m...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Riana Abiquiu Lake
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
0 miles from Ohkay Owingeh, NM
USGS Quad: OJO CALIENTE 7.5 · PP 492: 8.0 · NOAA: 2.0 · AMS Map: AZTEC
What is the water temperature at Ojo Caliente (Arsenic Spring)?
Ojo Caliente (Arsenic Spring) has a water temperature of 111°F (44°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Ojo Caliente (Arsenic Spring) located?
Ojo Caliente (Arsenic Spring) is located in Rio Arriba County, New Mexico at 6,220 feet elevation, near Ohkay Owingeh. Coordinates: 36.3050°N, 106.0530°W.
How do I get to Ojo Caliente (Arsenic Spring)?
Ojo Caliente (Arsenic Spring) has Short Walk road access (331 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Ojo Caliente (Arsenic Spring)?
Yes, Riana Abiquiu Lake is located nearby (21.7 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Ojo Caliente (Arsenic Spring)?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Sodium, Chloride. The pH is 6.6 (slightly acidic).
Is it safe to soak at Ojo Caliente (Arsenic Spring)?
At 111°F, Ojo Caliente (Arsenic Spring) 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 Ojo Caliente (Arsenic Spring) crowded?
Ojo Caliente (Arsenic Spring) sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Ojo Caliente (Arsenic Spring)?
Essentials for Ojo Caliente (Arsenic Spring): 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.