File:M 3410658 se 13 060 20200607.tif — public domain
Ojo de las Canas is a warm spring in Socorro County emerging at 79°F (25°C per USGS), only 18.8°F above the local ambient temperature. Its water is highly mineralized at 3,100 mg/L total dissolved solids, dominated by sulfate (1,800 mg/L) and calcium (530 mg/L), with an alkaline pH of 8.0.
The spring surfaces at 5,040 feet on the eastern flank of the Rio Grande rift in central New Mexico, about 300 meters from Quebradas Road. The terrain is Chihuahuan Desert grassland and creosote scrub receiving just 7 inches of rain annually with under 7 inches of snow. Broad alluvial bajadas slope away from the Magdalena and Socorro mountain ranges to the west, and sparse vegetation exposes red and tan sedimentary bedrock across the dry landscape.
History of Ojo De Las Canas
The name translates as "spring of the reeds" or "spring of the gray hairs," likely referencing vegetation at the discharge point. Documentation of this spring's history is limited. It appears in geological surveys of the Socorro area's thermal features, a region shaped by the active Rio Grande rift and the nearby Socorro magma body. No commercial development has occurred at this site.
Access requires a short walk of about 300 meters from Quebradas Road. Visit during cooler months (October through April), as summer temperatures in the Socorro area regularly exceed 100°F. Carry water and sun protection; shade is minimal. The nearest campground is Water Canyon Campground, 33 km away in the Magdalena Mountains at 6,800 feet, which is first-come, first-served and not reservable.
Is Ojo De Las Canas worth visiting?
Best for
- Overnight camping trips
- Mineral-rich therapeutic bathing
Ojo De Las Canas is well suited for overnight camping trips and mineral-rich therapeutic bathing.
Annual Precip: 7.0 in
Annual Snow: 6.7 in
January
Air 37°F · Water 79°F · +42° contrast
December
Air 38°F · Water 79°F · +41° contrast
February
Air 44°F · Water 79°F · +35° contrast
January offers 44°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
77.0°F
(25.0°C)
Measured Aug 17, 1982
The water at Ojo De Las Canas is slightly alkaline (pH 8.0) with 3100 mg/L total dissolved solids. It is notably rich in calcium (may support bone density and joint health), magnesium (known for muscle relaxation and stress relief), and sulfate (traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation).
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
Higher mineral concentration for therapeutic soaking
May support bone density and joint health
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
Iron-rich springs may support circulation
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Water Canyon Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
USGS Quad: LOMA DE LAS CANAS 7.5 · NOAA: 6.0 · AMS Map: SOCORRO
What is the water temperature at Ojo De Las Canas?
Ojo De Las Canas has a water temperature of 79°F (26°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Ojo De Las Canas located?
Ojo De Las Canas is located in Socorro County, New Mexico at 5,040 feet elevation, near Socorro. Coordinates: 34.0320°N, 106.7770°W.
How do I get to Ojo De Las Canas?
Ojo De Las Canas has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Quebradas Road (0.2 mi from the road).
Can I camp near Ojo De Las Canas?
Yes, Water Canyon Campground is located nearby (20.4 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Ojo De Las Canas?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride, Iron. The pH is 8.0 (slightly alkaline). Total dissolved solids measure 3,100 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at Ojo De Las Canas?
Ojo De Las Canas is generally safe for soaking at its recorded 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 Ojo De Las Canas crowded?
Ojo De Las Canas sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Ojo De Las Canas?
Essentials for Ojo De Las Canas: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.