San Ysidro Hot Springs
San Ysidro Hot Springs delivers 85°F thermal water with remarkably high sodium (3,000 mg/L) and chloride (2,400 mg/L) concentrations at 5,612 feet elevation in Sandoval County. Located a short walk from North Access road, the spring runs about 30°F above average annual air temperature. USGS measurements confirm a steady 25°C output.
The spring sits in the semi-arid Jemez River valley at the western edge of the Jemez Mountains, surrounded by piñon-juniper woodland and red sandstone bluffs. Annual rainfall averages just 9.4 inches with 14.6 inches of snow. The Rio Jemez flows nearby, cutting through volcanic and sedimentary terrain. Jemez Pueblo lies to the east, and the broader landscape transitions from high desert grassland into forested mountain slopes as elevation climbs toward the caldera.
The spring takes its name from the nearby village of San Ysidro, a historic crossroads community at the mouth of Jemez Canyon. The Jemez Pueblo people have occupied this region for centuries, and the thermal waters along this corridor have long been known to local populations. Documented geochemical data dates to NOAA records from 1980. Little published development history exists for this specific spring.
Visit during spring or fall to avoid summer heat and winter cold at this 5,600-foot site. The short walk from North Access road covers open terrain with little shade. Bring sun protection and ample water in the arid climate. Vista Linda Campground in the Jemez National Recreation Area is about 23 km northeast. Do not enter adjacent Jemez Pueblo land without tribal permission.
Is San Ysidro Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Warm-water soaking
- Overnight camping trips
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...