Upper Frisco Hot Spring flows at 98 degrees Fahrenheit in the Gila National Forest of Catron County, New Mexico, near Reserve. Its pH of 9.7 ranks among the most alkaline thermal springs in the western United States. USGS measurements record 36.5 degrees Celsius. The spring requires a 1,041-meter walk from Forest Road 35 at 6,480 feet elevation.
The spring emerges along the San Francisco River corridor in the rugged, sparsely populated highlands of western New Mexico. Ponderosa pine and pinon-juniper woodland cover the surrounding ridges, while cottonwoods and willows line the river bottom. Annual precipitation is just 12.4 inches with 17.2 inches of snow, creating a semi-arid landscape punctuated by deep canyons. The Gila country stretches south toward the Mogollon Mountains, forming one of the least densely populated regions in the lower 48 states.
History of (Upper) Frisco Hot Spring
The name references the nearby San Francisco River, called "Rio San Francisco" by early Spanish explorers and later shortened locally to "Frisco." The Mogollon people inhabited this region for centuries before Spanish contact. The spring has remained undeveloped on Forest Service land, with no commercial infrastructure. The broader Gila country gained federal protection in 1924 when the Gila Wilderness became the world's first designated wilderness area.
Visit from April through November; winter access depends on snow conditions along Forest Road 35. The 1 km walk to the spring follows uneven terrain, so wear sturdy boots. Water temperature is comfortable for soaking without mixing. The high alkalinity means the water feels slippery on skin. Apache Creek Campground, 15.9 km away, provides a quiet, undeveloped base camp among ponderosa pines. Carry all water and supplies; services in Reserve are limited.
Is (Upper) Frisco Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Warm-water soaking
- Overnight camping trips
(Upper) Frisco Hot Spring is well suited for warm-water soaking and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 12.4 in
Annual Snow: 17.2 in
January
Air 33°F · Water 98°F · +65° contrast
December
Air 34°F · Water 98°F · +64° contrast
February
Air 38°F · Water 98°F · +60° contrast
January offers 39°F more contrast than June
Recent Temperature
97.7°F
(36.5°C)
Measured May 22, 1958
The water at (Upper) Frisco Hot Spring is alkaline (pH 9.7).
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
This is a nice quiet undeveloped campground amongst ponderosa pines and abundant wildlife.Apache Creek Campground is in the northwest region of the forest. There are plenty of trees to provide shade and this is a very clean campground.
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Apache Creek Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
USGS Quad: DILLON MOUNTAIN 7.5 · NOAA: 2.0 · AMS Map: CLIFTON
What is the water temperature at (Upper) Frisco Hot Spring?
(Upper) Frisco Hot Spring has a water temperature of 98°F (37°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is (Upper) Frisco Hot Spring located?
(Upper) Frisco Hot Spring is located in Catron County, New Mexico at 6,480 feet elevation, near Reserve. Coordinates: 33.8310°N, 108.8000°W.
How do I get to (Upper) Frisco Hot Spring?
(Upper) Frisco Hot Spring has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Forest Road 35 (0.6 mi from the road).
Is (Upper) Frisco Hot Spring free to visit?
(Upper) Frisco Hot Spring has Open access. It is managed by US Forest Service.
Can I camp near (Upper) Frisco Hot Spring?
Yes, Apache Creek Campground is located nearby (9.9 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at (Upper) Frisco Hot Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 9.7 (alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at (Upper) Frisco Hot Spring?
(Upper) Frisco Hot Spring is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is (Upper) Frisco Hot Spring crowded?
(Upper) Frisco Hot Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to (Upper) Frisco Hot Spring?
Essentials for (Upper) Frisco Hot Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.