New Mexico boasts white sand, big blue skies, snow-capped mountains, desert vistas, an epic Wild West history, a vibrant modern art scene, and numerous forests, lakes, and rivers to explore. You’ll find places to fish, ski, kayak, go caving, hiking, rock climbing, camping and backpacking…and then there are the hot springs!
There admittedly aren’t as many hot springs destinations here as there are in New Mexico’s neighboring states, but in any case, the Traxplorio team has come together to offer you a list of our favorite New Mexico soaks, starting with the commercial resorts, then heading off into the wilds to offer some options for those nature-loving hot springers among you. And we have no doubt that as you scroll, you’ll be compiling your own wish list for your next trip through New Mexico. Read on for some happy soaking…
1. Jemez Hot Springs
Jemez Hot Springs, a vibrant yet totally peaceful desert oasis of shallow, turquoise, easy-to-access therapeutic hot pools that boast 17+ beneficial minerals. Soak up the positivity in this beautiful canyon resort, surrounded by lush greenery, bright flowers and a babbling creek providing the song of nature nearby.
What To Expect
Jemez Springs (previously named Giggling Hot Springs) offers four 98-105°F mineral water pools on a well-maintained and tranquil site run by friendly staff. There is pool-side covered seating, areas for sunbathing, and natural rocks to sit on as you sip a cool juice or smoothie.
Don’t Miss…
- Exploring the Valles Caldera Preserve.
- A trip to Los Alamos for museums, art centers, geological sites, and the historical Bandelier National Monument.
Good To Know
Overnight guests get two hours of complimentary soaking (10am – 5pm).
Rates: 1-hour soak: $25/person, 2-hour soak: $50/person (walk-ins only, they do not take reservations for the pools).
You can rent towels and bathing suits if you’ve come unprepared.
There is no on-site restaurant, but there are several restaurants in the town nearby.
Stay overnight (book in advance here) in a cabin from $195.
Clothing required.
Address: 40 Abousleman Loop, Jemez Springs, NM
Website: jemezhotsprings.com
2. Riverbend Hot Springs
Riverbend Hot Springs offers an incredible opportunity to soak and relax on the banks of the Rio Grande in a well-kept resort among unbeatable New Mexico riverside scenery.
In their words:
“The natural, mineral-rich water of Riverbend Hot Springs has been relaxing and rejuvenating both warriors and peace-seekers for centuries. The world-class, odor-free mineral water is pumped from deep within the Earth directly to the pools.”
What To Expect
Riverbend Hot Springs offers both public and private pools of 95-108°F, decks which follow and extend into the river, and loungers and hammocks to laze on. In the winter, cozy fire pits are lit for night-time warmth and relaxation.
The public hot springs pools are available by reservation by the hour, while the “Whisper Zone” private pools can be enjoyed in 50-minute sessions, also by reservation. Full, unlimited access to the public pools can be enjoyed by overnighters.
Don’t Miss…
- The river pier for amazing vistas and a cozy place to read or bird watch.
- Boating and kayaking at the 40,000 acre Elephant Butte Lake.
- Spaceport America Experience.
Good To Know
Rates: $25-35/hour for a public pool soak, $35-50/hour for a private pool soak.
Reserve a room from $150/night, or rent an RV space from $65/night.
Clothing is optional in the private pools, but a must in the communal soaking areas.
Address: 100 Austin St, Truth or Consequences, NM
Website: riverbendhotsprings.com
3. Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa
Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa offers nine communal mineral soaking pools and a mud pool in a beautiful and unique Pueblo-style resort.
What To Expect
The beautifully designed and maintained tile/cement public pools at Ojo Caliente are 100% natural and vary between 98-105°F. The top minerals here are iron, lithia and soda- great for uplifting your spirits and soothing away the aches of a day exploring.
The full soaking area is designated a “Whisper Zone,” which means you can expect some real peace and quiet, and a comfortable escape from the daily grind.
Don’t Miss…
- A chance to prolong your healing and stay a night or two in the Ojo Caliente Historic Hotel, charming North Cottages, or in one of their Vintage Trailers.
- Breakfast, lunch or dinner at the on-site restaurant (reservations recommended).
- Yoga classes in the Yoga Yurt.
- Hiking, Biking & Birding in New Mexico’s high desert.
Good To Know
Open: 10am–10pm daily. Avoid weekends and holidays if you don’t like crowds.
Rates: $45 Monday–Thursday, $65 Friday–Sunday and on holidays.
Lockers and towels are provided.
Private pools are clothing optional but bathing suits are required in the communal areas.
Address: 50 Los Banos Dr., Ojo Caliente, NM
Website: ojosparesorts.com/ojo-caliente
4. Fire Water Lodge
The owners of Fire Water Lodge claim this was a go-to hot springs for such great warriors as Geronimo, and whether you believe that or not, we can guarantee that you’ll enjoy the healing experience you’ll get at this cute spa-motel.
What To Expect
Each room at Fire Water Lodge comes with its own 2-4 person hot mineral tub, either tiled, metal or plastic, supplied with geothermal spring water which flows in at around 104 – 108°F. The decor of the rooms is a warm reflection of the Chihuahuan Desert, complemented by hand-crafted furnishings and original works of local art. Why not treat yourself to a massage or reflexology treatment while you’re here? Go on, you deserve it! For photos and descriptions of the rooms, see here.
Don’t Miss…
- A day-trip to Silver City, Emory Pass, or the ghost towns of Hillsboro and Kingston.
- The Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument.
- Exploring the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge.
Good To Know
There is a fully-equipped communal kitchen if you don’t want to head into town for dinner.
Rates: From $115/night
Clothing is optional in your private soaking rooms.
Address: 311 N Broadway St, Truth or Consequences, NM
Website: firewaterlodge.com
5. Ten Thousand Waves Spa
Koi ponds in a serene Zen garden, the best of real Japanese food, and the kind of private hot mineral baths that you’d be hard pressed to find outside of Japan itself. The Ten Thousand Waves Spa is a treat you deserve.
What To Expect
The hot mineral soaking experience at Ten Thousand Waves Spa is modeled on the famed hot spring onsen of Japan, with natural wood and stone accents and an emphasis on clean and calm.
The large, outdoor communal pool has a waterfall, decking, showers and saunas. Each of the eight private hot spring baths is self-contained and comes with a sauna, private changing room and shower. Baths are drained and cleaned between guests. See the full inspiring list of bathing opportunities here (click each hot spring name listed on the left for details and photos).
The hot springs water is kept at 104-106°F, while the cold plunges are around 55°F, and the saunas average 180°F.
Don’t Miss…
- The Ichiban room – with an amazing Japanese toilet that “does almost everything for you!”
- Exploring Santa Fe.
Good To Know
Rates: $78/person for 90 minutes in a private tub (by reservation).
There is a Japanese-themed gift store on-site.
The restaurant offers upscale izakaya dishes and an extensive selection of premium Japanese sake.
All private areas are clothing optional. Bathing suits are required in communal areas.
Address: 21 Ten Thousand Waves Way, Santa Fe
Website: tenthousandwaves.com
6. La Paloma Hot Springs
La Paloma Hot Springs is a very popular destination in Truth or Consequences, with hot-springers particularly enjoying the private pools in cabins that surround the quiet central courtyard.
What To Expect
La Paloma offers indoor and outdoor hot mineral, gravel-bottomed 98 – 116°F free-flowing pools, and, as a bonus, you can order a deep-tissue or reflexology massage to expand your rejuvenating experience. Overnight guests have 24-hour access to the private pools. This is a great destination to head to with friends – book a suite or two, cook up a dinner in your own kitchenette, and soak and chill out together in the courtyard.
Don’t Miss…
- The nearby ghost towns of Cuchillo and Chloride.
- Boating and kayaking at the 40,000 acre Elephant Butte Lake.
- Hiking and climbing at Gila National Forest.
Good To Know
Open: 10am – 10pm, all week.
Rates: $7/person/30 minutes, $12/person/hour.
You can rent towels and buy water, coconut water and snacks on site.
Reserve The LongHouse outdoor pool as a private pool for $20/person/hour.
Clothing is optional in enclosed private pools, required for soaking in the outdoor pools.
Address: 311 Marr St., Truth or Consequences, NM
Website: lapalomahotspringsandspa.com
7. Hot Springs Glamp Camp
Hot Springs Glamp Camp is particularly popular with van lifers and digital nomads, who are drawn there by the desert camping opportunities and strong Wi-Fi – they simply love the chance to be able to soak while they work! Guests here will also enjoy wiling away the evenings chatting with like-minded individuals around the fire.
What To Expect
Hot Springs Glamp Camp, a private RV park and glamping resort with a bright, fresh design and positive vibe, offers three 107-111°F, fenced-off, outdoor tubs, and one indoor jetted jacuzzi, to which all overnight guests have 24/7 unlimited access, as they do to the soft seating and fire stoves throughout the site. The pools are cleaned often and are packed full of beneficial minerals. In fact, the owners claim the hot spring waters here contain trace elements of 38 different minerals, including magnesium, lithium, and silica for smooth skin and a good mood.
Don’t Miss…
- Rafting on the Rio Grande.
- A visit to White Sands National Park.
- Boating and kayaking at the 40,000 acre Elephant Butte Lake.
- Spaceport America Experience.
Good To Know
Stay in a yurt, the “Dome,” or a vintage RV.
Rates: $50/night – dry camping, $75/night – full hookup.
The water contains chloride. The tubs are cleaned and sanitized by staff daily and in between each use.
Private tubs are clothing optional, but you’ll need bathing suits in the communal areas.
Address: W675 S Foch St., Truth or Consequences, NM
Website: hotspringsglampcamp.com
8. Gila Hot Springs RV Ranch
The Gila Hot Springs RV Ranch offers guided tours into the nearby nature as well as some great hot springs pools, a Jacuzzi and mineral showers to come back to and soak in after a day’s adventuring in the wilderness.
What To Expect
The Gila Hot Springs RV Ranch has a number of rustic, shallow, rock-edged pools in the shade of trees on a nicely maintained site. These are fed by a 168°F hot springs source which cools as it flows – also supplying free primitive pools nearer to the separate campsite on the banks of the river.
The self-catering, fully furnished apartments at Gila Hot Springs RV Ranch are deliberately offered TV and phone-free, encouraging you to take the break you need from the daily grind. Check out the 1940s cabin and the tree-lined RV Park. As an added bonus, RVs are supplied with geothermal water via faucets on-site.
Don’t Miss…
- 558,014 acres of unspoiled Gila Wilderness.
- Guided pack trips.
- Specialty Pack Trips.
- Horseback Riding.
Good To Know
Rates: Lodges from $100/night, RVs from $35/night (full hookup), hot springs: $5.50/person.
Clothing required.
Address: 3778 Highway 15, Mimbres, NM
Website: gilahotsprings.com
9. Blackstone Hot Springs
Blackstone Hot Springs offers a totally unique charm with film-themed rooms (see the video below!), and clean, luxury baths that are open to overnight guests and walk-ins alike.
What To Expect
Each room at Blackstone Hot Springs features private, in-room, 110-112°F hot springs, while in the yard there are three outdoor luxury baths which overnight and walk-in guests can reserve for 45-minute sessions.
They say:
“Each of our rooms contains a unique collection of original artworks, studio photos, and retro furnishings, and includes a private in-room hot spring feature.”
The 4-8-person outdoor, fenced-in private pools are 98-115°F, crystal-clear, odor-free, and offer a sense of calm and style in their own mini yards with showers and seating, while the property’s wet room gives you a geothermal sauna experience – and you can enjoy a waterfall massage as you soak!
Don’t Miss…
- A day-trip to Silver City, Emory Pass, and the nearby ghost towns of Hillsboro and Kingston.
- Exploring the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument.
- The Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge.
Good To Know
No cell phone use allowed – this is a sanctuary of quiet and relaxation.
Rates: Walk-ins $45 for 1-2 people/45-minute soak, Overnight guests $25 for 1-2 people/45-minutes soak.
Clothing optional in private areas, required in communal areas.
Address: 410 Austin, Truth or Consequences, NM
Website: blackstonehotsprings.com
10. Sierra Grande Lodge
Sierra Grande Lodge in Truth or Consequences is a Ted Turner Reserve, promising a luxury opportunity not only to rejuvenate in hot mineral waters, but to explore the surrounding area on a carefully chosen guided tour.
What To Expect
Sierra Grande Lodge is a spa retreat that offers holistic wellness services and private indoor and outdoor 104°F geothermal hot springs for its overnight guests (reservation only), as well as an outdoor Jacuzzi in a beautiful desert-themed garden.
Each quaint and comfortable room at the lodge is tastefully decorated with warm, south-western accents to aid in your positive rejuvenation, while each of the two “casitas” comes with its own large, private hot tub.
Don’t Miss…
- The Spa.
- The Sierra Grand Lodge Tour Menu.
- A Ted Turner Reserve Experience.
- The Via Ferrata Climbing Park.
- An Armendaris Bat Flight Expedition.
Good To Know
Lodge guests get a 30-minute hot spring soak per day included in the price of their stay.
Free continental breakfast.
Rates: From $240/night.
Clothing-optional in private bathing areas.
Address: 501 McAdoo Street, Truth or Consequences, NM
Website: tedturnerreserves.com/sierra-grande
11. Faywood Hot Springs
Faywood Hot Springs welcomes both the clothed and unclothed at its private, fenced-in, outdoor garden pools – there’s something for everyone wanting to soak up some minerals and escape the hustle and bustle of urban life.
What To Expect
The rustic Faywood Hot Springs resort offers four private 102 – 107°F hot mineral water pools/tubs for 4-10 people, which you can rent by the hour. There is also a larger group pool for around 25 people, with a bathroom, showers, changing room, tables and chairs, and, for overnight guests, three communal pools (clothing-optional and clothing required) for unlimited use.
Don’t Miss…
- An on-site geothermal mineral shower.
- Rockhound State Park.
- City of Rocks State Park.
- Gila Cliff Dwellings at Gila National Forest.
Good To Know
Peacocks are loose on the property.
All pools are routinely drained and cleaned.
Rates: Private pools – Adult $20/hour, Child (<12) $10/hour.
Cabins are from $45/person/night and there are monthly and weekly rates on RV sites.
The Visitor’s Center offers a hot beverages bar, a convenience store and a gift shop.
Some areas are clothing-optional, others are not.
Address: 165 Highway 61, Faywood, NM
Website: faywoodhotsprings.com
12. Jordan Hot Springs
Jordan Hot Springs is one of the gems of Gila National Forest, with incredible views as you soak – but you’ll need to hike 7 miles and cross 15 rivers to get there!
What To Expect
Jordan Hot Springs is a beautiful, man-made, rock-walled, gravel-bottomed thermal pool with an average temperature of 94 -100°F. A tree trunk divides the pool into two.
Comfortably seating around 6 people, this serene hot springs destination is a just reward for the work needed to get there, and offers an abundance of minerals that will do wonders for you!
Don’t Miss…
- The Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument.
- Exploring the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge.
Good To Know
Be ready for the river crossings. The deepest point is around 3 feet.
Watch out for rattlesnakes on your way.
This pool is known to contain amoeba which can cause meningitis. Keep your soak “shin to chin” and do not put your head into the water. See more about the risks in this informative article.
Clothing optional.
Gila National Forest has up to 40 campground camping options, 7 dispersed camping areas, 3 group camping areas that include amenities such as large grills and numerous tables, and around 21 RV parks.
13. Black Rock Hot Springs
Black Rock Hot Springs is a semi-rustic, very popular hot springs on the banks of the Rio Grande.
What To Expect
Black Rock Hot Springs is made up of two wide, shallow, primitive mud/rock bottomed and rock-walled pools with an average temperature of 97°F – 101°F. Their temperature and depth depend on the flow of the Rio Grande and the weather, with the pools at times dry and too shallow to soak in!
The Black Rock pools can be reached via a short, 0.3-mile trail decorated with black rocks, and boasting stunning mountainous views. For more details on that trail, click here.
Don’t Miss…
- A visit to Taos Pueblo.
- Crossing the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge.
- The Millicent Rogers Museum.
Good To Know
Busy on weekends and holidays.
Vault toilets available at the trailhead.
You should expect some algae in the water, this is natural and not dangerous.
Clothing optional.
No camping allowed.
14. McCauley Hot Springs
In the depths of the Santa Fe National Forest, McCauley Hot Springs (known better as a “warm” springs) is one of the most frequented hot springs in the state, promising characteristic New Mexico views all round.
What To Expect
McCauley Hot Springs boasts two primitive pools of 95°F, surrounded by pines, and big enough to fit around a dozen soakers at a time. The view from the pond over the canyon is amazing.
In order to get to McCauley Hot Springs you’ll need to hike some two moderately strenuous miles each way. Click here for more details on that trail.
Don’t Miss…
- Battleship Rock
- The Jemez Mountains
- Birdwatching
- Spence Hot Springs
Good To Know
Head there early or on weekdays if you prefer a quiet soak.
Expect algae on the edges of the pool.
Expect snakes.
Clothing required, though you will likely still see nude soakers.
No overnight camping.
15. Spence Hot Springs
Like McCauley, Spence Hot Springs is more a warm water spring than hot, but in any case it is much appreciated by visitors for its beautiful views of the pine-covered Santa Fe National Forest.
What to Expect
Spence Hot Springs offers two knee-deep, 81 – 95°F rock-walled hot spring pools perched atop a cliff, overlooking the wonders of the Santa Fe Forest. Check out the two-person “sauna” grotto for a moment of solitude. And if you’re looking for a bit of solitary time, aim to get there in the early morning for the added bonus of one of the best views of a New Mexico sunrise.
These hot springs require an easy 0.6 mile (around 20 minute) hike from the parking area to get to. For details and a map of that hike, click here.
Don’t Miss…
- Exploring the Valles Caldera Preserve.
- Discovering the Santa Fe National Forest.
Good To Know
This pool is known to contain amoeba which can cause meningitis. Keep your soak “shin to chin” and do not put your head into the water. See more about the risks in this informative article.
Expect some harmless algae growing in/on the water.
Head there early or on weekdays if you prefer a quiet soak.
Watch out for poison ivy on the trail.
Clothing required, though you may come across nude bathers.
No camping allowed.
16. SAN ANTONIO HOT SPRINGS
Near to Spence, San Antonio Hot Springs is a tough-to-reach but hotter hot spring than the above two offerings we suggested, with a mineral soak and stunning views making it so worth the trip!
What To Expect
San Antonio Hot Springs is a collection of four shallow, 105°F, rock-walled pools on a steep mountainside, overlooking a beautiful valley, coniferous trees and mountainous landscapes.
The top pool is the largest and warmest, with the three pipes pumping out a constant flow of hot mineral water.To get there, you’ll need to drive 5 miles on a dirt road (high clearance only) to the trailhead, after which it’s a one-mile uphill walk to the hot springs. Check out the trail here.
Don’t Miss…
- Exploring the Valles Caldera Preserve.
- Discovering the Santa Fe National Forest.
Good To Know
In winter, the dirt road from FS-376 to the trailhead is closed, making the hike a full 10-mile round trip.
Head there early or on weekdays if you prefer a quiet soak.
Clothing required, though you may come across nude bathers.
No camping allowed.
17. MONTEZUMA HOT SPRINGS
Montezuma Hot Springs was once the main attraction of the Montezuma Hotel. The hotel closed a while back, and today, the lithium-sulfur springs are free and open to the public, despite being located on private property.
What To Expect
Montezuma Hot Springs offers several open-air concrete pools alongside the Gallinas River. The smaller soaking pools range from very hot to warm, in addition to larger rock pools known as the “lobster pot” (a very hot 120°F) and “Africa” (102.7°F), named for its shape. Use your elbow to test the water temperature before climbing in.
Though it’s right next to the highway, and so easy to get to, access to Montezuma Hot Springs can be muddy or slippery depending on the weather, and on the amount of algae growing near the pools. The pools are maintained by the nearby college, but the paths can become overgrown.
Don’t Miss…
- The art and museums of Las Vegas, NM.
- Exploring the Sabinoso Wilderness.
- Birdwatching and windsurfing at the Storrie Lake State Park.
Good To Know
Expect some harmless algae in or on the water.
Head there early or on weekdays if you prefer a quiet soak.
Clothing required.
No camping allowed.
Disclaimer
While we at Traxplorio do our very best to give you the latest information about these hot springs sites, life happens, weather happens, and property owners happen. We always recommend you go to the official hot springs’ web page and/or the relevant state authority page to check conditions, times, and prices (where relevant) before you head out. Thanks for understanding, and enjoy your soak!
