Discover the best hot springs in New Mexico!
The natural beauty of New Mexico cannot be denied. From the mountain ranges and forested reserves to the vast areas of the desert, this state has something for everyone. Even hot spring lovers!
Whether you reward yourself after a long hike or use them as a way to warm up after a day at the ski resort, a hot spring is the best way to finish off any experience.
Hot springs are prevalent in the town of Truth or Consequences because of a large underground aquifer that sits beneath it. They are also numerous natural hot springs in Jemez Springs, Santa Fe, and Taos which makes these towns very popular with hot spring enthusiasts.
In this guide, we are going to go into detail about five of our favorite New Mexico hot springs and provide you with a complete list of every hot spring in New Mexico.
5 of the Best Hot Springs in New Mexico
New Mexico has so many hot springs on offer that it’s hard to narrow it down to just five to recommend. These are just the cream of the crop that we wanted to highlight for you, but we have also supplied you with a full list of all the wonderful locations in the state.
Here are our top five New Mexico hot springs:
Black Rock Hot Springs
When we think of primitive hot springs in New Mexico, the first one that comes to mind is Black Rock Hot Springs.
This spot in Taos is known as the most highly recommended primitive hot springs in New Mexico, and for good reason! This also means that the spot is very popular, so you may be sharing your hot spring experience.
The pools are small and surrounded by the imposing black rocks that give the pools their name. They sit beside a river, which not only makes for an incredible view but whose height ultimately determines the temperature of the hot spring pools.
Temperatures range between 97 and 101 F, and they will be hotter the lower the river is. We recommend checking the water before you pop in, just in case it is particularly hot that day.
Getting to the hot springs involves an easy hike, but we recommend making sure you have plenty of water and good walking shoes. The trailhead isn’t officially marked, but all you need to do is follow the black rock, and you should find your way.
It is important to note that these springs are clothing optional.
Riverbend Hot Springs
As a resort, Riverbend Hot Springs is a dream location in the town of Truth or Consequences!
For us, the main pull of these hot springs in comparison to other is how perfectly it is placed within the natural surroundings. The pools are located outside along the bank of the Rio Grande River but raised up on a higher level so you can sit in your hot spring pools and watch the stunning river run by you.
The hot springs are made up of 8 stone-faced pools dotted along the riverbank that have temperatures ranging from 95-108 F. Some of these pools are public and can be used by many people at once, but if you are looking for a more secluded experience you might want to book a private pool.
The private pools are small two-person hot spring pools that are perfect for a romantic time with your partner. They are divided by wooden walls, but each has its own open view of the river.
Since the resort is focused on serenity, the pool areas are whisper zones, and there are no children under 12 allowed.
The pools are closed at night as this is when the pools are routinely emptied and cleaned.
There are a few options for entry to the hot springs. You can buy a one-hour property pass that lets you use everything except the private pools, or you can choose to book a private room. However, if you are staying on-site, you get unlimited access to the hot springs.
If you want to stay at Riverbend Springs, there are different hotel room styles and sizes available for a variety of budgets. Alternatively, you can book a spot at the RV site.
McCauley Hot Springs
If you want a really beautiful primitive hot spring experience, we highly recommend McCauley Hot Springs.
Located near Jemez Springs in the Santa Fe National Forest, these rock-lined pools are known for their outstanding beauty. The series of pools that flow down the hill is surrounded by dense forest that makes the spot feel intimate and secret.
Technically, these hot springs are actually warm springs because the temperatures only range between 85 and 99 F. The water is comfortably warm and the perfect way to kick back and relax in the beauty of nature.
The largest pool fits around 20 people, and you might find yourself sharing the water with some small minnows, which have the tendency to nibble on toes occasionally.
The hike to the springs is 3.4 miles round trip, so it is not overly long. Even so, we suggest bringing plenty of water as it can be easy to dehydrate when soaking in the hot water.
There is; unfortunately, no camping allowed near the hot springs. However, while you’re in the area, you might as well give the nearby Spence Hot Springs and San Antonio Hot Springs a visit.
Hot Springs Glamp Camp
Hot Springs Glamp Camp is a wonderfully unique pace that sets itself apart from your regular hot springs resorts. Opened in 2021, this Truth or Consequences hot spring was originally called Sweet Springs before it become the little oasis it is today.
Instead of a glamorous and polished complex, you are greeted by a series of retro, revamped RVs and other unusual accommodations that give the place some unique character. Since the hot springs are only used by guests, first, you need to pick your accommodation.
There are some RV and tent campsites available if you want to bring your own RV, but instead, we suggest booking into one of their accommodations because they are so beautiful and full of character. You can choose between a selection of themed RVs, a yurt, or the new Dome building.
The hot springs themselves are pumped into large rustic tin baths that sit outside under sunshades. The water is constantly flowing to keep it clean and is replaced between uses. There are said to be traces of 37 different minerals in this hot spring, which maintains temperatures from 107 F to 111 F.
There are three fresh air tubs and one indoor jacuzzi that are all open 24 hours, so you can choose to soak at any time of day during your stay.
Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort and Spa
The Ojo Caliente Hot Springs are a luxury resort lover’s dream. If you want a hot spring experience that is all about relaxation and indulgence, then these hot springs are well worth visiting.
The original bathhouse was opened in 1868, but since then, the hot springs have been expanded and renovated to become the ultimate luxury resort that it is today.
The spa is styled in desert chic, with pale rock walls surrounding the outdoor area, giving it a private and secluded atmosphere. The pools themselves are built from stone and hold crystal-clear mineral water.
There are a number of soaking experiences available, including a series of mineral pools that are said to have specific healing properties. The pool that we love is the Mud Pool, where you can rub the clay on your skin, lie out and let it dry before rinsing it off in the mineral water. You skin will feel so soft! The only enclosed pool is called the Soda Pool, and it is a strict quiet zone.
The resort also offers spa treatments and yoga classes. There are also various accommodation options, including suites, vintage trailers, cottages, and hotel rooms.
Full List of New Mexico Hot Springs
New Mexico has more developed hot springs than primitive ones, but they still have stunning options for both. Whether you want something rough and rugged that you need to venture into nature to find or a simple, luxurious resort experience, New Mexico’s hot springs have got you covered.
Here is a comprehensive list of the all the New Mexico hot springs:
| Hot Spring | Location in New Mexico | Developed or Primitive |
| Aquarius Soak and Chill Private Oasis | Truth or Consequences | Developed |
| Artesian Bath House and RV Park | Truth or Consequences | Developed |
| Black Rock Hot Springs | Arroyo Hondo | Primitive |
| Blackstone Hot Springs | Truth or Consequences | Developed |
| Bodhi Manda Hot Springs | Jemez Springs | Developed |
| Canon del Rio Inn and Spa | Jemez Springs | Developed |
| Charles Motel and Hot Springs | Truth or Consequences | Developed |
| Faywood Hot Springs | Faywood | Developed |
| Fire Water Lodge Hot Springs Spa | Truth or Consequences | Developed |
| Gila Hot Springs Campground | Silver City | Developed |
| Gila Hot Springs Ranch and RV Park | Silver City | Developed |
| Hoosier Hot Springs | Truth or Consequences | Developed |
| Hot Springs Glamp Camp | Truth or Consequences | Developed |
| Indian Springs Bath Houses | Truth or Consequences | Developed |
| Jemez Hot Springs (Giggling) | Jemez Springs | Developed |
| Jemez Springs Bath House | Jemez Springs | Developed |
| Jordan Hot Springs | Magdalena | Primitive |
| La Paloma Hot Springs and Spa | Truth or Consequences | Developed |
| Lightfeather Hot Springs (Middle Fork) | Silver City | Primitive |
| Manby Hot Springs (Stagecoach) | Arroyo Hondo | Primitive (Private) |
| McCauley Hot Springs | Jemez Springs | Primitive |
| Montezuma Hot Springs | Las Vegas | Primitive |
| Mothership Yoga Lounge and Hot Springs | Truth or Consequences | Developed |
| Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort and Spa | Ojo Caliente | Developed |
| Ojo Santa Fe Resort | Santa Fe | Developed |
| Pelican Spa | Truth or Consequences | Developed |
| Riverbend Hot Springs | Truth or Consequences | Developed |
| San Antonio Hot Springs | Jemez Springs | Primitive |
| Sierra Grande Lodge and Spa | Truth or Consequences | Developed |
| Spence Hot Springs | Jemez Springs | Primitive |
| The Wilderness Lodge and Hot Springs | Gila | Developed |
Type of Hot Springs in New Mexico
When visiting New Mexico, you have two choices, and that’s whether to try out a primitive or developed hot spring. This choice depends on what type of experience you are looking for from your hot spring experience.
Primitive Hot Springs
If you want to kick back in nature and maybe even take a little hike to your hot spring of choice, then you need to look for a primitive hot spring.
These hot springs are usually free to visit unless they are part of a national park, where you may need to pay for entrance. This makes them a great destination for travelers on a budget and locals who just want to appreciate the beauty of where they live.
These hot springs are usually extraordinarily beautiful because of their natural setting, so you get the chance to relax in the healing waters with the best view you could ask for.
Due to their remote locations, these hot springs are usually less crowded than a resort which lets you enjoy the natural spring in peace. Some places may even have campsites nearby so you can enjoy the hot springs for a few days in a row.
Primitive hot springs rarely have any amenities around them, so you will need to prepare for those conditions and bring appropriate clothing and plenty of water. It is also very important that you clean up after yourself and take any trash out with you when you leave.
One downside to primitive hot springs is that they are not always accessible to some people. The terrain and need for hiking mean that they will be hard to access for small children and anyone with mobility issues.
Developed Hot Springs
On the other hand, if you want an easy luxury experience, then developed hot springs might be more your speed. Luckily, in New Mexico, hot spring resorts and inns are easy to find.
These resorts will range from rustic soaking experiences to the highest of polished luxury; it really depends on what you are looking for in your hot springs getaway. Prices may vary, but all developed hot springs require payment for entry either through staying on the premises or purchasing a day pass.
Due to their popularity, many hot spring resorts will only let guests soak for a certain amount of time, so everyone gets a chance to enjoy the healing waters.
Although you need to pay to access these developed hot springs, they are accessible to just about anyone, and some locations even have wheelchairs available on-site.
While they may be more expensive, hot spring resorts come with the added benefits of on-site accommodation, restaurants, and spa facilities.
For a state known to have more cows than people, New Mexico is a diverse state with so many wonderful hot springs hidden amongst the landscape. If you love hot springs, New Mexico is a state not to be missed.