Overview
The “earned soak” on the East Fork Trail
McCauley Warm Springs (often called McCauley Hot Springs) is a hike-in set of warm soaking pools along the East Fork corridor in the Jemez. The vibe is very different from roadside springs: you walk through ponderosa forest and canyon scenery, then arrive at a small clearing with primitive pools built up by rock and log work over time. It’s one of the better-known wild soaks in New Mexico because the trail is established and the destination is obvious once you reach it.
What the Forest Service is clear about
The Forest Service notes that McCauley is accessed via the East Fork Trail (#137), and that there are no restrooms or potable water at the springs. They also publish backcountry camping setback guidance in the area. Treat those details as your non-negotiables for planning.
What changes week to week
Pool shape and “best spot” can shift with high water, storm debris, and visitor maintenance. Go in expecting nature to be in charge. Sometimes the main pool is perfect. Sometimes you pick a smaller pool and call it a win.
Location & Access
Where it is
McCauley Warm Springs is in the Santa Fe National Forest near Jemez Springs, reached on the East Fork Trail (#137). Most visitors start from the Battleship Rock Trailhead, which the Forest Service describes as trailhead parking for East Fork Trail access.
Getting to the trailhead
Battleship Rock Trailhead is accessed off NM-4 north of the village of Jemez Springs. The Forest Service lists paved trailhead parking and a vault toilet at the trailhead. It also posts a day-use fee at that site, so check current fee guidance before you arrive.
Hiking distance and pacing
The Forest Service states it is 2 miles from Battleship Rock Trailhead to McCauley Warm Spring. Plan for a moderate half-day once you include soaking time, breaks, and a slower pace if the trail is snowy, muddy, or crowded.
What to bring
There is no potable water at the springs, and the Forest Service notes no restrooms at the site. Bring all drinking water, a small trash bag, and layers. Sandals with traction help on slick rock edges. A headlamp is smart if you’re pushing later in the day.
Suitability & Accessibility
McCauley is best for hikers who like a destination with a payoff and can handle a moderate out-and-back. If you want a quick roadside dip, this is not it. If you like walking through forest before you soak, it’s a good match.
Families
I mark this as not family friendly for most itineraries because the distance and pool edges demand constant supervision and steady footing. Outdoorsy families with older kids sometimes do fine here, but it’s not a casual stop.
Mobility realities
This is a trail-and-rock-pool destination. Expect uneven tread, narrow spots, and getting in and out of primitive pools. If you need step-free access, look at developed hot springs instead.
What it isn’t
It isn’t a maintained pool complex. Expect natural variability, crowds on weekends, and the usual “wild spring” trade-offs: you earn it, and you share it.
Safety & Etiquette
Respect setbacks and the corridor
The Forest Service publishes camping setback guidance in the area. Even if you’re day-tripping, the spirit is the same: give the water and banks space, don’t trample vegetation, and don’t turn the clearing into a campsite staging area.
Watch footing
Rock and log edges get slick, especially when people splash water across the rim. Step slowly, keep your center of gravity low, and treat every entry like it might be slippery.
Heat management
Warm springs still dehydrate you. Do short soaks, drink water, and cool down between rounds. If you’re hiking in summer, the combination of sun and soaking can hit harder than expected.
Etiquette
Keep it quiet, share the pool edge, and don’t monopolize the best spot for an hour while others wait. Clothing norms vary at wild springs. If you choose to soak nude, be aware of families and mixed groups and keep behavior neutral.
Leave no trace, practically
Pack out trash, don’t leave food scraps, and don’t “improve” pools with random materials. The best contributions are a clean site and a calm presence.
FAQs
How do you get to McCauley Warm Springs?
The Forest Service states McCauley is accessed via the East Fork Trail (#137), commonly from the Battleship Rock Trailhead off NM-4 near Jemez Springs.
How far is the hike?
The Forest Service states it is 2 miles from Battleship Rock Trailhead to McCauley Warm Spring (one way). Plan for a moderate half-day with soaking time.
Are there restrooms or drinking water at the springs?
No. The Forest Service states there are no restrooms and no potable water at the springs. Bring all water you plan to drink.
Is there a fee to park?
The Forest Service posts a day-use fee at Battleship Rock Trailhead. Check current details before you arrive, since fees can change.
Is it suitable for beginners?
If you’re comfortable with a moderate hike and primitive pools, yes. If you need a flat, drive-up soak, choose a developed hot springs facility instead.