Quick FactsOverview
About the Springs
McCauley Warm Springs, New Mexico is a free, primitive warm spring in the Santa Fe National Forest in the Jemez Mountains of northern New Mexico, approximately 7 miles north of Jemez Springs on Highway 4. The spring is part of a system of thermal features on the edge of the Valles Caldera. Two main rock-lined soaking pools sit in a forested clearing surrounded by ponderosa pines at approximately 7,349 feet elevation. The water temperature in the main pools ranges from 87 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit; the source emerges at approximately 100 degrees from the hillside. The pools are relatively large and shallow, built partly with Civilian Conservation Corps rock dam construction, and can hold up to around 20 people.
Additional smaller and deeper pools are located downhill from the main soaking area. Small minnows are present in the pools and will nibble skin; this is harmless and water shoes can prevent it. The site is one of the most visited primitive warm springs in New Mexico, popular with hikers from Albuquerque and Santa Fe.
For visitors looking for hot springs near Jemez Springs New Mexico, this is one of the most practical free options in the Jemez Mountains, combining a moderate forest hike with a genuinely large natural soaking area.
Location & Access
Getting There
The springs are reached from two primary trailheads on Highway 4. The most popular route starts at the Battleship Rock Picnic Area (turn onto Camp Shaver Lane off Highway 4, approximately 7 miles north of Jemez Springs) and follows the East Fork Trail for approximately 3.5 miles round trip with 820 feet of elevation gain. A second access point at the Jemez Falls Picnic Area or Campground offers a 3.3-mile round trip route with similar elevation gain. Both routes are rated moderate by AllTrails and take approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours. GPS coordinates 35.8199883, -106.6274128 match the spring location.
Day use parking may require a fee at the picnic areas; confirm current fees with the Santa Fe National Forest. The Battleship Rock trail has poorly marked sections, particularly at early forks; take the right-hand fork at the first junction and follow the East Fork Trail. Using a downloaded map or GPS is strongly recommended. The Jemez Falls approach is generally better marked.
The springs are day use only; camping at or near the pools is prohibited. For visitors exploring hot springs near Jemez Springs New Mexico, Spence Hot Springs to the north is another free primitive option, making a multi-spring day trip from Albuquerque or Santa Fe practical.
Suitability & Accessibility
Who Should Visit
The springs suit families, couples, casual hikers, and first-time primitive spring visitors. The moderate trail, forested setting, relatively large pools, and lower temperature compared to most hot springs make this one of the more approachable wilderness soaking destinations in New Mexico. The water is less intensely hot than commercial springs, making it comfortable for extended soaking in warm weather and particularly suitable for those who find higher-temperature springs too intense.
Swimsuits are required per US Forest Service guidelines, though naturists occasionally visit. Dogs are allowed on the trail on a leash. Small minnows in the pools will nibble skin; water shoes resolve this easily. The pools are popular and often shared; solitude is more likely on weekdays. No facilities of any kind are available at the springs. The trail has some steeper and rocky sections that may challenge very young children, though many families do make the hike.
For those seeking family hot springs near Jemez Springs, this is the most accessible free option in the area for hikers of moderate fitness. The ponderosa pine forest and views of Battleship Rock on the way up add significant scenic value. The site is open year-round, with the best conditions from April through December; winter access is possible but snow and ice on the trail require appropriate footwear and caution.
Safety & Etiquette
McCauley Warm Springs Safety Tips
The springs are generally safe for healthy visitors of all ages prepared for a moderate mountain hike. The water temperature of 87 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit is below body temperature and carries minimal overheating risk for most healthy adults in standard soaking conditions, making it one of the more forgiving warm springs in New Mexico. Test the temperature at the pool edge, as the upper pools nearest the source are slightly warmer than the lower pools. The source emerges at approximately 100 degrees and feeds the upper pool most directly.
The Battleship Rock trail has poorly marked sections. Download an AllTrails or GPS map before departing and follow the East Fork Trail carefully; wrong turns are common for first-time visitors. Steep and rocky sections require careful footing. Mountain weather in the Jemez range changes quickly; bring rain gear and check the forecast before departure, particularly from July to September when afternoon thunderstorms are common.
Small minnows in the pools are a natural feature of the spring system and are harmless. No facilities are available at the springs; pack out everything you bring. Camping at or near the pools is prohibited. Day use parking fees may apply at the trailhead picnic areas. Respect current fire restrictions, which vary seasonally in the Santa Fe National Forest; check with the Jemez Ranger District at (575) 829-3535 before your visit. Do not dunk your head in the water and follow Leave No Trace principles throughout the hike and at the pools.
