Clifton Hot Springs
Clifton Hot Springs flows at 102 degrees Fahrenheit in Greenlee County as one of Arizona's most heavily mineralized thermal features, with total dissolved solids reaching an extraordinary 13,900 mg/L—dominated by 7,000 mg/L chloride concentration creating intensely salty water.
The spring emerges at 3,500 feet elevation near the historic mining town of Clifton, where arid high-desert landscape characterizes the immediate terrain. Waters register as exceptionally saline and mineral-rich, flowing in an environment receiving just 10.6 inches of annual precipitation with occasional winter snow at this elevation.
Roadside access via established routes near Clifton provides immediate vehicle access to this heavily mineralized spring. The intense salinity makes this spring unsuitable for conventional bathing; visitors should observe from a safe distance and respect water chemistry data indicating 71-degree Celsius temperatures.
Clifton's geological setting in southeastern Arizona reflects deep crustal heat sources combined with mineral-rich subsurface geology typical of the region's extensive mineral deposits and mining history. The spring's extreme salinity indicates prolonged water-rock interaction in deep thermal reservoirs.
The water at Clifton Hot Springs contains 13900 mg/L total dissolved solids. It is notably rich in calcium (may support bone density and joint health), sodium (supports circulation and skin hydration), and chloride (natural antiseptic with skin health benefits).
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Located in the Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area in Arizona, Owl Creek Campground has seven campsites, picnic tables, grills, ramadas, trash receptacles, and restroom facilities available to make your stay more enjoyable. There is no potable water available at the campground. Three of the campsites are pull-through sites, and four are pull-in sites, making the campground suitable for trailers and RVS. The campground is a stop on the Black Hills Back Country Byway, and it is also j...
Clifton Hot Springs is road-accessible, so you can bring more gear. Bring sun protection for exposed soaking.
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