Spring (Hot)

Maricopa County, Arizona · Near Carefree
34.0760°N, 111.7080°W · 2,075 ft
99°F 2,075 ft Open Roadside US Forest Service Camping nearby (6.8 mi)

At 99°F, this spring ranks among Arizona's warmest thermal waters, emerging 29 degrees above ambient in Tonto National Forest near Carefree.

Location

Just 70 feet from the road, the spring flows in the desert mountains north of Scottsdale at 2,075 feet elevation. Surrounding vegetation adapts to the region's hot, dry conditions with scattered creosote and palo verde.

Road access is immediate, making this an ideal quick stop. Open public access is available through the U.S. Forest Service. Best visited early morning to avoid afternoon heat.

History of Spring (Hot)

The spring's heat derives from deep groundwater circulation through faults reaching hot rock formations beneath the Sonoran Desert. Tonto National Forest's multiple-use management maintains public access while allowing mineral extraction and other activities.

Monthly Climate
50°
Jan
53°
Feb
61°
Mar
69°
Apr
76°
May
89°
Jun
90°
Jul
89°
Aug
83°
Sep
72°
Oct
60°
Nov
50°
Dec
Annual Precip: 13.9 in Annual Snow: 3.2 in
Best Time to Visit
January Air 50°F · Water 99°F · +49° contrast
December Air 50°F · Water 99°F · +49° contrast
February Air 53°F · Water 99°F · +46° contrast
January offers 40°F more contrast than July
Current Conditions
48°F
Clear 8.1 mph 50% Good soaking weather
Thursday 93° Low 57° Sunny
Spring is +6° warmer
Friday 97° Low 60° Sunny
Spring is +2° warmer
Saturday 100° Low 63° Sunny
Sunday 102° Low 65° Sunny
Monday 104° Low 66° Sunny
Where to Stay

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Nearby Camping
Horseshoe (Az) 6.8 mi away

Overview Horseshoe Campground is farther up the road from Mesquite Campground. Offering more developed campground sites with picnic tables, fire pits and access to the Verde River at campsites 11 and 12. Gorgeous vistas of surrounding mountains and the Verde River are offered along the path for families to enjoy. Most campsites are less shaded than the favored 11 and 12 campsites, so please feel free to bring canopies and coolers to provide shade and stay hydrated during the day, but this cam...

Reservable Yes
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Temperature
99°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 99°F (37°C)
Avg Air Temp 70°F
Above Ambient +29°F
Warm air, warm water May
Access
Open
Road Access Roadside
Distance to Road 68 ft
Land
Ownership Federal
Agency US Forest Service
Designation National Forest
Unit Tonto National Forest
Manager US Forest Service
Protection 3 - Protected, subject to extractive use
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Spring (Hot)?
Spring (Hot) has a water temperature of 99°F (37°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Spring (Hot) located?
Spring (Hot) is located in Maricopa County, Arizona at 2,075 feet elevation, near Carefree. Coordinates: 34.0760°N, 111.7080°W.
How do I get to Spring (Hot)?
Spring (Hot) has Roadside road access (68 ft from the road).
Is Spring (Hot) free to visit?
Spring (Hot) has Open access. It is managed by US Forest Service.
Can I camp near Spring (Hot)?
Yes, Horseshoe (Az) is located nearby (6.8 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Spring (Hot)?
Spring (Hot) is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Spring (Hot) crowded?
Spring (Hot) is accessible from a paved road, making it easy to reach. Weekends and holidays may be busier — consider visiting on a weekday for a quieter experience.
What should I bring to Spring (Hot)?
Essentials for Spring (Hot): swimsuit, towel, water bottle, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.
Sources: USGS NWIS