Verde Hot Springs

Yavapai County, Arizona · Near Camp Verde
34.3570°N, 111.7100°W · 2,660 ft
104°F 2,660 ft Open Roadside US Forest Service Camping nearby (11.4 mi)

Verde Hot Springs emerges at 104°F along the Verde River near Camp Verde, one of Arizona's hottest thermal features and 37 degrees above ambient temperature.

Location

This roadside spring sits at just 2,660 feet elevation on the Verde River's western bank in a hot desert canyon environment. Ruins of a historical resort and bathhouse stand as reminders of past recreational use, with dramatic river scenery framing the thermal emergence.

Access is roadside along Childs Road with open public access managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The Verde River provides scenic recreation; Clear Creek Campground 18 kilometers away offers developed camping with creek access and birdwatching opportunities.

History of Verde Hot Springs

USGS analysis reveals sodium-rich water chemistry (1,000 mg/L sodium, 650 mg/L sulfate, 540 mg/L chloride) with slightly acidic pH 6.5. Historical use as a resort dating to territorial Arizona reflects the spring's long recognition as a significant thermal feature managed within Tonto National Forest.

Monthly Climate
48°
Jan
51°
Feb
58°
Mar
66°
Apr
73°
May
86°
Jun
87°
Jul
86°
Aug
80°
Sep
69°
Oct
57°
Nov
48°
Dec
Annual Precip: 15.0 in Annual Snow: 7.4 in
Best Time to Visit
January Air 48°F · Water 104°F · +56° contrast
December Air 48°F · Water 104°F · +56° contrast
February Air 51°F · Water 104°F · +53° contrast
January offers 39°F more contrast than July
Current Conditions
41°F
W 7.2 mph 69% Good soaking weather
Thursday 89° Low 52° Sunny
Spring is +15° warmer
Friday 95° Low 55° Sunny
Spring is +9° warmer
Saturday 98° Low 59° Sunny
Spring is +6° warmer
Sunday 101° Low 61° Sunny
Spring is +3° warmer
Monday 101° Low 63° Sunny
Spring is +3° warmer
Water Chemistry Sampled 1979-06-12

The water at Verde Hot Springs is slightly acidic (pH 6.5). It is notably rich in calcium (may support bone density and joint health), magnesium (known for muscle relaxation and stress relief), and sodium (supports circulation and skin hydration).

pH 6.5 Slightly Acidic
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
Calcium 110 mg/L
May support bone density and joint health
Magnesium 46 mg/L
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Sodium 1,000 mg/L
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Sulfate 650 mg/L
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Chloride 540 mg/L
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
Iron 700 µg/L
Iron-rich springs may support circulation
Where to Stay

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Nearby Camping
Clear Creek Campground (Az) 11.4 mi away

Overview This cozy group campground is tucked in the Lower Sonoran Desert along the banks of the fresh, chilly Clear Creek. Campers can wade in the creek, fish, or curl up with a book under the umbrella of cottonwood trees. Another popular pastime here is birdwatching, where you might just spot a hawk or bald eagle in flight. Clear Creek Campground is seven miles southeast of the small ranching town of Camp Verde. It's part of the Coconino National Forest, one of the most diverse forests in...

Reservable Yes
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Temperature
104°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 104°F (40°C)
Avg Air Temp 67°F
Above Ambient +37°F
Good soaking conditions May
Access
Open
Road Access Roadside
Nearest Road Childs
Distance to Road 311 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 Verde Hot Springs?
Verde Hot Springs has a water temperature of 104°F (40°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Verde Hot Springs located?
Verde Hot Springs is located in Yavapai County, Arizona at 2,660 feet elevation, near Camp Verde. Coordinates: 34.3570°N, 111.7100°W.
How do I get to Verde Hot Springs?
Verde Hot Springs has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being Childs (311 ft from the road).
Is Verde Hot Springs free to visit?
Verde Hot Springs has Open access. It is managed by US Forest Service.
Can I camp near Verde Hot Springs?
Yes, Clear Creek Campground (Az) is located nearby (11.4 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Verde Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride, Iron. The pH is 6.5 (slightly acidic).
Is it safe to soak at Verde Hot Springs?
Verde Hot Springs is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Verde Hot Springs crowded?
Verde Hot Springs 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 Verde Hot Springs?
Essentials for Verde Hot Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.
Sources: USGS NWIS, Wikipedia