San Antonio Hot Spring
San Antonio Hot Spring emerges at 129°F in the Santa Fe National Forest at 8,369 feet, producing water 83.7°F above the local annual average — one of the largest thermal differentials in New Mexico. The water is remarkably pure: low in dissolved minerals with just 23 mg/L sodium and 2.3 mg/L chloride at pH 7.7.
The spring sits high in the Jemez Mountains within the Santa Fe National Forest, surrounded by dense mixed-conifer forest of spruce, fir, and aspen. At 8,369 feet, the area receives 21 inches of rain and 56 inches of snow annually. The San Antonio Creek drainage runs nearby through a steep volcanic canyon, and the Valles Caldera — a 13-mile-wide volcanic depression — lies just to the east. Rhyolite cliffs and tuff formations from the Jemez volcanic field shape the surrounding terrain.
San Antonio Hot Spring is part of the Jemez volcanic hydrothermal system fed by the Valles Caldera magma chamber. The spring has drawn bathers for generations, and the Forest Service manages it as an open-access recreation site within the national forest. Multiple soaking pools at the source have been informally constructed by visitors over the years. San Antonio Campground, built along the San Antonio River at 7,600 feet, was completely rebuilt and reopened in 2010.
A 358-meter trail leads from the road to the spring. The forest road may be closed November through May due to snow at 8,369 feet. Summer and early fall provide the most reliable access. Water temperature at the source reaches 129°F — test carefully before entering, as pools vary in temperature. San Antonio Campground, 5.7 km away, is reservable and open May through October. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for forest roads.
Is San Antonio Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Overnight camping trips
The water at San Antonio Hot Spring is slightly alkaline (pH 7.7).
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Overview San Antonio Campground is adjacent to the San Antonio River, tucked into a forest of ponderosa pine at 7,600 feet above sea level. This popular campground is open from May through October in the Santa Fe National Forest. Visitors should be prepared for hot summer days and cool nights. San Antonio Campground was completely rebuilt and reopened in August 2010. It is designated as a reduced impact and recycle campground.Recreation A paved walking trail along the river provides access f...