San Ysidro Hot Springs

Sandoval County, New Mexico · Near Jemez Pueblo
35.5400°N, 106.8540°W · 5,612 ft
85°F 5,612 ft Short Walk Camping nearby (14.2 mi)

San Ysidro Hot Springs delivers 85°F thermal water with remarkably high sodium (3,000 mg/L) and chloride (2,400 mg/L) concentrations at 5,612 feet elevation in Sandoval County. Located a short walk from North Access road, the spring runs about 30°F above average annual air temperature. USGS measurements confirm a steady 25°C output.

Location

The spring sits in the semi-arid Jemez River valley at the western edge of the Jemez Mountains, surrounded by piñon-juniper woodland and red sandstone bluffs. Annual rainfall averages just 9.4 inches with 14.6 inches of snow. The Rio Jemez flows nearby, cutting through volcanic and sedimentary terrain. Jemez Pueblo lies to the east, and the broader landscape transitions from high desert grassland into forested mountain slopes as elevation climbs toward the caldera.

Visit during spring or fall to avoid summer heat and winter cold at this 5,600-foot site. The short walk from North Access road covers open terrain with little shade. Bring sun protection and ample water in the arid climate. Vista Linda Campground in the Jemez National Recreation Area is about 23 km northeast. Do not enter adjacent Jemez Pueblo land without tribal permission.

History of San Ysidro Hot Springs

The spring takes its name from the nearby village of San Ysidro, a historic crossroads community at the mouth of Jemez Canyon. The Jemez Pueblo people have occupied this region for centuries, and the thermal waters along this corridor have long been known to local populations. Documented geochemical data dates to NOAA records from 1980. Little published development history exists for this specific spring.

Monthly Climate
31°
Jan
37°
Feb
47°
Mar
55°
Apr
63°
May
76°
Jun
78°
Jul
76°
Aug
68°
Sep
56°
Oct
43°
Nov
32°
Dec
Annual Precip: 9.4 in Annual Snow: 14.6 in
Best Time to Visit
January Air 31°F · Water 85°F · +54° contrast
December Air 32°F · Water 85°F · +53° contrast
February Air 37°F · Water 85°F · +48° contrast
January offers 46°F more contrast than July
Current Conditions
39°F
Clear NNW 37.0 mph 43% Good soaking weather
Thursday 74° Low 34° Sunny
Spring is +11° warmer
Friday 82° Low 41° Sunny
Spring is +3° warmer
Saturday 86° Low 46° Sunny
Sunday 85° Low 50° Sunny 1% precip
Monday 89° Low 48° Sunny
Water Chemistry Sampled 1974-12-20

The water at San Ysidro Hot Springs contains 9490 mg/L total dissolved solids. 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).

Higher mineral concentration for therapeutic soaking
Calcium 390 mg/L
May support bone density and joint health
Magnesium 65 mg/L
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Sodium 3,000 mg/L
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Sulfate 2,600 mg/L
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Chloride 2,400 mg/L
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
Iron 420 µg/L
Iron-rich springs may support circulation
Where to Stay

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Nearby Camping
Vista Linda Campground 14.2 mi away

Overview Vista Linda Campground is a first come, first serve campground in the San Diego Canyon on the Jemez National Recreation Area. There are thirteen sites throughout the campground. Potable water and vault toilets are provided amenities. Each campsite has picnic tables, a fire ring, and a charcoal pedestal. Sites with shad features are available; not all sites provide shade features.  Recreation Vista Linda Campground is one of five developed campgrounds in the Jemez National Recreation...

Reservable Yes
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Mile-High Advisory 5,612 ft

San Ysidro Hot Springs sits at 5,612 feet above sea level, way above the mile-high mark. You may not feel the altitude strongly, but hot water still dehydrates you faster at elevation. UV is about 22% stronger than at sea level, so bring sunscreen and drink more water than you normally would.

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Temperature
85°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 85°F (29°C)
Avg Air Temp 55°F
Above Ambient +30°F
Mild soaking conditions May
Access
Road Access Short Walk
Nearest Road North Access
Distance to Road 0.3 mi
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at San Ysidro Hot Springs?
San Ysidro Hot Springs has a water temperature of 85°F (29°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is San Ysidro Hot Springs located?
San Ysidro Hot Springs is located in Sandoval County, New Mexico at 5,612 feet elevation, near Jemez Pueblo. Coordinates: 35.5400°N, 106.8540°W.
How do I get to San Ysidro Hot Springs?
San Ysidro Hot Springs has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being North Access (0.3 mi from the road).
Can I camp near San Ysidro Hot Springs?
Yes, Vista Linda Campground is located nearby (14.2 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at San Ysidro Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride, Iron. Total dissolved solids measure 9,490 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at San Ysidro Hot Springs?
San Ysidro Hot Springs is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is San Ysidro Hot Springs crowded?
San Ysidro Hot Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to San Ysidro Hot Springs?
Essentials for San Ysidro Hot Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.
Sources: USGS NWIS