Castilla Springs

Utah County, Utah · Near Mapleton
40.0380°N, 111.5290°W · 4,920 ft
104°F 4,920 ft Short Walk Camping nearby (5.8 mi)

Castilla Springs flows at 104°F near Mapleton with exceptionally high mineralization of 6,610 mg/L TDS, featuring elevated sodium, sulfate, and particularly high chloride concentrations reaching 2,320 mg/L.

Location

Located at 4,920 feet elevation in the transition zone between Utah Valley and the Wasatch Mountains east of Mapleton, the spring emerges where mountain canyons meet foothill benches. Surrounding terrain features oak-maple brushlands and scattered pines characteristic of the Wasatch foothills, with mountain streams draining nearby canyons. The area receives substantial winter snowpack averaging 72.3 inches annually alongside 19 inches of total precipitation. The spring sits 154 meters from the nearest road in a relatively undeveloped foothill setting.

Access requires a short walk from the nearest road. The highly mineralized water is not potable. Best visited during late spring through fall when foothill access roads are passable; winter snows can make approach difficult. Diamond Campground offers developed facilities 9.3 kilometers away. The extreme mineral content makes this spring primarily of scientific interest rather than recreational use.

History of Castilla Springs

The Castilla name likely derives from Spanish-era place naming common in Utah County, though specific origin documentation is scarce. The spring's location in traditional Ute territory suggests long-standing Indigenous awareness, but written records of early Euro-American use are limited. No major commercial development is documented, and the spring appears to have remained largely unmodified.

Monthly Climate
25°
Jan
29°
Feb
37°
Mar
43°
Apr
54°
May
68°
Jun
76°
Jul
74°
Aug
65°
Sep
50°
Oct
37°
Nov
25°
Dec
Annual Precip: 19.0 in Annual Snow: 72.3 in
Best Time to Visit
January Air 25°F · Water 104°F · +79° contrast
December Air 25°F · Water 104°F · +79° contrast
February Air 29°F · Water 104°F · +75° contrast
January offers 51°F more contrast than July
Current Conditions
45°F
Clear S 16.6 mph 66% Good soaking weather
Thursday 72° Low 33° Mostly Sunny 2% precip
Spring is +32° warmer
Friday 74° Low 40° Sunny
Spring is +30° warmer
Saturday 73° Low 41° Sunny
Spring is +31° warmer
Sunday 80° Low 39° Sunny
Spring is +24° warmer
Monday 88° Low 43° Sunny
Spring is +16° warmer
Water Chemistry Sampled 1967-10-20

The water at Castilla Springs is slightly alkaline (pH 7.9) with 6610 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).

pH 7.9 Slightly Alkaline
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
Higher mineral concentration for therapeutic soaking
Calcium 469 mg/L
May support bone density and joint health
Magnesium 80 mg/L
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Sodium 1,680 mg/L
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Sulfate 1,400 mg/L
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Chloride 2,320 mg/L
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
Where to Stay

Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Nearby Camping
Diamond 5.8 mi away

Overview Diamond Campground is located among shady cottonwoods and willow at an elevation of 5,200 feet. The family sites are located just 15 miles from Spanish Fork and the group sites are 2-3 miles further. Visitors enjoy exploring local trails and relaxing along the stream.Recreation The stream and creek offer fishing for brown and cutthroat trout. An interpretive nature trail winds through the campground along the stream. Hiking, biking and off-road vehicle trails are abundant in the area...

Reservable Yes
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Temperature
104°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 104°F (40°C)
Avg Air Temp 49°F
Above Ambient +55°F
Great soaking conditions May
Access
Road Access Short Walk
Distance to Road 505 ft
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Castilla Springs?
Castilla Springs has a water temperature of 104°F (40°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Castilla Springs located?
Castilla Springs is located in Utah County, Utah at 4,920 feet elevation, near Mapleton. Coordinates: 40.0380°N, 111.5290°W.
How do I get to Castilla Springs?
Castilla Springs has Short Walk road access (505 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Castilla Springs?
Yes, Diamond is located nearby (5.8 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Castilla Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 7.9 (slightly alkaline). Total dissolved solids measure 6,610 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at Castilla Springs?
Castilla 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 Castilla Springs crowded?
Castilla Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Castilla Springs?
Essentials for Castilla Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.
Sources: USGS NWIS