Spence Hot Springs 2026: A Hidden Gem in New Mexico’s Jemez

Spence Hot Springs, nestled in the Jemez Mountains within the Santa Fe National Forest, is a must-visit natural soaking destination in New Mexico. Located just seven miles north of Jemez Springs along Highway 4, this scenic spot offers tiered pools, a unique cave spring, and breathtaking views of the Jemez Valley. Open year-round, it’s free to visit and easily accessible via a short 0.7-mile trail. 

The springs are managed by the U.S. Forest Service, and although camping is not allowed, several nearby campgrounds offer great options for extended stays. With a rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars, Spence Hot Springs is perfect for those seeking a peaceful and rejuvenating experience. Be sure to explore SoakDestinations for more on New Mexico’s best hot springs!

What Are Spence Hot Springs? Quick Overview

Spence Hot Springs Directions & Map

Spence Hot Springs Photos: A Glimpse Into the Gallery

Important Information About Spence Hot Springs

What Are Spence Hot Springs Hours?

The springs are open year-round from sunrise to sunset. There are no gates or staffed hours, but overnight stays are strictly prohibited by the U.S. Forest Service. The small parking lot fills quickly on weekends, so arriving early in the morning is strongly advised for all visitors.

How Do I Get Spence Hot Springs Tickets?

Entry to Spence Hot Springs is completely free — no tickets, no reservations, and no passes are required. The springs are located on National Forest public land. Simply park in the paved lot on the east side of Highway 4 and follow the trail down to the pools.

What Are Spence Hot Springs Directions?

From Albuquerque, head north on I-25, take Exit 242 toward Bernalillo, then follow Highway 550 north and turn onto Highway 4 toward Jemez Springs. Continue seven miles north of Jemez Springs on Highway 4 until you see a paved parking lot on the east side of the road. There is no trail signage at the lot, so use GPS coordinates (35.7864° N, 106.6949° W) to confirm your location.

Is Clothing Required at Spence Hot Springs?

Yes. Nudity is a violation of New Mexico state law at this location, and Forest Service rangers actively patrol and issue citations to violators. Swimsuits are required at all times for all visitors, regardless of the time of day or how few people are present at the springs.

What Is the Spence Hot Springs Phone Number?

The springs have no direct phone number as they are an unmanaged primitive site. For current trail conditions, accessibility updates, or safety information, contact the Jemez Ranger District of the Santa Fe National Forest directly at (575) 829-3535. Staff can provide seasonal road and trail guidance.

Spence Hot Springs Reviews: Let Me Share My Experience

Spence Hot Springs has a solid 4.1 out of 5 stars rating from visitors who rave about its scenic trail, tiered pools, and unique cave spring. The peaceful, natural setting in the Jemez Mountains offers a memorable soaking experience, with stunning views of the valley. 

Guests appreciate the free entry and the uncrowded, serene atmosphere, though some note the small parking lot fills up quickly. While the trail can be muddy or slippery, visitors find the experience well worth the effort, especially for those seeking a rustic adventure.

Spence Hot Springs Weather & Temperature Yearly

The Jemez Mountains experience a high-desert climate with four distinct seasons. Spring and fall are the best times to visit, offering mild hiking temperatures and fewer crowds. Winters can bring snow and icy trail conditions, while summer afternoons often produce brief thunderstorms. The springs remain open and enjoyable in every season for well-prepared visitors who time their arrival right.

Spence Hot Springs Trail: Hike Your Way to the Pools

The Spence Hot Springs trail is rated moderate on AllTrails, covering 0.7 miles out-and-back with 144 feet of elevation gain and a completion time of 30 to 60 minutes. The path descends into a canyon, crosses a wooden bridge over the San Antonio River, and climbs the opposite hillside to reach the pools. Portions of the trail can be steep, muddy, and slippery depending on recent weather, so sturdy waterproof footwear is strongly recommended for all visitors.

Spence Hot Springs Cave: The Hidden Gem Within the Springs

One of the most distinctive features at Spence Hot Springs is the small cave at the middle pool, fed by a separate spring maintaining approximately 100°F — the warmest and clearest water on-site. The cave comfortably fits two to three people and offers a sheltered, intimate soaking experience unlike anything available at the open-air pools below. Visitors willing to duck through the narrow entrance are rewarded with warm mineral water, smooth rock walls, and a sense of total seclusion that makes the entire hike worthwhile.

Spence Hot Springs Camping: Overnight Options in the Area

Overnight camping is not permitted at Spence Hot Springs or along the trail. Campfires and glass containers are also strictly prohibited throughout the area. However, several excellent camping options within a short drive allow visitors to base themselves nearby for an early morning soak.

• Jemez Falls Campground — U.S. Forest Service campground seven miles north on Hwy 4, with vault toilets, fire rings, and easy access to Jemez Falls at 7,880 ft elevation.
• San Antonio Campground — Primitive riverside campground along Rio San Antonio near La Cueva, accessed via Hwy 4 and Hwy 126, roughly 15 miles north of the springs.
• Fenton Lake State Park — Family-friendly state park with developed campsites, electric hookups, and a fishing lake, located about 20 miles north of the springs.
• East Fork Campground — Smaller primitive Forest Service site along the East Fork of the Jemez River, offering a peaceful forest setting close to the springs.
• Battleship Rock Picnic Area — A scenic day-use and camping option right on Highway 4 with restrooms, picnic tables, and trailhead access to McCauley Warm Springs.

Things to Do and Nearby Attractions Near Spence Hot Springs

Spence Hot Springs sits at the heart of one of New Mexico’s most scenically and culturally rich corridors. The following destinations are all worth adding to your itinerary.

• Valles Caldera National Preserve — A breathtaking 89,000-acre volcanic caldera with sweeping meadows, elk herds, and world-class hiking trails, located about 15 miles east on Hwy 4.
• Soda Dam — A remarkable 50-foot-tall natural rock formation created by centuries of calcium carbonate mineral deposits, located just two miles south of the springs along Hwy 4.
• Battleship Rock — A dramatic volcanic formation rising like a ship’s prow above the Jemez Valley, serving as the trailhead for McCauley Warm Springs and offering excellent picnicking.
• Jemez Falls — A stunning multi-tiered waterfall at 7,880 feet elevation, located seven miles north of the springs with a short, rewarding overlook trail and a developed campground.
• Jemez Historic Site — A preserved 500-year-old Pueblo ruin and 17th-century Spanish mission church in Jemez Springs village, featuring a 1,400-foot interpretive walking trail.
• McCauley Warm Springs — Natural geothermal pools in a high mountain meadow, reached via a 3.8-mile loop from Battleship Rock with panoramic views across the Jemez Mountains.

Tips for Visiting Spence Hot Springs

A little preparation goes a long way at this primitive, fee-free destination with no on-site facilities. Keep these practical points in mind before you head out.

• Arrive early on weekdays — The lot holds only seven vehicles and fills fast; weekday mornings offer the best chance of parking and an uncrowded soak.
• No overnight camping — The springs are strictly day-use only; plan to arrive after sunrise and depart before sunset to comply with Forest Service regulations.
• No glass containers — Alcohol is permitted but only in cans or sealed plastic; absolutely no glass is allowed anywhere along the trail or at the pools.
• Wear a swimsuit — Nudity is illegal under New Mexico state law, and rangers actively patrol and issue citations; always come prepared with appropriate swimwear.
• Watch trail conditions — The path can be slippery, muddy, or icy by season; waterproof hiking shoes or boots are strongly recommended for a safe and comfortable hike.
• Avoid nose submersion — The Forest Service advises keeping your head above water to minimize the risk of Naegleria Fowleri, a naturally occurring amoeba found in unmonitored warm springs.

What to Bring When Visiting Spence Hot Springs?

The springs have no restrooms, showers, food vendors, or any other facilities. Pack thoroughly for a fully self-sufficient outing in the Jemez Mountains.

• Towel and swimsuit — Always bring your own towel; a swimsuit is legally required at all times and essential for any visit to the springs.
• Plenty of drinking water — Mineral soaking is dehydrating especially in warm weather; bring more water than you expect to need for both the hike and the soak.
• Snacks or a packed meal — There are no food vendors at or near the trailhead; a packed lunch is ideal for a full-day outing in the Jemez Mountains area.
• Waterproof footwear — The trail crosses the river and can be very muddy; sandals are not recommended, and waterproof hiking shoes keep your footing secure throughout.
• Bug spray and sunscreen — Evening visits in warmer months bring insects near the river; the New Mexico sun is also intense at elevation, so bring both protection layers.
• Trash bag — There are no waste facilities on-site; packing out all rubbish is both a courtesy to other visitors and a Leave No Trace obligation on public land.

Where to Eat and Stay Near Spence Hot Springs?

After a rewarding soak at Spence Hot Springs, the village of Jemez Springs and surrounding areas offer satisfying dining and comfortable accommodation options for every type of visitor.

• 🔵 Blue markers represent recommended restaurants near Spence Hot Springs. 
• 🔴 Red markers represent recommended hotels near Spence Hot Springs.

Restaurants:

• Los Ojos Restaurant & Saloon (Jemez Springs) — A beloved local institution serving hearty New Mexican cuisine and cold drinks, just minutes from the springs — perfect for a post-soak meal.
• Jemez Springs Bath House Café (Jemez Springs) — A casual spot offering light snacks and beverages right in the village, ideal for a quick refuel before or after your hike to the springs.
• Range Café (Bernalillo) — A well-loved New Mexico chain about 30 miles south, offering generous classic New Mexican breakfast and lunch dishes in a colorful, comfortable setting.
• La Cueva Lodge & Café (La Cueva) — A charming small café near the junction of Hwy 4 and Hwy 126, serving simple homestyle meals in a quiet mountain setting north of the springs.
• Bob Cat Bite (Santa Fe) — A Santa Fe institution about 50 miles away, famous for its green chile cheeseburgers — well worth the drive for visitors continuing toward the capital.

Hotels:

• Canon del Rio Retreat (Jemez Springs) — An upscale adobe-style bed and breakfast along the Jemez River with spa services, a jacuzzi, six individually decorated rooms, and included breakfast.
• Jemez Mountain Inn (Jemez Springs) — A charming inn with four uniquely decorated rooms and a new two-room Sunflower Suite with kitchen; family and pet friendly with easy village access.
• Dancing Bear Lodge (Jemez Springs) — Six adobe-style rooms with satellite TV and Wi-Fi, conveniently located near the village plaza and open most of the year including Christmas Day.
• Drury Inn & Suites Albuquerque North (Albuquerque) — A well-reviewed hotel roughly 49 miles from the springs offering complimentary breakfast, comfortable rooms, and easy freeway access for day-trippers.
• Holiday Inn Express Santa Fe (Santa Fe) — A modern, well-equipped hotel about 50 miles east of the springs with free Wi-Fi, fitness center, and comfortable rooms ideal for weekend explorers.

Final Thoughts

Spence Hot Springs is truly one of New Mexico’s most authentic and rewarding primitive soaking experiences. From the tiered geothermal pools and the hidden cave spring to the scenic canyon trail and mountain views, every part of the visit delivers something memorable. Whether you make it a quick day trip from Albuquerque or pair it with a multi-day Jemez Mountains adventure, Spence Hot Springs never disappoints. Plan ahead, arrive early, pack well, and prepare to discover one of New Mexico’s finest natural treasures.

FAQs

Q. Is Spence Hot Springs worth visiting? 

Absolutely. Despite the pools cooling slightly over the years, the free entry, scenic canyon trail, unique cave spring, and beautiful mountain surroundings make Spence Hot Springs one of the most rewarding primitive hot spring experiences in all of New Mexico.

Q. Are dogs allowed at Spence Hot Springs? 

Yes. Spence Hot Springs is pet-friendly, and dogs are welcome on the trail and at the pools. Owners should keep pets under control, clean up after them, and ensure they do not disturb other guests enjoying the springs.

Q. Can you camp at Spence Hot Springs? 

No. Overnight camping, campfires, and glass containers are strictly prohibited at the springs and along the trail. The nearest developed camping options include Jemez Falls Campground and Fenton Lake State Park, both within 20 miles.

Q. Which town is closest to Spence Hot Springs? 

Jemez Springs is the closest town, located seven miles south of the springs on Highway 4. It offers several lodging options, local restaurants, the village bath house, and easy access to additional hot springs throughout the Jemez Mountains.