If you’ve never visited a hot spring in the winter, you’re truly missing out. Natural hot springs are abundant in New Mexico, as are manufactured hot springs, so we’ve picked some of our favorite destinations to fight off the cold winter air. If you’re looking for some of the best RV road trip destinations this winter, a New Mexico hot spring deserves a place on your bucket list.
San Antonio Hot Springs
San Antonio Hot Springs is located in Jemez Springs, New Mexico, a small village outside the Valles Caldera National Preserve. Jemez Springs has earned the title of “village,” with only 250 year-round residents as of the 2010 census. This hot spring is a bit of a hike from Forest Service Road 376, but the gorgeous views and relaxing soak are worth the trek. Be aware that some roads close due to seasonality, so be sure to plan and check nearby trails and forestry warnings before heading to the springs.
If you’re looking for things to do around the hot spring, Jemez Springs is right near a historic pueblo that shares its name, meaning you can visit the natural hot springs and learn more about Native American culture on the same trip. Once again, check for seasonal closures before heading to this New Mexico hot spring, and be prepared to hike.
Spence Hot Spring
This hot spring is right nearby Jemez Springs as well. The Spence Hot Spring is a small hike from the parking area. Remember that this parking area can only hold seven cars, so plan when heading to this hot spring.
Another thing to remember is that the hot spring is on the smaller side and has been previously damaged from overuse. Be respectful of your surroundings, and bring no class containers to the hot spring. The area is not a campsite, and fires are not allowed. However, it is open for soaking, fishing, and hiking, making it a lovely recreation area for those willing to hike to the site.
As a note, the water in the hot springs, while about body temperature, has been cooling over the years, and the water quality is not monitored, so use this and any natural hot spring at your own risk. Also, while the hot spring may be “all-natural,” nudity is not allowed due to state laws.
Montezuma Hot Springs
Located in Montezuma, New Mexico, Montezuma Hot Springs are only six miles from Las Vegas, New Mexico, making them a must-see spot on a road trip. Many stories surround these natural hot springs, from tales of Native American warriors resting at the springs to rumors of Jesse James and Billy the Kid taking a break from crime to soak in hot water. While the historic Montezuma Hotel is no longer open to draw in customers, the hot springs are still available, and the Montezuma Hotel has been taken over by the United World College (USA).
The nearby United World College office maintains each hot spring, and the temperatures range from comfortably warm to the aptly-named “lobster pot,” coming in at 120°F (49°C). Be respectful of the area, and remember that bathing suits are required in this natural hot spring.
Ojo Caliente Hot Springs
Ojo Caliente Hot Springs is the site of a health resort. If you’re looking for a soothing spa experience complete with a hot sauna, hotel rooms, and a soak in the hot springs, you’ve come to the right place. This resort also includes a restaurant, making it a lovely spot for a day trip or to spend the night. If you’re not interested in the spa services, the hot springs are available with no reservation, meaning you can take a dip without dipping too far into your wallet.
This health spa is well worth the visit, and its charming hotel rooms include private hot springs with no limit on soak time, making this a great spot to stop on our hot springs tour of New Mexico. Who can say no to relaxing yoga with a nice soak in the hot springs?
Jemez Springs
Once again, we return to the site of some of the best natural hot springs on our list. This time, we’re focusing on the several hot springs bathhouses in Jemez Springs. Suppose you’re looking for the relaxing experience of a hot spring without a long hike and questionable water quality. In that case, you’ll be happy to know that Jemez Springs is home to several bathhouses, spas, and commercial hot springs.
Depending on the length of your trip, you could visit a new spa or bathhouse every day for almost a whole week in this cute town. However, if you’re looking to explore gorgeous New Mexico scenery while relaxing in soothing hot springs, you’ll want to add this village to your itinerary.
Truth or Consequences Hot Springs
Believe it or not, Truth or Consequences used to be called Hot Springs, New Mexico. Thanks to a 50 million-year-old fault line, the hot springs in this area have been soothing aches and pains for centuries. There are 21 geothermal soaking spots in this area, full of natural minerals and there to soothe your tired bones.
Truth or Consequences is home to some of the most mineralized water in the United States. While the waters themselves are entirely odorless, they do contain a large amount of chloride, meaning you can take a dip in the springs without worrying as much about germs or other contaminants you may find in other hot springs. There are also countless spas and bathhouses in Truth or Consequences for anyone who likes the warmth of a hot spring without worrying as much about the great outdoors.
If you’ve been inspired to start your own New Mexico Hot Springs RV tour this winter, stop into Good Sense RV before you hit the road. We offer complete RV tune-ups to ensure you’re all set for the road and general RV repairs and services. Also, check out our off-the-lot offerings if you’re looking for a new RV. No matter where you’re headed, Good Sense RV is here to tune up your RV.
