Outdoors NearbyTurkey Creek Hot Springs
Hot seeps along Turkey Creek in the Gila Wilderness, where bathers build rock pools that mix spring and creek water. You can soak at Turkey Creek Hot Springs for free.
| Access | Free, public land In the Gila Wilderness; requires a rough drive and a long hike. |
|---|---|
| Type | Natural spring |
| Location | Gila, NM Managed by USFS Gila NF (Gila Wilderness) Directions (approximate location; check the official map) |
| Water | springs reach 165 °F, cooled by the creek |
Best time to soak: Turkey Creek Hot Springs
Most people soak in the cooler months. From December to February average highs around Gila stay at 56 to 60 °F, with nights down to 17 °F. Expect frost from November to April. Check road and trail conditions with the land manager before driving up. From June to July highs reach 89 to 90 °F. Hot water on a hot day dehydrates you fast, so soak in short sessions and drink water.
| Month | High | Low | Rain days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 57 °F | 17 °F | 3 |
| Feb | 60 °F | 22 °F | 3 |
| Mar | 67 °F | 26 °F | 2 |
| Apr | 73 °F | 30 °F | 1 |
| May | 81 °F | 36 °F | 1 |
| Jun | 90 °F | 44 °F | 2 |
| Jul | 89 °F | 53 °F | 7 |
| Aug | 87 °F | 53 °F | 8 |
| Sep | 83 °F | 45 °F | 4 |
| Oct | 75 °F | 33 °F | 3 |
| Nov | 65 °F | 24 °F | 2 |
| Dec | 56 °F | 18 °F | 3 |
Pack for the hot springs
- Battery-free floating water thermometer Check a pool before you get in. Natural springs can run hotter than they look. View on Amazon
- Top pick 4Monster quick-dry microfiber towel with case Packs small for the hike to the pools and dries in the car on the way home. View on Amazon
-
Illustration SIMARI quick-dry water shoes for women and men Grip on slick rock and gravel pool bottoms, and they dry fast on the walk out. View on Amazon
We haven't tested these ourselves; we chose them by size and specs. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Check the current price on Amazon.
More hot springs nearby
- Lightfeather Hot Spring Free
- Jordan Hot Springs Free
- San Francisco Hot Springs Free
- Sierra Grande Lodge Day pass
- Blackstone Hotsprings Day pass
- Fire Water Lodge Guests only
- Hoosier Hot Springs & Inn Day pass
- Hot Springs Glamp Camp Guests only
Sources
Access, prices and rules come from these official pages, checked October 2026. Hot springs close for weather, repairs or high water, so confirm before you go.
Something changed? Tell us.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Turkey Creek Hot Springs cost?
Yes. Turkey Creek Hot Springs is on public land with no soaking fee.
How hot is Turkey Creek Hot Springs?
Springs reach 165 °F, cooled by the creek.