McCauley Hot Springs, Natural thermal springs in Sandoval County, United States.
McCauley Hot Springs is a thermal spring complex in Sandoval County where geothermal water feeds into a series of natural soaking pools. The source water emerges at approximately 99 degrees Fahrenheit and flows through multiple basins surrounded by ponderosa pine forest.
The site was developed as a recreational destination in the 1930s when the Civilian Conservation Corps constructed facilities at the springs. This effort transformed the location into an accessible public soaking area within the national forest.
Native American tribes and early settlers utilized these mineral-rich waters for their therapeutic properties before the area became part of the national forest system.
A hiking trail of roughly four miles from Battleship Rock campground takes visitors through Santa Fe National Forest to reach the soaking pools. Proper footwear and carrying water are important since the route passes through forested terrain.
The springs are fed by the Valles Caldera geothermal system, and water temperature drops noticeably as it flows downslope through successive pools. Visitors can choose between warmer and cooler soaking spots depending on their preference.
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