Hot Well Dunes Recreation Area

What to Expect 

The Hot Well Dunes Recreation Area is approximately 35 miles from Safford (the nearest city with all services including hospital). The area is generally accessible by all types of vehicles, but the road can get rough at times so be prepared to take it slow.  

Be aware that there is no electricity, drinking water, or phones at the site. If you plan on having a fire, we encourage you to bring your own wood due to a very limited amount available on site.  

Most use at the site occurs in the fall, winter and spring when temperatures are pleasant. Off-highway vehicle (OHV) use can be heavy on weekends during this time especially holiday weekends summers are extremely hot. 

There are campsites that have a picnic table and campfire ring, but if you do not need these amenities, feel free to pick any undeveloped spot that meets your needs (excluding the parking areas and areas enclosed by railings immediately around the tubs and wildlife viewing ponds). Facilities include two hot tubs, 10 tent/RV units, fire grills, and vault toilets.

Riding the Dunes

This 2,000-acre area of rolling sand dunes provides a great opportunity for off-highway vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts. The Hot Well Dunes Recreation Area is an area that has been designated open to vehicles visitors are allowed to ride all types of vehicles including sand rails, ATVs, motorbikes, and four-wheel drive trucks within the fenced area. There are low sparsely vegetated dunes for those preferring a slower paced ride while several larger dunes provide a challenge for the adventurous rider. OHV use is allowed outside of the fenced area on existing roads and trails. 

There are certain hazards in an open off-highway vehicle riding area that usually do not exist at other recreation areas. Please realize that when using this area, you are accepting those inherent risks. Riders come from different areas driving all types of vehicles and possessing varying skill levels. Always use common sense when operating vehicles and follow the posted rules. They have been suggested by your fellow users of the area. Always check for steep drop-offs or riders before powering over the crest of a dune. First-time visitors should be aware that the open area is fenced and should become familiar with the fence location before traveling at high speeds. 

Off-Highway Vehicles

All resident and non-resident off-highway vehicles (OHVs) designed by the manufacturer primarily for use over unimproved terrain and that weigh 2,500 pounds or less are required by law to display a valid OHV decal to operate on public and state trust lands in Arizona. This includes “street legal” vehicles that meet these two requirements.

The state requires nonresidents operating an OHV within Arizona to purchase a non-resident OHV decal. 

Learn more:

• Arizona State Parks Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Program
• Arizona Game & Fish: OHV Program
• Arizona Game & Fish: OHV Decals

Enjoying the Hot Tubs 

Hot Wells sprang into existence by accident back in 1928 when drillers seeking oil under the sand dunes broke into a pocket of hot water at the depth of 1,920 feet. The artesian well, now aided by a solar pump, produces water that reaches 106 degrees Fahrenheit. The remains of early drilling equipment can still be seen approximately 100 yards west of the well just off the entrance road.

The hot mineral water is great for soaking aching muscles after a day of riding the dunes, relieving pain of arthritis, or just relaxing from the stress of the day. It is important to remember that it is 106 degrees. 

At Hot Well Dunes, the hot tubs use a solar well pump and are typically full an hour after sunrise and an hour before sunset. The pump is off overnight, and each tub drains nightly. Overcast skies can also impact how much water the tubs receive.

People with high blood pressure heart ailments or other serious medical conditions should consult a doctor prior to using the tubs. This water may also be too warm for children, especially the very young. Adult supervision is always required for children using the tub. Always remember to use alcohol responsibly when recreating, especially when using the tubs.

Partners

Many of the site enhancements at Hot Well Dunes Recreation Area were funded through a grant from the Arizona State Parks Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Fund. Improvements to access roads were funded through a grant from the Arizona Game and Fish Department's Heritage Fund.