Desert Gold, It’s in the Water

Ben and Wyn, Contributing Writers

Bio: Ben and Wyn are midlife nomads uncovering the secrets of rural America. Follow their adventures on Instagram and Facebook @nomadhermit.substack.com, @ruralexplorers @benwyn.ruralexplorer

Elephant Butte Lake

A Hidden Oasis 

If you want to unplug in a time warp, head down I-25 to Exit 79. Blink, and you might miss it—but that would be a mistake. 

Truth or Consequences, New Mexico—known as T or C—is a funky desert town of about 6,000, roughly 120 miles north of the U.S.-Mexico border. Its history stretches back to prehistoric peoples who built pit houses and pueblo-like dwellings along canyons feeding the Rio Grande. The river still flows, and linger long enough, and you can feel the echoes of the past. 

Hot Springs Through the Ages 

For centuries, Native Americans gathered at mineral hot springs that bubble from a rift along the Rio Grande. Even Apache warrior Geronimo is said to have soaked in these healing waters. 

In 1916, the Elephant Butte Dam created New Mexico’s largest lake just upstream from T or C. Before 1950, the town was called Hot Springs. That year, radio host Ralph Edwards challenged towns to rename themselves after his quiz show Truth or Consequences. Hot Springs accepted, and T or C was born. 

Adventure Around Every Corner 

For adventurers, T or C delivers. Elephant Butte Reservoir is famous for record-breaking bass, walleye, catfish, crappie, white and black bass, and stripers. Fifteen miles south, Caballo Reservoir and Percha Dam State Park offer shaded camping along the river. Spring and summer bring rafting on the Rio Grande, while hiking trails abound—from two-mile lakeside loops to weeklong treks on the Continental Divide Trail in the nearby Gila National Forest. 

Cliff dwellings at Gila National Forest

Soak It All In 

The true treasure, however, is the hot springs. Temperatures range from 98 to 115 degrees, with 38 trace minerals and a neutral pH of 7. Mineral-rich and naturally germ-resistant, the waters soothe both body and mind. Some spas play soft music, others burn sage, and some let you soak under the open sky. 

Our favorite is Riverbend Hot Springs, where you can watch the Rio Grande flow past Turtleback Mountain at sunset. Private and communal pools are available, and there’s RV access. Picture yourself immersed in healing waters, the desert stretching around you, feeling the same peace that pueblo people experienced centuries ago. 

Hillsboro, New Mexico

T or C is a revelation for those seeking a place off the beaten path to unwind. Adventure, history and relaxation coexist here, making this desert oasis a true hidden gem.