Indian Gardens Spring (CCC campsite), Kohls Ranch, AZ

## Overview Indian Gardens Spring is a remarkable natural spring nestled in the Ponderosa pine country near Kohls Ranch in Gila County, Arizona. The spring sits at the site of a historic Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp that was established in the spring of 1933. During that era, CCC workers were stationed at Indian Gardens with the mission of replanting the surrounding forest, which had been heavily logged due to the density and value of the old-growth Ponderosa pines. The CCC constructed a retaining wall around the spring — stonework that is still visible today — as part of their efforts to manage and protect the water source. Over the decades, the community of Kohls Ranch installed a tap to channel the spring water to nearby subdivisions. However, the spring has proven to have a life of its own. In recent years, the water flow has exceeded and bypassed the tapped section, with water now gushing above and around the original CCC-built wall. Visitors have observed the spring suddenly shifting its flow path, with the water changing from clear and low-turbidity to dark and muddy in a matter of seconds as a new channel opens — a vivid reminder of the dynamic underground hydrology at work beneath the surface. The area also serves a practical role in wildfire management: Arizona keeps a gate at the entrance because Indian Gardens functions as a pick-up point for large water pillows (portable water bladders) used in firefighting emergencies. The spring is reported to flow year-round, and the surrounding forest of tall Ponderosa pines makes it a peaceful and scenic spot to visit. ## Directions Starting from Kohls Ranch: 1. Head east on **AZ-260** (also referred to locally as AZ-265/E State Highway 260) toward Payson. 2. Follow the highway for approximately **15 miles**. 3. Watch for the signed **"PaleoSite"** on the right side of the road — this landmark appears just before the Indian Gardens site. 4. Immediately after the PaleoSite, look for an **unmarked road** continuing straight ahead (do not turn left). If you make a left-hand turn after the PaleoSite, you've gone too far — simply turn around and come back; it's only a matter of minutes. 5. The unmarked road starts as paved but quickly transitions to **gravel**. 6. About **10 meters** after the road becomes gravel, you'll encounter a **closed gate**. The gate is kept closed because the site serves as an emergency water staging area. You will need to park and proceed on foot past the small gate. 7. Follow the **dirt trail** for approximately **100 meters**. As you get closer, you'll hear the sound of water flowing. 8. You'll reach a **small bridge**. The spring is located approximately **10 yards to the west** of this bridge. **GPS Coordinates:** 34.323441, -111.10257 ## What to Expect Indian Gardens Spring is an active, flowing spring set in a beautiful forested area at roughly 5,000 feet elevation in the Mogollon Rim country. The spring produces a strong, audible flow — you can hear the water gushing before you see it. The historic CCC stone wall is still intact and adds a sense of history to the site. The walk from the gate to the spring is short (about 100 meters along a dirt trail) and relatively easy, though the path is unpaved and may be uneven. A small bridge marks the area near the spring's outlet. The surrounding Ponderosa pine forest provides shade and a tranquil atmosphere, making it a pleasant spot for a quiet visit or meditation. Visitors have historically used this spring as a drinking water source, and the water has been reported to taste clean when flowing clear. However, be aware that the spring's flow can shift suddenly — observers have witnessed the water change from clear to muddy in seconds as the underground channel adjusts. Water conditions can vary, and turbidity may change without warning. The spring is open day and night, with no posted hours. Access requires passing through a closed gate on foot, so plan to park your vehicle just before the gate. The site is relatively remote and there are no facilities, so come prepared. The area is especially beautiful in spring and fall when the Ponderosa forest is at its most inviting.