Nevada’s natural geothermal hot springs may not be as numerous as the state’s famed casinos, but it’s a safe bet you’ll feel like a winner after soaking at some of these special places.
Nevada has hot springs spread throughout the state on public lands. Some are close to Las Vegas and Reno, while others are much more remote.
Below is a description and photo from each of my favorite hot springs. And below that are descriptions of other locations that I have yet to visit but are worth mentioning.
I created a Google Map with exact locations that you can view HERE.
GOLDSTRIKE CANYON
Close to Las Vegas and Hoover Dam, these pools are no secret and get plenty of use. But it’s one of my favorite hikes near Vegas and worth the effort. There’s a roughly 90-minute hike each way that includes a couple spots requiring ropes to descend and climb back out, so it’s not for everyone. Once there you’ll enjoy warm pools tucked inside a narrow canyon. The Colorado River is just a few steps away.
FISH LAKE VALLEY
Near California border where Highway 6 and 95 intersect. This hot spring has impressive views of the White Mountain Range and its 14,000-foot peaks. There’s a small concrete pool for people to enjoy the warm water, next to two natural ponds surrounded by reeds.
There’s plenty of space around the ponds for camping, and it’s accessible for RVs, so expect to share the concrete pool with others, especially around sunset.
HOT CREEK AT WAYNE KIRCH
Best thing about this place is that the hot spring is a natural creek and the warm water flows for a good distance. The creek widens at one spot and a short trail from a parking area leads here. Clear, turquoise water creates a beautiful setting to enjoy. Look for the bright-red crawfish living in the reeds on either side of the sandy-bottom creek.
SPENCER HOT SPRINGS
Smack dab in the middle of the state, Spencer Hot Springs has several hot tubs available to soak. Not far from Austin on Highway 50, this is a potential stop for travelers on The Loneliest Highway in America.
ALKALI HOT SPRINGS
Just one small tub available, this hot spring is not far off the Highway 95 between Tonopah and Goldfield in Esmerelda County. Not the most scenic location compared to the others already mentioned above.
SMITH CREEK VALLEY SPRINGS
An example of old facilities deteriorating into disrepair and dysfunction. Soaking tubs have either been removed or fallen apart. Presently, Smith Creek Valley Hot Springs are not worth the visit.
TREGO HOT SPRINGS
Located on the edge of the Black Rock Desert, this is a large ditch or pond that is easily the largest pool in this collection of Nevada hot springs. Find it by taking Jungo Road from Highway 447 out of Gerlach. It’s 20 miles distance from Gerlach to the springs, which are right next to a set of train tracks.
BOG HOT SPRINGS
Like Wayne Kirch’s Hot Creek, Bog Hot Springs is actually a natural stream with warm water flowing through it. This spring, found in the northwest corner of the state, is one of the remotest in all of Nevada. And because of that there’s a chance you’ll have it all to yourself. Find it by driving 15 miles west of Denio Junction on Highway 140. The turnoff is easy to find on the north side of the Rt. 140.
