Brockway Hot Springs

Placer County, California · Near Kings Beach
39.2260°N, 120.0100°W · 6,337 ft
131°F 6,337 ft Roadside Camping nearby (8.9 mi)

Brockway Hot Springs surges at 131°F directly into Lake Tahoe's frigid waters at 6,337 feet elevation near Kings Beach. Located just 34 feet from Speedboat Avenue, this roadside-accessible spring produces water 83°F warmer than the area's annual average, creating warm-water zones along an otherwise cold shoreline.

Location

The spring emerges directly onto Lake Tahoe's rocky eastern shore, where thermal water mingles visibly with the alpine lake's famous crystal-clear depths. The surrounding Sierra Nevada landscape presents granite peaks and dense conifer forests typical of the lake's high-elevation setting. In winter, ice and snow frame the steaming water—a dramatic seasonal contrast that attracts photographers and visitors seeking the intersection of thermal and alpine environments.

Year-round roadside access makes this one of California's most convenient thermal springs. Winter visits offer the most dramatic visual spectacle as thermal steam rises conspicuously against snow-covered mountains. Summer attracts visitors combining spring exploration with lake recreation, though expect crowds near the popular shoreline area.

History of Brockway Hot Springs

Brockway Hot Springs exemplifies the Sierra Nevada's geothermal character, where deep crustal heat rises along fault zones intersecting the lake basin. The spring's direct discharge into Tahoe represents an unusual configuration where thermal and glacial-melt water interact at the surface, creating microhabitats that support specialized aquatic life.

Monthly Climate
35°
Jan
34°
Feb
37°
Mar
41°
Apr
48°
May
59°
Jun
68°
Jul
67°
Aug
61°
Sep
51°
Oct
41°
Nov
34°
Dec
Annual Precip: 29.5 in Annual Snow: 151.0 in
Best Time to Visit
February Air 34°F · Water 131°F · +97° contrast
December Air 34°F · Water 131°F · +97° contrast
January Air 35°F · Water 131°F · +96° contrast
February offers 33°F more contrast than August
Current Conditions
49°F
NW 1.4 mph 73% Good soaking weather
Thursday 66° Low 47° Sunny
Spring is +65° warmer
Friday 66° Low 45° Sunny
Spring is +65° warmer
Saturday 69° Low 46° Sunny
Spring is +62° warmer
Sunday 72° Low 49° Sunny
Spring is +59° warmer
Monday 72° Low 51° Sunny
Spring is +59° warmer
Where to Stay

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Nearby Camping
Alpine Meadow Campground 8.9 mi away

Overview Located close to Lake Tahoe, Truckee, and Reno, Martis has a beautiful, peaceful campground off the beaten path. Martis Creek area features hiking, biking, canoeing, kayaking, and catch and release trout fishing. Recreation Fishing, kayaking, canoeing, walking, bicycling, picnicing. And of course camping. Facilities Vault toilets, potable water available at campground entrance, ampitheater. Natural Features Mountains, alpine valley, pine trees, lake, wild animals. Nearby Attractio...

Fee Payment will be made through Recreation.gov
Reservable Yes
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Mile-High Advisory 6,337 ft

Brockway Hot Springs sits at 6,337 feet above sea level, way above the mile-high mark. You may not feel the altitude strongly, but hot water still dehydrates you faster at elevation. UV is about 25% stronger than at sea level, so bring sunscreen and drink more water than you normally would.

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Temperature
131°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 131°F (55°C)
Avg Air Temp 48°F
Above Ambient +83°F
Great soaking conditions May
Access
Road Access Roadside
Nearest Road Speedboat Avenue
Distance to Road 110 ft
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Brockway Hot Springs?
Brockway Hot Springs has a water temperature of 131°F (55°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Brockway Hot Springs located?
Brockway Hot Springs is located in Placer County, California at 6,337 feet elevation, near Kings Beach. Coordinates: 39.2260°N, 120.0100°W.
How do I get to Brockway Hot Springs?
Brockway Hot Springs has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being Speedboat Avenue (110 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Brockway Hot Springs?
Yes, Alpine Meadow Campground is located nearby (8.9 miles away). Payment will be made through Recreation.gov.
Is it safe to soak at Brockway Hot Springs?
At 131°F, Brockway Hot Springs is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Brockway Hot Springs crowded?
Brockway Hot Springs is accessible from a paved road, making it easy to reach. Weekends and holidays may be busier — consider visiting on a weekday for a quieter experience.
What should I bring to Brockway Hot Springs?
Essentials for Brockway Hot Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in. The water is over 110°F — test the temperature before entering and watch for scalding near the source.