Hot Creek Springs
Hot Creek Springs flows at 151 degrees Fahrenheit on BLM land in Elko County at 6,140 feet elevation, requiring a 625-meter walk from the nearest road to reach the thermal discharge.
The spring emerges in high-elevation terrain managed by the Wells Field Office at over 6,000 feet, where sagebrush steppe transitions to montane vegetation. The area receives 12.1 inches of annual precipitation and 45.5 inches of snow, creating cooler and wetter conditions than lower-elevation Nevada springs. The setting provides views across northern Nevada basin-and-range topography, with the thermal waters creating visible alteration zones.
The creek name indicates the hot spring feeds or influences a drainage system, with thermal waters contributing to the local hydrology. The remote location limited historical development, though ranchers and prospectors likely used the spring as a landmark and water source. Current BLM management maintains open public access to the thermal resource.
The 625-meter walk requires desert hiking gear and navigation skills; bring GPS or map to locate the spring. The 151-degree temperature demands extreme caution; test carefully before any contact. Winter snow at 6,140 feet can be significant; visit late spring through fall for best access. Slide Creek Campground sits 8.4 kilometers away with free first-come sites and wilderness trailhead access.
Is Hot Creek Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Observing powerful hot springs
- Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
- Casual soaking
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Slide Creek Campground is located at the trailhead for Slide Creek which accesses the Jarbidge Wilderness(hiking, horse trips, hunting, backpacking), has one single restroom, horse corrals (no horses allowed in the campground), 6 sites, no water, and is free. Not reservable.Located at the springs that feed Slide Creek, and the trailhead for the Slide Creek trail. Aspen and subalpine fir trees provide shade and shelter at the campsites.Appropriate for small trailers, good for tent camping.