Lower Shellbourne Spring
This 77°F spring flows at 7,000 feet elevation on BLM land, producing water nearly 30 degrees warmer than the average annual air temperature at this high-altitude location. Managed by the Bristlecone Field Office, the spring sits roadside just 57 feet from access, making it immediately reachable in Nevada's Schell Creek Range.
The spring emerges on the western slope of the Schell Creek Range in White Pine County, where pinyon pine, juniper, and mountain mahogany dominate the vegetation at this elevation. Annual precipitation reaches 10.5 inches with nearly 39 inches of snow. The Schell Creek Range rises to over 11,000 feet, creating a forested island in the surrounding Great Basin desert. East Creek Campground lies 33 kilometers distant.
Visit June through October when snow melts; winter access becomes difficult as roads may close under heavy snowpack. The high elevation means cool nights even in summer, dropping to 40°F. Combine with hiking in the Schell Creek Range or visit nearby East Creek Campground for multi-day trips. Four-wheel drive recommended for mountain roads after spring runoff or summer storms.
The Shellbourne name likely derives from early ranching families who ran cattle in these mountains, though specific documentation remains limited. The 'Lower' designation suggests an upper spring exists nearby at higher elevation. BLM has managed these lands since 1946 when the agency consolidated various federal grazing and mineral holdings.
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Overview Located high on the slopes of the Schell Creek Range in the Duck Creek Basin, sitting in the middle of an alder, pinyon and juniper forest, East Creek Campground offers a wide range of recreation opportunities to the forest visitor. Hiking, mountain biking and off-road vehicle riding are just some of the popular activities enjoyed by visitors to the area. Elevation is 7,400 feet, located approximately 20 miles from Ely, Nevada. Recreation The Ranger Trail can be accessed from thi...
Lower Shellbourne Spring sits at 7,000 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 28% stronger than at sea level, so bring sunscreen and drink more water than you normally would.
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Lower Shellbourne Spring is road-accessible, so you can bring more gear.
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