South Mosquito Creek Ranch Springs

Nye County, Nevada · Near Tonopah
38.8230°N, 116.7170°W · 6,836 ft
95°F 6,836 ft Open Short Walk Bureau of Land Management

South Mosquito Creek Ranch Springs discharge at 95 degrees on BLM land in Nye County, Nevada, at 6,836 feet elevation. Recent USGS analysis measured 35°C with dilute water chemistry showing just 187 mg/L total dissolved solids. The springs sit 317 meters from the nearest road, requiring a short walk to reach this Tonopah Field Office property.

Location

The springs emerge at high elevation in central Nevada's mountainous terrain near Tonopah. At nearly 7,000 feet, the site experiences cooler temperatures than lower desert basins, with average annual air temperature of 48.4 degrees, 9.8 inches of precipitation, and 40.3 inches of snow. The elevation supports scattered pinyon-juniper woodland and mountain shrub communities. The Mosquito Creek drainage provides the naming reference for this ranch location.

The 317-meter walk crosses moderate terrain at high elevation. Winter snow can be significant with over 40 inches annually. Spring through fall provides the most accessible conditions. The high elevation means cooler air temperatures even in summer. Water temperature of 95 degrees may be suitable for bathing if pools exist. BLM land allows public access without permits for day use.

History of South Mosquito Creek Ranch Springs

The South Mosquito Creek Ranch Springs name references the ranch property and drainage where these thermal features occur. The springs appear in the 1980 NOAA inventory as part of Nye County's extensive geothermal resources. The ranch designation suggests historical ranching operations in this area.

Monthly Climate
28°
Jan
29°
Feb
36°
Mar
44°
Apr
53°
May
67°
Jun
73°
Jul
72°
Aug
63°
Sep
51°
Oct
38°
Nov
27°
Dec
Annual Precip: 9.8 in Annual Snow: 40.3 in
Best Time to Visit
December Air 27°F · Water 95°F · +68° contrast
January Air 28°F · Water 95°F · +67° contrast
February Air 29°F · Water 95°F · +66° contrast
December offers 46°F more contrast than July
Current Conditions
52°F
Clear N 49.7 mph 40% Good soaking weather
Thursday 73° Low 41° Sunny
Spring is +22° warmer
Friday 75° Low 44° Sunny
Spring is +20° warmer
Saturday 76° Low 45° Sunny
Spring is +19° warmer
Sunday 81° Low 47° Sunny
Spring is +14° warmer
Monday 83° Low 50° Sunny
Spring is +12° warmer
Water Chemistry Sampled 1967-05-07

The water at South Mosquito Creek Ranch Springs is slightly alkaline (pH 7.5) with 187 mg/L total dissolved solids.

pH 7.5 Slightly Alkaline
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
Higher mineral concentration for therapeutic soaking
Calcium 6 mg/L
May support bone density and joint health
Magnesium 0 mg/L
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Sodium 49 mg/L
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Sulfate 20 mg/L
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Chloride 8 mg/L
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
Where to Stay

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Mile-High Advisory 6,836 ft

South Mosquito Creek Ranch Springs sits at 6,836 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 27% stronger than at sea level, so bring sunscreen and drink more water than you normally would.

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Temperature
95°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 95°F (35°C)
Avg Air Temp 48°F
Above Ambient +47°F
Good soaking conditions May
Access
Open
Road Access Short Walk
Distance to Road 0.2 mi
Land
Ownership Federal
Agency Bureau of Land Management
Designation PUB
Unit Tonopah Field Office
Manager Bureau of Land Management
Protection 3 - Protected, subject to extractive use

Hike 1 waterfall near South Mosquito Creek Ranch Springs

Looking for more outdoor adventures? Explore waterfall hikes near South Mosquito Creek Ranch Springs, Nevada.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at South Mosquito Creek Ranch Springs?
South Mosquito Creek Ranch Springs has a water temperature of 95°F (35°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is South Mosquito Creek Ranch Springs located?
South Mosquito Creek Ranch Springs is located in Nye County, Nevada at 6,836 feet elevation, near Tonopah. Coordinates: 38.8230°N, 116.7170°W.
How do I get to South Mosquito Creek Ranch Springs?
South Mosquito Creek Ranch Springs has Short Walk road access (0.2 mi from the road).
Is South Mosquito Creek Ranch Springs free to visit?
South Mosquito Creek Ranch Springs has Open access. It is managed by Bureau of Land Management.
What minerals are in the water at South Mosquito Creek Ranch Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 7.5 (slightly alkaline). Total dissolved solids measure 187 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at South Mosquito Creek Ranch Springs?
South Mosquito Creek Ranch Springs is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is South Mosquito Creek Ranch Springs crowded?
South Mosquito Creek Ranch Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to South Mosquito Creek Ranch Springs?
Essentials for South Mosquito Creek Ranch Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.
Sources: USGS NWIS