Spencer Hot Springs
Spencer Hot Springs emerges at 162 degrees on BLM land in Eureka County, Nevada, where volunteer-built soaking pools allow mixing scalding source water with cold water. Recent USGS measurements confirm 100°C at the source. The springs sit 59.3 meters from the nearest road at 5,660 feet elevation, ranking among Nevada's most popular roadside soaking destinations.
The springs discharge in central Nevada's high desert at the base of the Toiyabe Range. The Mount Lewis Field Office manages this public land where geothermal activity produces dramatic surface flow. Average annual temperature reaches 51.5 degrees with 9 inches of precipitation and 32.4 inches of snow. The roadside location provides immediate access from established routes. Surrounding vegetation includes sagebrush, rabbitbrush, and scattered juniper at this mid-elevation zone.
Visit during spring through fall for best road conditions and comfortable air temperatures. Winter access can be limited by snow. Bring water containers to help cool scalding source water in the soaking pools. The site sees heavy use on weekends. Weekday visits offer more solitude. Pack out all trash as no facilities exist. Camp dispersed on surrounding BLM land.
Spencer Hot Springs appears in the 1980 NOAA inventory as a significant thermal feature. The Spencer name likely references early settlers or ranchers in the area. Visitors have constructed and maintained soaking pools over decades, creating an informal bathing facility. The springs remain on open BLM public land without formal development or protection.
The water at Spencer Hot Springs is slightly alkaline (pH 7.4) with 800 mg/L total dissolved solids.
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Spencer Hot Springs sits at 5,660 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 23% stronger than at sea level, so bring sunscreen and drink more water than you normally would.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Spencer Hot Springs is road-accessible, so you can bring more gear. The water is dangerously hot — bring water shoes and test pools carefully.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Springs Near Spencer Hot Springs
More Springs Around 162°F
Slightly Alkaline Springs (pH ~7.4)
Hike 1 waterfall near Spencer Hot Springs
Looking for more outdoor adventures? Explore waterfall hikes near Spencer Hot Springs, Nevada.