Bishop Creek Hot Springs

## Overview Bishop Creek Hot Springs is a free, natural hot spring located in the remote high desert of northeastern Nevada, near the Utah border. Situated at approximately 41.25°N, 114.94°W, this geothermal spring sits in the sparsely populated landscape characteristic of Elko County, where volcanic geology and deep fault lines bring heated water to the surface. The area is part of the Basin and Range Province, a region known for its extensive geothermal activity, and Bishop Creek Hot Springs is one of many thermal features scattered across this rugged terrain. The spring takes its name from nearby Bishop Creek, a small waterway that winds through the arid valleys of this corner of Nevada. Hot springs in this region have historically been used by ranchers, travelers, and indigenous peoples for bathing and warmth, particularly during the cold high-desert winters. Water temperatures at geothermal springs in this part of Nevada can vary significantly, so visitors should test the water carefully before entering. ## Directions 1. The spring is located in a remote area of northeastern Nevada, south of the town of Montello and near the Nevada-Utah state line. 2. From Interstate 80, take the Montello/Oasis exit and head north on State Route 233 toward Montello. 3. From Montello, travel south and east on local dirt and gravel roads toward the Bishop Creek drainage area. The GPS coordinates (41.2505, -114.9374) should be used with a reliable GPS device or offline mapping app, as cell service in this area is extremely limited. 4. A high-clearance vehicle is strongly recommended, as access roads in this region are unpaved, can be rutted, and may become impassable when wet. *Note: These directions are approximate and based on the GPS coordinates provided. Visitors are encouraged to consult detailed topographic maps or BLM land maps before making the trip.* ## What to Expect Bishop Creek Hot Springs is a backcountry geothermal site in one of the most isolated corners of Nevada. Expect a truly off-the-grid experience — there are no facilities, signage, or developed amenities at this location. The surrounding landscape is open sagebrush steppe with wide views of the desert basin and distant mountain ranges. As a free, undeveloped hot spring, conditions can change with the seasons. Water flow and temperature may fluctuate depending on recent weather and seasonal groundwater levels. The pool area may be natural or minimally improved by previous visitors. Always check the water temperature before soaking, as geothermal sources can be scalding at the point of emergence. Because of its remote location, visitors should come fully prepared with plenty of water, fuel, food, and emergency supplies. There is little to no cell phone reception in the area. The nearest services are in Montello or along Interstate 80, both a significant drive away. The best seasons to visit are late spring through early fall, when access roads are most likely to be dry and passable. Winter travel to this area can be hazardous due to snow, ice, and mud on unpaved roads. This is public land managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), so standard Leave No Trace principles apply — pack out all trash and respect the natural environment.