Boy Scout Hot Spring

## Overview Boy Scout Hot Spring is a natural geothermal hot spring located along the Colorado River corridor in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area, near the Arizona-Nevada border. Situated at approximately 35.96°N, 114.73°W, this free-access hot spring sits in the rugged desert landscape downstream of Hoover Dam, in an area renowned for its concentration of geothermal activity. The hot springs along this stretch of the Colorado River — including Boy Scout Hot Spring — owe their existence to deep geological faulting that allows superheated groundwater to rise to the surface. The region's volcanic history and the complex fault systems associated with the Basin and Range geological province create ideal conditions for geothermal features. The name "Boy Scout" is believed to derive from its historical use by Boy Scout troops who explored and camped in the Black Canyon area over the decades. This hot spring is one of several geothermal soaking spots found in the Black Canyon area south of Hoover Dam, a region that also includes well-known springs such as Arizona Hot Spring (Ringbolt) and Gold Strike Hot Spring. Boy Scout Hot Spring tends to be less frequented than its more famous neighbors, offering a quieter and more secluded soaking experience for those willing to make the trek. ## Directions 1. Boy Scout Hot Spring is located in the Black Canyon water corridor of the Colorado River, south of Hoover Dam, near the Nevada-Arizona border. 2. Access is most commonly achieved by kayak or canoe, launching from the Hoover Dam put-in area on the Nevada side and paddling downstream along the Colorado River. 3. Watch the eastern (Arizona) shoreline carefully for the hot spring, which is located at GPS coordinates 35.9603, -114.7269. 4. The spring may also be accessible via scrambling along the rocky riverbank, but water-based access is generally considered the most practical route. 5. A GPS device or smartphone with downloaded offline maps is highly recommended, as the canyon walls can limit cell service. *Note: These directions are based on the GPS coordinates and general knowledge of the Black Canyon corridor. Visitors should confirm current access conditions with the National Park Service (Lake Mead NRA) before heading out, as water levels and trail conditions can change seasonally.* ## What to Expect Boy Scout Hot Spring offers a remote, desert hot spring experience along the scenic Colorado River. The surrounding landscape is dramatic — sheer canyon walls of dark volcanic rock rise above the turquoise-green river, and the arid Mojave Desert stretches in every direction. The geothermal water emerges warm to hot from the rock, and visitors have historically used natural pools near the river's edge for soaking. Water temperatures can vary depending on the season and how much mixing occurs with the cooler Colorado River water. Because of its location within the Black Canyon corridor, reaching Boy Scout Hot Spring typically requires a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard trip along the river. The paddle from the Hoover Dam launch point passes through stunning canyon scenery and several other points of geothermal interest. Be prepared for a full day on the water if combining multiple hot spring stops. Summer temperatures in this region regularly exceed 110°F (43°C), so spring and fall are generally the most comfortable seasons to visit. Bring plenty of water, sun protection, and appropriate footwear for navigating rocky terrain near the spring. The area falls within the Lake Mead National Recreation Area, so standard NPS regulations apply — pack out all trash and practice Leave No Trace principles. As with all natural hot springs, water conditions can change. The geothermal water has not been officially tested for public safety, so visitors should exercise their own judgment regarding soaking and contact with the water.