Pigeon Spring, NV 89013

## Overview Pigeon Spring is a remote desert spring located in Esmeralda County, Nevada, situated in the arid landscape between the small communities of Oasis, California, and Lida, Nevada. At an approximate elevation consistent with the high desert terrain of western Nevada, this spring emerges in a sparsely populated stretch of the Silver Peak Range region — an area known for its wide-open basin-and-range geography, historic mining activity, and stark natural beauty. Esmeralda County is one of the least populated counties in the United States, and springs like Pigeon Spring have historically served as vital water sources for travelers, prospectors, and wildlife moving through this dry corridor. The name "Pigeon Spring" likely references the band-tailed pigeons or other dove species that congregate at reliable water sources in the Great Basin desert. ## Directions 1. From the junction of US-95 and NV-266 (near Coaldale, Nevada), head west on **Highway 266** toward the California border. 2. The spring is located along or near Highway 266, between the community of **Oasis, California** to the west and **Lida, Nevada** to the east. 3. Use the GPS coordinates **37.4171533, -117.66592** to pinpoint the spring's location, as signage in this remote area may be minimal or absent. 4. The nearest postal community is **Silverpeak, NV 89047**, though the spring itself is situated well outside any town center. *Note: Cell service is extremely limited in this part of Esmeralda County. Download offline maps before making the trip.* ## What to Expect Pigeon Spring sits in classic Great Basin high desert — expect open sagebrush flats, distant mountain views, and very little shade. The area is remote and lightly visited, so plan accordingly with fuel, water, and supplies. The nearest services are sparse and far between. As a listed public drinking spring, Pigeon Spring has historically been used as a water source by those passing through this corridor. However, water conditions in desert springs can vary significantly with season and rainfall, and flow may diminish or cease during prolonged dry periods. Visitors should not rely on this spring as their sole water source without verifying current conditions. The surrounding landscape offers excellent opportunities for solitude, stargazing (Esmeralda County has some of the darkest skies in the lower 48), and exploring the remnants of Nevada's mining heritage. Wildlife sightings — including pronghorn, raptors, and various desert birds drawn to the water — are possible, especially at dawn and dusk.