Spencer Hot Spring

## Overview Spencer Hot Spring is a beloved free-access natural hot spring located in the remote high desert of Lander County, Nevada, along the eastern edge of the Big Smoky Valley. Situated at approximately 39.33°N, 116.86°W, this geothermal oasis sits at roughly 5,700 feet elevation, surrounded by wide-open sagebrush flats with sweeping views of the Toiyabe Range to the west and the Monitor Range to the east. Spencer Hot Spring is one of the most well-known and frequently visited natural hot springs in Nevada. The site is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and has been a popular soaking destination for decades, drawing road-trippers, overlanders, and hot spring enthusiasts from across the country. The geothermal activity in this area is part of the Basin and Range Province, a vast region of tectonic extension where the Earth's crust is being stretched thin, allowing heated groundwater to rise to the surface along fault lines. The spring feeds several soaking pools of varying temperatures. The main attraction is a metal stock trough that has been repurposed as a soaking tub, fed by a pipe carrying hot water from the source. There is also a natural, rock-lined pool closer to the source that tends to run hotter. Water temperatures at the source have been reported to reach upwards of 150°F (65°C), while the soaking pools typically range from around 100°F to 110°F (38°C–43°C) depending on flow and weather conditions. The mineral-rich water has a slight sulfur smell characteristic of geothermal springs in the region. ## Directions 1. From Austin, Nevada, head south on US Route 50 East / State Route 376 South. After approximately 22 miles, turn left (east) onto a signed dirt road for Spencer Hot Springs. 2. Alternatively, from Tonopah, head north on State Route 376. The signed turnoff for Spencer Hot Spring will be on your right (east) side of the highway, roughly 55 miles north of Tonopah. 3. From the highway turnoff, follow the well-worn dirt road east for approximately 5 to 6 miles. The road is generally passable for standard vehicles in dry conditions, though high-clearance is recommended, especially after rain. 4. You will see the soaking area on the left side of the road, marked by the metal trough and a few informal camping spots. GPS coordinates: 39.3268, -116.8598. *Note: Cell service is extremely limited in this area. Download offline maps before heading out.* ## What to Expect Spencer Hot Spring offers a rustic, undeveloped soaking experience in a stunning desert setting. The main soaking tub is a large metal trough that comfortably fits two to four people. Hot water flows in through a pipe, and you can regulate the temperature by adjusting how much water enters or by adding cooler water from a nearby hose or bucket. The natural rock-lined pool near the source runs significantly hotter and may be too hot for comfortable soaking without mixing in cooler water. The area around the spring is flat, open desert with a few informal dispersed camping spots — many visitors choose to camp overnight and soak under the stars, which are spectacular in this dark-sky region. There are no facilities, no restrooms, and no trash service, so pack out everything you bring in. A fire ring may be present, but always check current BLM fire restrictions before building a campfire. The springs are accessible year-round, though winter visits can be particularly magical — soaking in steaming hot water while surrounded by snow-dusted desert. Summer days can be extremely hot, making early morning or evening soaks more comfortable. The road may become impassable during heavy rain or snowmelt, so check conditions in advance if visiting during wet seasons. Visitors should be aware that the source water is extremely hot and can cause serious burns. Always test the water temperature before entering any pool. The site is clothing-optional by common practice, and it's courteous to respect other visitors' preferences. As with all natural hot springs, the mineral content and microbial conditions of the water can vary, so soaking is at your own risk.