File:2015-10-28 13 48 06 "Welcome to California" sign along northwestbound State Route 28, crossing from Crystal Bay, Nevada to Kings Beach, California.jpg — cc by-sa 4.0
Brockway Hot Springs surges at 131°F directly into Lake Tahoe's frigid waters at 6,337 feet elevation near Kings Beach. Located just 34 feet from Speedboat Avenue, this roadside-accessible spring produces water 83°F warmer than the area's annual average, creating warm-water zones along an otherwise cold shoreline.
The spring emerges directly onto Lake Tahoe's rocky eastern shore, where thermal water mingles visibly with the alpine lake's famous crystal-clear depths. The surrounding Sierra Nevada landscape presents granite peaks and dense conifer forests typical of the lake's high-elevation setting. In winter, ice and snow frame the steaming water—a dramatic seasonal contrast that attracts photographers and visitors seeking the intersection of thermal and alpine environments.
History of Brockway Hot Springs
Brockway Hot Springs exemplifies the Sierra Nevada's geothermal character, where deep crustal heat rises along fault zones intersecting the lake basin. The spring's direct discharge into Tahoe represents an unusual configuration where thermal and glacial-melt water interact at the surface, creating microhabitats that support specialized aquatic life.
Year-round roadside access makes this one of California's most convenient thermal springs. Winter visits offer the most dramatic visual spectacle as thermal steam rises conspicuously against snow-covered mountains. Summer attracts visitors combining spring exploration with lake recreation, though expect crowds near the popular shoreline area.
Is Brockway Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Brockway Hot Springs offers an accessible hot spring experience — great for a day trip.
Annual Precip: 29.5 in
Annual Snow: 151.0 in
February
Air 34°F · Water 131°F · +97° contrast
December
Air 34°F · Water 131°F · +97° contrast
January
Air 35°F · Water 131°F · +96° contrast
February offers 33°F more contrast than August
Overview
Located close to Lake Tahoe, Truckee, and Reno, Martis has a beautiful, peaceful campground off the beaten path. Martis Creek area features hiking, biking, canoeing, kayaking, and catch and release trout fishing.
Recreation
Fishing, kayaking, canoeing, walking, bicycling, picnicing. And of course camping.
Facilities
Vault toilets, potable water available at campground entrance, ampitheater.
Natural Features
Mountains, alpine valley, pine trees, lake, wild animals.
Nearby Attractio...
Fee
Payment will be made through Recreation.gov
Reservable
Yes
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Alpine Meadow Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
0 miles from Kings Beach, CA
USGS Quad: (KINGS BEACH 7.5) · PP 492: 44.0 · NOAA: 5.0 · AMS Map: CHICO
What is the water temperature at Brockway Hot Springs?
Brockway Hot Springs has a water temperature of 131°F (55°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Brockway Hot Springs located?
Brockway Hot Springs is located in Placer County, California at 6,337 feet elevation, near Kings Beach. Coordinates: 39.2260°N, 120.0100°W.
How do I get to Brockway Hot Springs?
Brockway Hot Springs has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being Speedboat Avenue (110 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Brockway Hot Springs?
Yes, Alpine Meadow Campground is located nearby (8.9 miles away). Payment will be made through Recreation.gov.
Is it safe to soak at Brockway Hot Springs?
At 131°F, Brockway Hot Springs is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Brockway Hot Springs crowded?
Brockway Hot Springs is accessible from a paved road, making it easy to reach. Weekends and holidays may be busier — consider visiting on a weekday for a quieter experience.
What should I bring to Brockway Hot Springs?
Essentials for Brockway Hot Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in. The water is over 110°F — test the temperature before entering and watch for scalding near the source.