Bowers Mansion Hot Spring

Washoe County County, Nevada · Near Incline Village
39.2860°N, 119.8400°W
133°F Open Roadside CNTY Camping nearby (3.5 mi)
Bowers Mansion Hot Spring
File:Bowers Mansion, Nevada (7425820610).jpg — cc by-sa 2.0

Bowers Mansion Hot Spring emerges at 133°F within Bowers Mansion Regional Park at 5,280 feet elevation, flowing just 25 feet from the nearest road on county-managed parkland between Reno and Carson City. Recent USGS analysis documented remarkably alkaline water with pH 9.5, sodium content of 50 mg/L, and minimal calcium and magnesium concentrations.

The spring occupies foothill terrain in the Carson Range, where Jeffrey pine forests meet mountain shrublands in a zone receiving 18.4 inches of precipitation and 68.9 inches of snow annually. At mid-elevation between the Washoe Valley floor and the Sierra crest, the park encompasses mixed-conifer woodland interspersed with sagebrush clearings. The historic mansion grounds provide maintained access to the thermal feature.

History of Bowers Mansion Hot Spring

The spring shares its name with the Bowers Mansion, built in 1863 by Comstock Lode millionaire Lemuel Sandy" Bowers and his wife Eilley Orrum. The mansion represents the architectural ambitions of Nevada's mining boom era. County parkland designation came decades later

preserving both the historic structure and thermal spring."

Is Bowers Mansion Hot Spring worth visiting?

Best for

  • Hot spring soaking
  • Easy day trips
  • Overnight camping trips
Bowers Mansion Hot Spring offers an accessible hot spring experience — great for a day trip.
Monthly Climate
36°
Jan
36°
Feb
40°
Mar
47°
Apr
55°
May
67°
Jun
74°
Jul
74°
Aug
67°
Sep
55°
Oct
43°
Nov
35°
Dec
Annual Precip: 18.4 in Annual Snow: 68.9 in
Best Time to Visit
December Air 35°F · Water 133°F · +98° contrast
January Air 36°F · Water 133°F · +97° contrast
February Air 36°F · Water 133°F · +97° contrast
December offers 39°F more contrast than August
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature 109.4°F (43.0°C) Measured Jan 01, 1978
Water Chemistry Sampled 1978-01-01

The water at Bowers Mansion Hot Spring is alkaline (pH 9.5).

pH 9.5 Alkaline
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
Calcium 3 mg/L
May support bone density and joint health
Magnesium 0 mg/L
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Sodium 50 mg/L
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Sulfate 23 mg/L
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Chloride 4 mg/L
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
Nearby Camping
Mount Rose (Nv) 3.5 mi away

Overview Mount Rose Campground is conveniently located between Reno and Lake Tahoe just off scenic Mount Rose Highway. Visitors love the campground for its proximity to excellent hiking trails and recreational opportunities at Lake Tahoe.Recreation Hiking is the most popular pastime at Mount Rose. Several trails, including the Tahoe Meadows, Tahoe Rim, Mount Rose Wilderness and Mount Rose Summit Trails, begin very close to the campground.Facilities Mount Rose contains single and double-family...

Reservable Yes
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
What to Bring
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear Nearby camping at Mount Rose (Nv)
Trash bag Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes Hot ground near source
References
USGS Quad: WASHOE CITY 7.5 · PP 492: 57.0 · NOAA: 15.0 · AMS Map: RENO
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Bowers Mansion Hot Spring?
Bowers Mansion Hot Spring has a water temperature of 133°F (56°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Bowers Mansion Hot Spring located?
Bowers Mansion Hot Spring is located in Washoe County, Nevada, near Incline Village. Coordinates: 39.2860°N, 119.8400°W.
How do I get to Bowers Mansion Hot Spring?
Bowers Mansion Hot Spring has Roadside road access (82 ft from the road).
Is Bowers Mansion Hot Spring free to visit?
Bowers Mansion Hot Spring has Open access. It is managed by CNTY.
Can I camp near Bowers Mansion Hot Spring?
Yes, Mount Rose (Nv) is located nearby (3.5 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Bowers Mansion Hot Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 9.5 (alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Bowers Mansion Hot Spring?
At 133°F, Bowers Mansion Hot Spring is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Bowers Mansion Hot Spring crowded?
Bowers Mansion Hot Spring 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 Bowers Mansion Hot Spring?
Essentials for Bowers Mansion Hot Spring: 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.
Temperature
133°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 133°F (56°C)
Avg Air Temp 53°F
Above Ambient +81°F
Great soaking conditions March
Access
Open
Road Access Roadside
Distance to Road 82 ft
Land
Ownership Local
Agency CNTY
Designation LP
Unit Bowers Mansion Regional Park
Manager CNTY
Protection 4 - No known protection