Gambles Hole
Gambles Hole reaches 104 degrees Fahrenheit on Bureau of Land Management property in northern Elko County, maintaining water 56.3 degrees above the 47.7-degree annual air temperature. At 5,218 feet elevation, the spring emerges 36.4 meters from the nearest road under BLM Wells Field Office management, with open public access on land subject to extractive use.
The spring sits at 5,218 feet in the high country of northeastern Nevada, where annual precipitation reaches 15.5 inches with nearly 50 inches of snow during typical winters. The surrounding BLM land consists of sagebrush steppe transitioning to scattered juniper at this elevation, with distant mountain ranges defining the horizon. The landscape shows minimal development, characteristic of Wells Field Office holdings in this remote section of Elko County near the Idaho border.
Documentation on the name Gambles Hole remains scarce, though it likely references the same individual or family associated with nearby Gamble Spring. The BLM acquired this land through federal retention during homestead-era transfers, and the spring has remained in public ownership under multiple-use management since the mid-20th century. Current status maintains open access for recreation and traditional ranching activities.
Plan visits for late spring through early fall when snow melts and road conditions improve. The roadside access permits standard vehicles, though verify road status with BLM Wells Field Office before departure. Bostetter Campground lies 31.6 kilometers away with 10 sites along Cottonwood Creek. Elevation exceeds 5,200 feet, so afternoon thunderstorms develop frequently in summer months.
Is Gambles Hole worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Bostetter Campground is composed of 10 individual units and 1 group unit. It is located in a stand of Lodgepole pine and stretches along Cottonwood Creek with one site tucked up above in some Aspen trees. The campground is pack it in and pack it out. The area is suitable for trailer and tent camping. Anglers can take advantage of a nearby stream. Campground amenities toilets.