151°F6,140 ftOpenShort WalkBureau of Land ManagementCamping nearby (5.2 mi)
Very Hot Source — Use Extreme Caution
At 151°F, the source water at Hot Creek Springs is hot enough to cause burns. Some hot springs this hot have cooler side pools or downstream areas suitable for soaking — always test the water temperature before entering.
Hot Creek Springs flows at 151 degrees Fahrenheit on BLM land in Elko County at 6,140 feet elevation, requiring a 625-meter walk from the nearest road to reach the thermal discharge.
The spring emerges in high-elevation terrain managed by the Wells Field Office at over 6,000 feet, where sagebrush steppe transitions to montane vegetation. The area receives 12.1 inches of annual precipitation and 45.5 inches of snow, creating cooler and wetter conditions than lower-elevation Nevada springs. The setting provides views across northern Nevada basin-and-range topography, with the thermal waters creating visible alteration zones.
History of Hot Creek Springs
The creek name indicates the hot spring feeds or influences a drainage system, with thermal waters contributing to the local hydrology. The remote location limited historical development, though ranchers and prospectors likely used the spring as a landmark and water source. Current BLM management maintains open public access to the thermal resource.
The 625-meter walk requires desert hiking gear and navigation skills; bring GPS or map to locate the spring. The 151-degree temperature demands extreme caution; test carefully before any contact. Winter snow at 6,140 feet can be significant; visit late spring through fall for best access. Slide Creek Campground sits 8.4 kilometers away with free first-come sites and wilderness trailhead access.
Is Hot Creek Springs worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Hot Creek Springs is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and overnight camping trips.
Monthly Climate
22°Jan
24°Feb
32°Mar
40°Apr
50°May
62°Jun
73°Jul
71°Aug
61°Sep
46°Oct
33°Nov
22°Dec
Annual Precip: 12.1 inAnnual Snow: 45.5 in
Best Time to Visit
JanuaryAir 22°F · Water 151°F · +129° contrast
DecemberAir 22°F · Water 151°F · +129° contrast
FebruaryAir 24°F · Water 151°F · +127° contrast
January offers 51°F more contrast than July
Nearby Camping
Slide Creek Campground5.2 mi away
Slide Creek Campground is located at the trailhead for Slide Creek which accesses the Jarbidge Wilderness(hiking, horse trips, hunting, backpacking), has one single restroom, horse corrals (no horses allowed in the campground), 6 sites, no water, and is free. Not reservable.Located at the springs that feed Slide Creek, and the trailhead for the Slide Creek trail. Aspen and subalpine fir trees provide shade and shelter at the campsites.Appropriate for small trailers, good for tent camping.
USGS Quad: HOT CREEK 15 · PP 492: 30.0 · NOAA: 4.0 · AMS Map: WELLS
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Hot Creek Springs?
Hot Creek Springs has a water temperature of 151°F (66°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Hot Creek Springs located?
Hot Creek Springs is located in Elko County, Nevada at 6,140 feet elevation, near Wells. Coordinates: 41.5760°N, 115.1810°W.
How do I get to Hot Creek Springs?
Hot Creek Springs has Short Walk road access (0.4 mi from the road).
Is Hot Creek Springs free to visit?
Hot Creek Springs has Open access. It is managed by Bureau of Land Management.
Can I camp near Hot Creek Springs?
Yes, Slide Creek Campground is located nearby (5.2 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Hot Creek Springs?
The water at Hot Creek Springs reaches 151°F, which can cause severe burns. Do not enter the source pool directly — look for cooled side pools or downstream areas where the water has cooled to a safe temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Hot Creek Springs crowded?
Hot Creek Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Hot Creek Springs?
Essentials for Hot Creek 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.
Temperature
151°F
WarmHotBoiling
Water Temp151°F (66°C)
Avg Air Temp45°F
Above Ambient+106°F
Perfect soaking weatherMarch
Access
Open
Road AccessShort Walk
Distance to Road0.4 mi
Land
OwnershipFederal
AgencyBureau of Land Management
DesignationPUB
UnitWells Field Office
ManagerBureau of Land Management
Protection3 - Protected, subject to extractive use