Hot Springs

Churchill County County, Nevada · Near Fallon
39.3080°N, 117.5520°W · 6,100 ft
115°F 6,100 ft Open Short Walk Bureau of Land Management

This 115°F spring flows on BLM land at 6,100 feet elevation in the Churchill County mountains east of Fallon. Water emerges 64.9 degrees above ambient temperature, accessible via 140.6-meter walk from the nearest road on Mount Lewis Field Office public land open to extractive uses.

Located at 39.308°N, -117.552°W in the same mountain system as nearby hotter springs, this thermal feature occupies high desert terrain with 11.3 inches annual precipitation, 43.6 inches of snow, and mean annual air temperature of 50.1°F. The elevation and exposed position create harsh winter conditions with persistent snowpack. Vegetation consists of sagebrush and scattered pinyon-juniper adapted to cold, dry conditions. The spring sits on BLM public land protected under status 3, permitting mineral and energy development.

History of Hot Springs

The generic "Hot Springs" name provides no historical record. BLM designation suggests the spring avoided homestead claims, possibly due to remote mountain location and limited flow unsuitable for ranching operations. The spring remains undeveloped on federal land managed for multiple uses including recreation and extractive activities.

The 140.6-meter walk from road crosses uneven terrain; wear hiking boots. Visit May through October when mountain roads remain passable. At 6,100 feet, expect cold nights even in summer. The 115°F temperature permits bathing if pools exist, but verify conditions before planning a soak. Combine with exploration of nearby hotter springs in the same geothermal system.

Is Hot Springs worth visiting?

Best for

  • Hot spring soaking
Hot Springs is well suited for hot spring soaking.
Monthly Climate
29°
Jan
31°
Feb
38°
Mar
46°
Apr
54°
May
68°
Jun
76°
Jul
75°
Aug
66°
Sep
52°
Oct
39°
Nov
28°
Dec
Annual Precip: 11.3 in Annual Snow: 43.6 in
Best Time to Visit
December Air 28°F · Water 115°F · +87° contrast
January Air 29°F · Water 115°F · +86° contrast
February Air 31°F · Water 115°F · +84° contrast
December offers 48°F more contrast than July
What to Bring
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Trash bag Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes Hot ground near source
References
USGS Quad: CARROLL SUMMIT SE 7.5 · Circ 790: 159.0 · NOAA: 5.0 · AMS Map: MILLETT
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Hot Springs?
Hot Springs has a water temperature of 115°F (46°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Hot Springs located?
Hot Springs is located in Churchill County, Nevada at 6,100 feet elevation, near Fallon. Coordinates: 39.3080°N, 117.5520°W.
How do I get to Hot Springs?
Hot Springs has Short Walk road access (461 ft from the road).
Is Hot Springs free to visit?
Hot Springs has Open access. It is managed by Bureau of Land Management.
Is it safe to soak at Hot Springs?
At 115°F, Hot Springs 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 Hot Springs crowded?
Hot Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Hot Springs?
Essentials for Hot Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, 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
115°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 115°F (46°C)
Avg Air Temp 50°F
Above Ambient +65°F
Perfect soaking weather March
Access
Open
Road Access Short Walk
Distance to Road 461 ft
Land
Ownership Federal
Agency Bureau of Land Management
Designation PUB
Unit Mount Lewis Field Office
Manager Bureau of Land Management
Protection 3 - Protected, subject to extractive use