Huffaker Springs

Washoe County County, Nevada · Near Sparks
39.4570°N, 119.7220°W · 4,440 ft
81°F 4,440 ft Roadside Camping nearby (13.7 mi)
Huffaker Springs
File:Coyote (3208392217).jpg — cc by-sa 2.0

Huffaker Springs emerges at 81 degrees Fahrenheit within Reno-Sparks suburban development, located just 2.5 meters from Rio Wrangler Parkway at 4,440 feet elevation. The moderately warm water flows in one of Nevada's most urbanized settings where residential and commercial growth has transformed former rangeland into metropolitan infrastructure.

The spring sits in Washoe County's Truckee Meadows, where urban expansion has created a developed landscape of homes, streets, and commercial buildings. Elevation of 4,440 feet places the feature in the valley floor between the Sierra Nevada to the west and the Virginia Range to the east. Annual precipitation totals 16.3 inches with 43.3 inches of snow, and average air temperatures reach 54.4 degrees Fahrenheit in this rapidly growing metropolitan area.

History of Huffaker Springs

The Huffaker name likely references early ranching families in Washoe Valley before modern development. As Reno and Sparks expanded eastward through the late 20th century, the spring became surrounded by suburban construction. The thermal feature persists as a remnant of the natural hydrology that once characterized these meadows before urbanization.

This spring exists within private developed property and may not be accessible to the public. Mount Rose Campground sits 22 kilometers west with access to Sierra hiking trails. For thermal bathing, visit developed hot springs facilities elsewhere in the Reno area. The urban setting makes this more of geological curiosity than recreational destination.

Is Huffaker Springs worth visiting?

Best for

  • Warm-water soaking
  • Easy day trips
  • Overnight camping trips
Huffaker Springs is well suited for warm-water soaking and easy day trips.
Monthly Climate
35°
Jan
37°
Feb
42°
Mar
50°
Apr
59°
May
70°
Jun
78°
Jul
77°
Aug
69°
Sep
57°
Oct
44°
Nov
34°
Dec
Annual Precip: 16.3 in Annual Snow: 43.3 in
Best Time to Visit
December Air 34°F · Water 81°F · +47° contrast
January Air 35°F · Water 81°F · +46° contrast
February Air 37°F · Water 81°F · +44° contrast
December offers 44°F more contrast than July
Nearby Camping
Mount Rose (Nv) 13.7 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
References
USGS Quad: (STEAMBOAT 7.5) · PP 492: 55.0 · NOAA: 9.0 · AMS Map: RENO
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Huffaker Springs?
Huffaker Springs has a water temperature of 81°F (27°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Huffaker Springs located?
Huffaker Springs is located in Washoe County, Nevada at 4,440 feet elevation, near Sparks. Coordinates: 39.4570°N, 119.7220°W.
How do I get to Huffaker Springs?
Huffaker Springs has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being Rio Wrangler Parkway (8 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Huffaker Springs?
Yes, Mount Rose (Nv) is located nearby (13.7 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Huffaker Springs?
Huffaker Springs is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Huffaker Springs crowded?
Huffaker 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 Huffaker Springs?
Essentials for Huffaker Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.
Temperature
81°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 81°F (27°C)
Avg Air Temp 54°F
Above Ambient +27°F
Good soaking conditions March
Access
Road Access Roadside
Nearest Road Rio Wrangler Parkway
Distance to Road 8 ft