Manse Ranch Spring
This 75°F spring flows roadside near Pahrump at 2,779 feet elevation, producing water just 7 degrees warmer than ambient air in this Mojave Desert location. Situated 40 feet from the nearest road, the spring provides easy access to a warm rather than hot thermal feature. Cathedral Rock Picnic Area campground lies 25 kilometers away.
The spring emerges in the low desert valleys west of the Spring Mountains, where creosote bush, Joshua tree, and scattered cacti dominate the vegetation. Annual precipitation totals less than 6 inches with only 2 inches of snow, creating one of Nevada's most arid environments. The Spring Mountains rise dramatically to the east, reaching over 11,000 feet and providing a striking backdrop to the desert floor.
The Manse Ranch name reflects agricultural development in the Pahrump Valley, where ranchers utilized artesian springs to support livestock and limited farming from the 1870s onward. Springs in this valley drew settlers despite scarce surface water, as underground aquifers fed by Spring Mountains snowmelt emerged at lower elevations. The ranch likely operated through the early 20th century.
Visit November through March when temperatures remain moderate between 50-70°F; May through September regularly exceeds 105°F with extreme heat warnings common. The spring lies 60 miles west of Las Vegas via Highway 160. Combine with visits to the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area or Death Valley National Park, both within an hour's drive.
Is Manse Ranch Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Overview Cathedral Rock Group Picnic Area is located at the top of beautiful Kyle Canyon in the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area, just 30 miles from Las Vegas. Visitors enjoy hiking, horseback riding and scenic driving in this forested desert oasis.Recreation No trails can be accessed through the Picnic Area at the present time. Trails may be found at the Forest Service Trailhead on the other end of Cathedral Rock Picnic Area. The new Spring Mountain Visitor Center is a 15 minute dri...