At 144°F, the source water at Nevada (Hinds) Hot 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.
File:M 3811905 se 11 060 20190814.tif — public domain
Nevada Hot Springs, also known as Hinds Hot Springs, erupts at 144 degrees Fahrenheit in Lyon County at 4,632 feet elevation near Smith, flowing 90 degrees above the 54-degree average air temperature. Located just 93 feet from the nearest road, the spring offers roadside access to intensely hot waters. Recent USGS measurements recorded 142-degree water with strongly alkaline pH of 8.7 and low-calcium sodium-sulfate chemistry.
The spring occupies the western edge of Mason Valley where the Wassuk Range rises toward the Sierra Nevada crest. At 4,632 feet elevation, the landscape transitions from valley floor sagebrush to pinyon-juniper woodland on surrounding slopes. The Walker River flows through Mason Valley several miles north, draining from the Sierra Nevada eastward into Nevada. Annual precipitation totals 12.5 inches with 29 inches of snow, creating a semi-arid climate influenced by Sierra moisture patterns. The California border lies just 15 miles west.
History of Nevada (Hinds) Hot Springs
Nevada Hot Springs appears in early surveys and maps of the region, with "Hinds" likely referencing a landowner or settler family who controlled the property during Euro-American settlement. The Walker River Paiute and Washoe peoples utilized thermal springs throughout the area for thousands of years before ranchers and miners arrived in the mid-to-late 1800s. The spring continues flowing at the same high temperature recorded in historical measurements, indicating stable geothermal conditions. Current status shows undeveloped thermal discharge on private or public land.
Visit spring through fall when weather is favorable; winter can bring snow at 4,600+ feet elevation. Extreme water temperature of 144 degrees prevents bathing without extensive cooling; approach with caution. Roadside access eliminates hiking though permission may be required depending on land status. Smith offers minimal services; Yerington lies 20 miles north. Combine with camping at Indian Creek Campground 37 km southwest in California, currently closed due to 2021 Tamarack Fire damage but planned for rebuilding.
Is Nevada (Hinds) Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Easy day trips
Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Nevada (Hinds) Hot Springs is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and easy day trips.
Monthly Climate
36°Jan
37°Feb
43°Mar
51°Apr
58°May
70°Jun
77°Jul
76°Aug
68°Sep
56°Oct
43°Nov
35°Dec
Annual Precip: 12.5 inAnnual Snow: 28.9 in
Best Time to Visit
DecemberAir 35°F · Water 144°F · +110° contrast
JanuaryAir 36°F · Water 144°F · +108° contrast
FebruaryAir 37°F · Water 144°F · +107° contrast
December offers 43°F more contrast than July
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature
141.8°F
(61.0°C)Measured Jan 01, 1974
Water ChemistrySampled 1974-01-01
The water at Nevada (Hinds) Hot Springs is alkaline (pH 8.7).
Overview
Due to the extensive damage sustained in the 2021 Tamarack Fire, Indian Creek Campground is CLOSED at this time and will remain closed until the area can be made safe for public access and facilities can be rebuilt. Updated Press Release .
Indian Creek Campground is nestled in the eastern foothills of the Sierra Nevada between the California towns of Woodfords and Markleeville. Elevation in the area ranges from 5,600 feet at the reservoir to 6,400 feet in the surrounding foothills....
What is the water temperature at Nevada (Hinds) Hot Springs?
Nevada (Hinds) Hot Springs has a water temperature of 144°F (62°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Nevada (Hinds) Hot Springs located?
Nevada (Hinds) Hot Springs is located in Lyon County, Nevada at 4,632 feet elevation, near Smith. Coordinates: 38.8990°N, 119.4100°W.
How do I get to Nevada (Hinds) Hot Springs?
Nevada (Hinds) Hot Springs has Roadside road access (306 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Nevada (Hinds) Hot Springs?
Yes, Indian Creek Campground (Ca) is located nearby (22.7 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Nevada (Hinds) Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride, Iron. The pH is 8.7 (alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Nevada (Hinds) Hot Springs?
The water at Nevada (Hinds) Hot Springs reaches 144°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. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Nevada (Hinds) Hot Springs crowded?
Nevada (Hinds) Hot 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 Nevada (Hinds) Hot Springs?
Essentials for Nevada (Hinds) Hot 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.