187°F4,100 ftOpenRoadsideBureau of Land Management
Very Hot Source — Use Extreme Caution
At 187°F, the source water at Patua Hot Springs (Fernley) 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:ISS031-E-126881 - View of Earth.jpg — public domain
Patua Hot Springs near Fernley flows at 187°F on Bureau of Land Management public land at 4,100 feet elevation, ranking among Nevada's hottest thermal features. The spring emerges 130 degrees above the 57°F average annual air temperature, indicating rapid ascent of deeply circulated geothermal water. Recent USGS analysis documented water at 194°F with total dissolved solids of 2,170 milligrams per liter, sodium at 640 milligrams per liter, chloride at 720, and sulfate at 400, reflecting high-temperature fluid circulation through volcanic rock.
The spring emerges at 4,100 feet elevation in the desert terrain east of Fernley, managed by the BLM's Sierra Front Field Office in Lyon County. The spring sits just 45 feet from the nearest road in open sagebrush country that receives 6.9 inches of annual precipitation and minimal snowfall of 11 inches. The thermal feature lies in the Fernley geothermal area, where fault structures provide conduits for superheated water rising from depth. Mineral deposits around the spring openings testify to the long-term discharge of chemically evolved geothermal fluid.
History of Patua Hot Springs (Fernley)
The spring's name may derive from the Patua Indian Reservation established in the 19th century, though specific historical documentation remains limited. The area's geothermal resources attracted attention during Nevada's energy exploration boom of the 1970s and 1980s. The high-temperature discharge and elevated mineral content suggest potential for geothermal power development, though no commercial facilities have been constructed at this site. The spring continues to flow freely from BLM-managed public land.
The spring's 187°F temperature makes it extremely dangerous for any bathing use. Visitors should observe from a safe distance and never enter water at this temperature. The roadside location on BLM land provides legal public access year-round, though site conditions may limit vehicle approach. The spring's value lies in observing active high-temperature geothermal discharge rather than recreation. Extreme caution is required around boiling water and unstable mineral deposits. Visit during daylight hours and inform others of plans when exploring remote thermal features.
Is Patua Hot Springs (Fernley) worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Easy day trips
Mineral-rich therapeutic bathing
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Patua Hot Springs (Fernley) is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and easy day trips.
Monthly Climate
36°Jan
40°Feb
47°Mar
54°Apr
62°May
74°Jun
82°Jul
80°Aug
71°Sep
57°Oct
44°Nov
34°Dec
Annual Precip: 6.9 inAnnual Snow: 10.8 in
Best Time to Visit
DecemberAir 34°F · Water 187°F · +153° contrast
JanuaryAir 36°F · Water 187°F · +151° contrast
FebruaryAir 40°F · Water 187°F · +147° contrast
December offers 48°F more contrast than July
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature
190.4°F
(88.0°C)Measured Mar 21, 1988
Water ChemistrySampled 1988-03-21
The water at Patua Hot Springs (Fernley) is neutral (pH 6.9) with 2170 mg/L total dissolved solids. It is notably rich in sodium (supports circulation and skin hydration), sulfate (traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation), and chloride (natural antiseptic with skin health benefits).
What is the water temperature at Patua Hot Springs (Fernley)?
Patua Hot Springs (Fernley) has a water temperature of 187°F (86°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Patua Hot Springs (Fernley) located?
Patua Hot Springs (Fernley) is located in Lyon County, Nevada at 4,100 feet elevation, near Fernley. Coordinates: 39.5970°N, 119.1100°W.
How do I get to Patua Hot Springs (Fernley)?
Patua Hot Springs (Fernley) has Roadside road access (148 ft from the road).
Is Patua Hot Springs (Fernley) free to visit?
Patua Hot Springs (Fernley) has Open access. It is managed by Bureau of Land Management.
What minerals are in the water at Patua Hot Springs (Fernley)?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride, Iron. The pH is 6.9 (neutral). Total dissolved solids measure 2,170 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at Patua Hot Springs (Fernley)?
The water at Patua Hot Springs (Fernley) reaches 187°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 Patua Hot Springs (Fernley) crowded?
Patua Hot Springs (Fernley) 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 Patua Hot Springs (Fernley)?
Essentials for Patua Hot Springs (Fernley): 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
187°F
WarmHotBoiling
Water Temp187°F (86°C)
Avg Air Temp57°F
Above Ambient+130°F
Great soaking conditionsMarch
Access
Open
Road AccessRoadside
Distance to Road148 ft
Land
OwnershipFederal
AgencyBureau of Land Management
DesignationPUB
UnitSierra Front Field Office
ManagerBureau of Land Management
Protection3 - Protected, subject to extractive use
