Outdoors NearbyBlack Rock Hot Springs
Two hot pools at the foot of Black Rock Point, a landmark on the old Applegate emigrant trail at the edge of the Black Rock Desert playa. People camp nearby and use it as a stopover rather than a soaking spot. You can soak at Black Rock Hot Springs for free.
| Access | Free, public land On public land at Black Rock Point, reached only across the playa. The small deep pool is too hot to enter and the larger shallow pool is also hot; test the water and keep children back. |
|---|---|
| Type | Natural spring, 2 pools |
| Location | Gerlach, NV Managed by BLM Black Rock Desert-High Rock Canyon Emigrant Trails NCA Directions |
| Water | 136 °F (1980 NOAA list); operator page says the pools are too hot to enter |
| Season | Only when the playa is completely dry; impassable when wet |
| Website | travelnevada.com |
| Phone | (775) 625-7848 |
Best time to soak: Black Rock Hot Springs
Hot water is most welcome on cold days. From November to March average highs near Gerlach stay at 43 to 59 °F, with nights down to 22 °F. Freezing nights from November to February mean icy steps and possible road closures; traction for your shoes helps. From July to August highs reach 93 to 95 °F. Many people skip midday soaks in summer and come back after sunset.
| Month | High | Low | Rain days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 44 °F | 24 °F | 4 |
| Feb | 50 °F | 28 °F | 3 |
| Mar | 59 °F | 33 °F | 3 |
| Apr | 66 °F | 37 °F | 2 |
| May | 75 °F | 46 °F | 2 |
| Jun | 85 °F | 54 °F | 2 |
| Jul | 95 °F | 62 °F | 1 |
| Aug | 93 °F | 59 °F | 1 |
| Sep | 84 °F | 49 °F | 1 |
| Oct | 70 °F | 38 °F | 2 |
| Nov | 54 °F | 28 °F | 2 |
| Dec | 43 °F | 22 °F | 3 |
Pack for the hot springs
- Earth Pak roll-top waterproof dry bag Keeps your phone, keys and dry clothes safe on wet rocks next to the pool. View on Amazon
- Battery-free floating water thermometer Check a pool before you get in. Natural springs can run hotter than they look. View on Amazon
- Top pick 4Monster quick-dry microfiber towel with case Packs small for the hike to the pools and dries in the car on the way home. View on Amazon
We haven't tested these ourselves; we chose them by size and specs. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Check the current price on Amazon.
Other hot springs near Gerlach
Sources
Access, prices and rules come from these official pages, checked October 2026. Hot springs close for weather, repairs or high water, so confirm before you go.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Black Rock Hot Springs free?
Yes. Black Rock Hot Springs is on public land with no soaking fee.
How hot is Black Rock Hot Springs?
136 °F (1980 NOAA list); operator page says the pools are too hot to enter.
When is Black Rock Hot Springs open?
Only when the playa is completely dry; impassable when wet.