Outdoors NearbySpencer Hot Springs
A spring in the Big Smoky Valley southeast of Austin that feeds a few cattle-trough tubs and a natural pool. It is a short drive off US 50 with wide views of the Toiyabe Range. Spencer Hot Springs costs nothing to visit.
| Access | Free, public land Free soaking on BLM land in metal stock tanks and one soft-bottom pool fed by a pipe from the source. You can move the pipe in or out to change the temperature. |
|---|---|
| Type | Primitive soaking tub, 3 pools |
| Location | Austin, NV Managed by BLM Directions |
| Water | source about 130 °F; tubs in the low 100s |
| Hours | Open 24 hours |
| Season | year-round |
| Reservations | not needed |
| Camping | Dispersed primitive camping on BLM land (stay at least 100 yards from the water) |
| Website | travelnevada.com |
| Phone | (775) 964-2200 |
Best time to soak: Spencer Hot Springs
Soaking feels best when the air is cool. From November to April average highs around Austin stay at 41 to 56 °F, with nights down to 25 °F. From December to February lows average 25 to 26 °F, so paths and decks around the pools can ice over and dirt roads may close.
| Month | High | Low | Rain days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 42 °F | 26 °F | 3 |
| Feb | 44 °F | 26 °F | 3 |
| Mar | 50 °F | 31 °F | 3 |
| Apr | 56 °F | 34 °F | 4 |
| May | 65 °F | 43 °F | 5 |
| Jun | 76 °F | 51 °F | 2 |
| Jul | 86 °F | 59 °F | 1 |
| Aug | 84 °F | 58 °F | 1 |
| Sep | 75 °F | 50 °F | 2 |
| Oct | 62 °F | 40 °F | 1 |
| Nov | 49 °F | 31 °F | 3 |
| Dec | 41 °F | 25 °F | 3 |
Pack for the hot springs
- 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
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Illustration SIMARI quick-dry water shoes for women and men Grip on slick rock and gravel pool bottoms, and they dry fast on the walk out. View on Amazon - Cold-day pick SUN CUBE hooded changing robe poncho Change in and out of a wet suit at a trailhead with no changing room, and stay warm after a winter soak. 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.
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.
Something changed? Tell us.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Spencer Hot Springs cost?
Yes. Spencer Hot Springs is on public land with no soaking fee.
How hot is Spencer Hot Springs?
Source about 130 °F; tubs in the low 100s.
When is Spencer Hot Springs open?
Open 24 hours. year-round.
Can you camp near Spencer Hot Springs?
Dispersed primitive camping on BLM land (stay at least 100 yards from the water).