Outdoors NearbyVirgin Valley Warm Spring
A warm pond beside the main campground of Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge in far northwest Nevada, an area known for opal mining. The water is warm rather than hot, which makes it a summer swim more than a winter soak. Virgin Valley Warm Spring is on public land and free to visit.
| Access | Free, public land A warm spring-fed pool at the free first-come Virgin Valley Campground in Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge, with a rustic shower house. |
|---|---|
| Type | Developed pools, 1 pool |
| Location | Denio, NV Managed by USFWS Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge Directions |
| Water | around 90 °F |
| Season | year-round |
| Reservations | not needed |
| Facilities | pit toilets, drinking water, showers |
| Camping | Virgin Valley Campground (first-come, first-served, 14-day limit in 30 days) (0 mi) |
| Website | fws.gov |
| Phone | (775) 941-0199 |
Best time to soak: Virgin Valley Warm Spring
Most people soak in the cooler months. From November to March average highs near Denio stay at 42 to 58 °F, with nights down to 22 °F. Freezing nights from November to March mean icy steps and possible road closures; traction for your shoes helps. From July to August highs reach 93 to 94 °F. Many people skip midday soaks in summer and come back after sunset.
| Month | High | Low | Rain days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 44 °F | 22 °F | 3 |
| Feb | 49 °F | 24 °F | 3 |
| Mar | 58 °F | 29 °F | 3 |
| Apr | 64 °F | 32 °F | 4 |
| May | 74 °F | 39 °F | 4 |
| Jun | 84 °F | 46 °F | 3 |
| Jul | 94 °F | 54 °F | 1 |
| Aug | 93 °F | 52 °F | 1 |
| Sep | 83 °F | 43 °F | 1 |
| Oct | 69 °F | 34 °F | 2 |
| Nov | 53 °F | 26 °F | 3 |
| Dec | 42 °F | 22 °F | 4 |
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.
Hot springs in the area
- Soldier Meadows Hot Springs Free
- Alvord Hot Springs Day pass
- Black Rock Hot Springs Free
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 Virgin Valley Warm Spring cost?
Yes. Virgin Valley Warm Spring is on public land with no soaking fee.
How hot is Virgin Valley Warm Spring?
Around 90 °F.
When is Virgin Valley Warm Spring open?
year-round.
Can you camp near Virgin Valley Warm Spring?
Virgin Valley Campground (first-come, first-served, 14-day limit in 30 days) (0 mi).