Soak in Black Rock Hot Springs

Located along the Applegate Trail, Black Rock Hot Spring was the first watering hole for emigrants as they crossed the vast playa of the Black Rock Desert. 

Getting there today is no easy task, particularly after it rains when the playa is totally impassable. The only "road" on official maps (whether Google or USGS topos) is an unmaintained dirt/mud trail that leads directly south from the north off of Soldier Meadow & County Road 217 past Double Hot Springs eventually ending at the clearly marked Black Rock Hot Springs.

The most direct way is across the playa towards the northwest arm where eventually a dirt road will appear. The are numerous access roads to the playa from either Jungo Road along Jungo Road / County Road 49 along the southeastern edge or from County Road 34 and Soldier Meadow Road.

The spring itself is comprised of two connected pools, with the main source of heat being from the smaller of the pools to the east. Do not enter the smaller pool. Only enter the main pool via the large, sturdy dock that leads into the center.

There are several camping sites near the hot spring (in Nevada you must always camp at least 300 ft away from a water source) and the nearby hike to the top of Black Rock Point is absolutely worth it.

As always please practice the principles of Leave No Trace and leave the Conservation Area as you found it for future generations to enjoy.

Note: for new visitors to Black Rock Desert it is always a good idea to drop by the Friends of the Black Rock Desert office in Gerlach for the latest info on desert and playa conditions. The desert can be a remote & unforgiving place with no facilities. They are there to help!