Quick FactsOverview
About Bowers Mansion Hot Springs
Bowers Mansion Hot Springs, Nevada is a geothermal spring at Bowers Mansion Regional Park in Washoe County, located on the eastern slope of the Sierra Nevada mountains approximately 20 miles south of Reno between Reno and Carson City. A natural hot spring on the property has been part of the estate since its founding in the 1860s and currently provides heated showers and hot water for the park facilities. The park features a Z-shaped 44-meter outdoor swimming pool with a lap lane, diving board, and ADA-compliant ramp, alongside a splash pad, two children playgrounds, and expansive picnic areas. Reno is the nearest major city.
The historic Bowers Mansion was built in 1863 by Lemuel "Sandy" Bowers and Eilley Orrum Bowers, who struck it rich during the Comstock Lode silver rush. The Georgian and Italianate mansion is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Twelve women saved the mansion from demolition in the early 20th century and helped create the county park. Guided tours of the mansion are offered during summer months. Hiking trails lead to the Bowers family cemetery.
The pool historically was heated by the geothermal spring. The spring water now provides heated showers and hot water rather than directly filling the swimming pool.
Location & Access
Getting to Bowers Mansion Hot Springs
Bowers Mansion Regional Park is located at 4005 Old US-395 in Washoe Valley (New Washoe City), approximately 20 miles south of Reno and 10 miles north of Carson City. The drive from Reno takes approximately 25 minutes via Old US-395, a scenic route along the eastern Sierra Nevada foothills through Washoe Valley with views of Washoe Lake. Free parking is available at the park.
From Reno, take US-395 south toward Carson City, then exit onto Old US-395 (Bowers Mansion Road) through Washoe Valley. The park entrance is clearly signed on the right. From Carson City, drive north on US-395 and exit onto Old US-395. The park is approximately a 15-minute drive from downtown Carson City.
Regional Context
Washoe Valley sits between the Sierra Nevada and the Virginia Range, with Washoe Lake State Park nearby. For visitors seeking hot springs near Reno, Bowers Mansion is one of the closest geothermal sites. Carson Hot Springs (120-degree source, private soaking tubs and outdoor pool) in Carson City is approximately 20 minutes south. Steamboat Hot Springs (historic geothermal area on the south edge of Reno) offers another nearby option. The Virginia City historic mining district is also within a 30-minute drive.
Suitability & Accessibility
Who Should Visit Bowers Mansion Hot Springs
Bowers Mansion Regional Park suits families and groups seeking a full-day outdoor experience combining swimming, history, and picnicking in a scenic Sierra Nevada valley setting. The 44-meter pool is large enough for lap swimming, recreational swimming, and children play. The splash pad provides water fun for younger visitors. The ADA-compliant pool ramp ensures accessibility. Private pool parties can be scheduled on Fridays and Saturdays.
The historic mansion tours add cultural depth to a pool visit, and the hiking trails and picnic areas with tall shade trees make this a well-rounded park for extended stays. The pool is open seasonally from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, daily during school summer break and weekends before and after. Lifeguards are on duty during pool hours.
Accessibility at Bowers Mansion
The pool has an ADA-compliant ramp for accessible entry. The park grounds are generally flat and accessible. Contact Washoe County Parks for details. Those seeking hot springs Nevada offers near Reno with direct mineral water soaking should visit Carson Hot Springs in Carson City, which offers private indoor soaking tubs fed by 120-degree geothermal water in private indoor tubs with a more traditional hot springs soaking experience.
Safety & Etiquette
Bowers Mansion Hot Springs Safety Tips
Bowers Mansion Pool is a managed public facility with lifeguards on duty during operating hours, making it generally safe for all visitors. Standard pool safety rules apply: supervise children at all times, no running on the pool deck, and no diving except from the diving board. Proper swim attire is required. No regular diapers are allowed in the pool. Specialized swim diapers worn with a bathing suit are permitted.
No smoking or vaping is allowed anywhere at Bowers Mansion Regional Park. No glass containers are permitted in the pool area. The pool is open from 11:30am to 5:30pm during operating season. Check the Washoe County Parks website or call 775-849-0644 for current hours before visiting, as the schedule varies by week.
Climate and Travel Notes
Washoe Valley sits at approximately 5,000 feet elevation with warm summers and cold winters. Summer daytime temperatures typically reach the mid-80s to mid-90s Fahrenheit, making the pool a welcome relief. The pool is unheated or minimally heated, so water temperature varies with weather. Afternoons can be windy in Washoe Valley. Bring sunscreen and a windbreaker.
Park Amenities
Beyond the pool, the park offers group picnic pavilions (reservable), individual picnic sites, restrooms, and access to the mansion museum. The park is a popular venue for family reunions, birthday parties, and community events throughout the summer season. Washoe Lake State Park is a short drive south for additional recreation including sailing and windsurfing.
