Spencer Hot Springs, Nevada

What it is

Spencer is a classic Nevada cowboy-tub setup on public land outside Austin. Several tubs are fed by hot spring water piped in, and the practical trick here is that you can often adjust the soak by moving the inlet flow, which helps when the source runs too hot.

The feel

This is open desert, not a developed pool. You will likely share the area with campers, road-trippers, and people rolling in after dark to soak under a big sky. The tubs are simple, and conditions change with use and weather.

Facilities

Do not expect services. Plan like you are dispersed camping, bring your own water, a trash bag, and a way to handle bathroom needs responsibly. Cell service is unreliable, and wind can make even warm days feel sharp.

Where it is

Spencer Hot Springs sits in Big Smoky Valley outside Austin, Nevada. The last stretch is on dirt, and the approach can be dusty when dry and slick when wet.

Driving and parking

Most visitors reach Spencer by driving from Austin and then following well-used county and dirt roads onto public land. After storms, the same roads can turn into gumbo mud. If the forecast calls for rain or snow, take the conservative option and skip it, towing fees in this part of Nevada are brutal.

What to bring

Bring drinking water, a headlamp if you might soak after sunset, and footwear you can get wet and muddy. A small mat or towel for changing helps when the ground is cold or messy. Pack out trash even if it is not yours, it adds up fast at popular tubs.

Seasonality

Shoulder seasons tend to be the sweet spot. Winter can be possible but road conditions swing quickly, and summer afternoons can be too hot for comfort with little shade.

Who this suits

This one works for a wide range of visitors who are comfortable with rustic conditions, including families who can keep kids close and away from very hot inlet water. It is also a solid pick for campers who want an easy soak after a day on US-50.

Families

Kids can do fine here if you manage the water temperature and keep them supervised near the inlet. Plan on short soaks, warm layers for getting out, and a quick change into dry clothes, wind chill is real in the valley.

Mobility and access

Wheelchair access is not realistic. The ground is uneven desert, tubs sit at rough heights, and there is no paved path or ramp. If you need stable footing, consider a developed hot springs pool in a town setting instead.

Expectations vs reality

Expect simple tubs, variable cleanliness, and changing water temps. If you arrive and it looks busy or messy, the best move is often to leave and come back at a quieter time.

Hot water management

Spencer’s biggest risk is the source water being too hot at the inlet. Do not step straight into a tub without checking temperature with your hand or foot first, and keep kids away from the incoming pipe. Adjust slowly, sudden changes can scald.

Remote basics

There is little shade and limited help nearby. Bring more water than you think you need, and keep an eye on weather and road conditions, especially after rain. If you are camping, secure food and pack out waste. Do not wash with soap in the tubs, and avoid lotions or oils before soaking.

Sharing the space

These tubs are small and social norms matter. Keep music off, make room when others arrive, and leave the tub cleaner than you found it. A swimsuit keeps things simple and reduces conflict when the area is busy.

Leave-no-trace without the lecture

Pick up micro-trash, close any gates you pass, and avoid tearing up wet roads. The fastest way to get access restricted is to treat the place like a party site.

Is there an entrance fee?

Spencer is on public land and is typically free to access, but conditions and management can change. Plan to be self-sufficient.

Are there bathrooms or water?

Do not count on either. Bring all drinking water, and handle bathroom needs responsibly by packing out waste when required and never leaving toilet paper behind.

Can I control the temperature?

Often, yes. Many visitors adjust the tub by shifting the inlet flow. Do it gradually and keep hands and feet clear of very hot water.

What is the best time of day?

Morning and late afternoon are usually calmer. Night soaks can be excellent, but only if you have a reliable vehicle, warm layers, and good lights for the return.