Trego Hot Springs, Nevada

Important note before you plan a soak

Trego Hot Springs is a small, easy-to-reach desert spring near the Black Rock Desert, but it comes with a serious caveat. In 2020, the Bureau of Land Management advised the public not to enter the water at Trego due to harmful bacteria. That advisory changes the whole decision: treat this as a stop to observe, not automatically a place to soak.

What it is

The site is known for shallow soaking features that people have shaped over time, with hot water running through a narrow channel and pooling in small spots. Because it is close to a major route and has minimal barriers, it sees a lot of traffic, which can amplify cleanliness and water quality issues.

Why it matters

When a land manager issues a no-contact recommendation, the safest plan is to assume soaking is off the table until you have verified an updated, cleared status from an official source.

Where it is

Trego Hot Springs is in the Black Rock Desert region of northwestern Nevada, near the community of Trego and within reach of Gerlach. Access is typically by dirt road with a short walk to the spring area.

Road conditions

In dry weather, most vehicles can usually reach the general area, but desert roads can develop washboard, soft sand, and deep ruts. After rain, the playa and surrounding routes can become impassable and vehicles can sink fast.

What to bring

Bring plenty of drinking water, sun protection, and a trash bag. If you are visiting as part of a longer Black Rock Desert drive, carry a spare tire, tools, and enough supplies to be delayed. Do not rely on cell service.

Check advisories first

Because of the BLM bacteria warning, confirm the current status through official updates before you consider contact with the water.

Who this suits

Given the BLM no-contact recommendation, this is not a good choice for soaking. It may still interest desert travelers who want to see geothermal activity or scout the area as part of a larger Black Rock itinerary.

Families

This is not family friendly when there is an active or recent health advisory. Kids are more likely to splash, touch faces, and ignore no-contact guidance. Choose a managed facility or a spring without a warning instead.

Mobility and access

Wheelchair access is not realistic. The surface is uneven desert ground with no built path, and the spring features are informal and low to the ground.

Expectations vs reality

It is easy to assume a roadside spring equals easy soaking. Here, the key reality is water quality uncertainty. That should drive your decision more than convenience.

Health and water quality

The central issue at Trego is the BLM recommendation not to enter the water due to harmful bacteria reported in 2020. If an advisory is in place or you cannot confirm it has been lifted, do not soak, do not wade, and keep pets out as well.

Desert hazards

Heat, dehydration, and sudden weather changes are standard Black Rock risks. Wind can be severe, and dust storms reduce visibility. The playa can look dry and still turn to glue with a small amount of precipitation.

Etiquette and impact

Do not dig channels, build dams, or modify the spring. It increases stagnation and can worsen water quality. Pack out everything, including food scraps, and keep vehicles on durable surfaces. If you stop to look, keep the area quiet and leave it as you found it.

Practical safety

Travel with a full tank, a spare, and a plan. Tell someone your route, and do not assume you can flag down help quickly.

Is it safe to soak here?

The Bureau of Land Management issued a recommendation in 2020 not to enter the water due to harmful bacteria. Check for updated official guidance before any contact.

How do I check current conditions?

Look for the most recent land manager notices and local advisories for the Black Rock Desert region before you go, especially after periods of heavy use or warm weather.

Is the road always passable?

No. Desert roads and playa surfaces can become impassable after rain. If there is any precipitation in the forecast, do not assume you can drive out.

Can I camp nearby?

Rules vary by area and season. If you camp, use existing disturbed sites, keep fires legal and contained, and pack out all trash and waste.