Overview
A hot springs site you visit, not one you soak in
Warm Springs Natural Area is a protected desert oasis near Moapa with thermal springs, palms and shade, and a short loop-style walk. It’s a real geothermal place, but it’s managed for habitat and education, not bathing. Think “boardwalk vibes in the desert,” not towels and flip-flops.
What you actually do here
You walk the trail system (including a 2/3-mile trail), stop at informational kiosks, and look into spring outflows and steaming spots from designated viewpoints. The springs are part of a delicate ecosystem, so staying on the path is the whole deal.
Why it’s worth the stop
If you’re driving between Las Vegas, Mesquite, and the Moapa Valley area, this is an easy detour that feels genuinely different from typical Nevada desert scenery. You get water, shade, and geothermal activity in a place where you normally expect dust and creosote.
Location & Access
Where it is
Warm Springs Natural Area is located at 4240 Warm Springs Road, Moapa, NV 89025. It’s roughly an hour drive from downtown Las Vegas, and about 35 minutes from Mesquite.
By car
Access is by paved highways, then a short local-road approach. From I-15, you exit onto NV-168, drive to Warm Springs Road, and follow it to the entrance. Parking is on-site and the visit begins right from the lot, no rugged approach required.
Seasonality and hours
This site runs on a seasonal schedule (open Tuesday through Sunday between Labor Day and Memorial Day in the published schedule). It is closed Mondays and also closed on several major holidays, so do not assume you can “squeeze it in” any day of the week.
What to bring
Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat. Wear sturdy shoes, the walking is easy but you’re still outdoors on desert paths. Leave pets at home (service animals excepted) and skip glass containers. There’s no swimming, wading, fishing, or fires, plan your day accordingly.
Suitability & Accessibility
This is best for travelers who want a low-effort geothermal stop that still feels like a real place, not a museum exhibit. It fits road trips, families who need a leg-stretch, and anyone curious about desert spring ecosystems.
Families
Yes, as long as you frame it as a walk-and-look visit. Kids do well here when you keep the pace short and treat the kiosks as optional. Stay close near any water edges and do not let children scramble off-trail.
Mobility realities
Because it’s a managed site with a parking lot, benches, and defined trails, it’s easier than most undeveloped spring areas. Still, “easy” does not automatically mean fully accessible. Expect outdoor surfaces and occasional uneven spots. If you need step-free routing, plan conservative distances and take breaks.
Expectations vs reality
If your goal is soaking, this is not that trip. The site rules specifically prohibit swimming and wading. Come for the geothermal landscape and shade, not for a bath.
Safety & Etiquette
Follow the rules because the place is fragile
No swimming or wading, no fishing, no fires, no alcohol and no smoking. Stay on established trails and do not step into spring channels, even if it looks shallow. The springs support wildlife and sensitive habitat.
Heat and sun
This is low elevation desert. Even on cooler days, sun exposure adds up fast. Start early, bring water, and use shade breaks. In warmer months, treat this like any desert walk: short loops, slow pace, and no hero miles.
Footing
Watch your step around damp areas near spring outflows. Algae and wet rock can be slick. Closed-toe shoes help, and they keep you from picking up thorns around the edges of the trail.
Photo etiquette
Photos are fine, but keep people out of tight frames unless they’re in your group. Don’t block trail pinch points while you’re reading signs or lining up a shot.
Leave-no-trace, without the speech
Use trash containers or pack it out. Don’t remove plants, rocks, or artifacts. The site is attractive because it’s intact, help keep it that way.
FAQs
Can you swim or soak at Warm Springs Natural Area?
No. The posted visitor rules prohibit swimming and wading. This is a viewing and walking site.
How long does a visit take?
Most people spend 45 to 90 minutes walking the trails, stopping at kiosks, and taking photos. You can stretch it longer if you move slowly and take breaks.
Is it easy to reach from Las Vegas?
Yes. It’s about an hour drive from downtown Las Vegas with paved access and clear directions from I-15 and NV-168.
Are pets allowed?
No, pets and other animals are not allowed (service animals excepted). Plan on leaving dogs at home or arranging care.
What should I pack?
Water, sun protection, and sturdy shoes. This is not a soaking stop, so you do not need towels or swim gear for use on-site.
