Get ready to go on a magical adventure to Washburn Hot Springs, a hidden oasis nestled in Nevada’s Black Rock Desert! This place is so therapeutic, you’ll feel like you’ve been reborn as a unicorn after just one soak. Imagine yourself driving through the barren landscape, wondering if you’ve taken a wrong turn into a post-apocalyptic movie set. But fear not, intrepid traveler! Just when you think all hope is lost, you’ll stumble upon the geothermal pools of Washburn Hot Springs, shimmering like a mirage in the desert heat.
Despite it’s remote location (seriously, even GPS is like, “you’re on your own, buddy”), this cherished spot attracts visitors from far and wide seeking relaxation and restoration in it’s healing mineral waters. Some say the waters are so rejuvenating, you’ll emerge looking ten years younger and feeling like you could wrestle a bear (disclaimer: please don’t actually attempt to wrestle a bear).
The hot springs have been popular for over a hundred years, with various lodges and bathhouses servicing guests over time. Today, visitors can enjoy three main pools varying in temperature, including:
- A small but steaming 110°F hot pool
- A larger 105°F soothing pool
- A milder 98°F pool perfect for children
In addition to the main pools, there are a few smaller pools scattered around, allowing visitors to test out different temperatures. The various salts, minerals and algae present in these geothermal waters are believed to impart therapeutic benefits.
The appeal of the Washburn Hot Springs also stems from the beautiful and peaceful desert scenery surrounding it. From the pools, you can take in views of majestic mountain peaks dotted with green trees. The lack of cell phone service and WiFi helps you disconnect from everyday stresses and be present.
As one of the most accessible yet untamed hot spring destinations in the west, Washburn Hot Springs promises unmatched relaxation and restoration for body and soul. Keep reading for everything you need to know for your visit.
Getting to Washburn Hot Springs
Alright, listen up hot spring enthusiasts! If you want to get your soak on at Washburn Hot Springs, you’ll most likely be flying into Reno. But don’t worry, the adventure is just beginning! Once you land, it’s time to rent a car and channel your inner Mad Max as you drive northwest for about 160 miles. The journey takes around 3 hours, but hey, that’s just enough time to perfect your car karaoke skills and belt out some classic road trip tunes.
Now, here’s where the real fun begins. The last 28 miles of your journey will be on a graded gravel road. It’s like the universe is testing your dedication to reaching hot spring nirvana. While most 2WD vehicles can handle the road (except after major storms when it turns into a scene from a monster truck rally), we recommend opting for a truck or SUV. Trust us, your back will thank you later.
Directions from Reno:
- Head northwest from Reno Airport on I-80 W
- Take exit 188 for Fernley and head west on NV-427 for 26 miles
- Turn right to continue on NV-427 for 5.5 miles
- Turn left onto Jungo Rd/NV-49 and continue for nearly 40 miles
- In Gerlach, turn right onto County Road 34
- After 28 miles, you will reach Black Rock Hot Springs Road indicating you’ve arrived
Be sure to fuel up in Gerlach or Fernley before the drive, as there are no gas stations out by the hot springs. Have the Washburn Hot Springs map handy too, as cell service and GPS may become unavailable.
While remote, the hot springs can also be accessed year-round by intrepid travelers in 2WD vehicles willing to take it slow on the bumpy dirt roads. Just be cautious of weather conditions in winter.
Best Time to Visit Washburn Hot Springs
Due to it’s desert climate, Washburn Hot Springs enjoys pleasant weather for most of the year. However, the most popular seasons are spring and fall when daytime highs average a comfortable 65-85°F.
In the summer, temperatures frequently exceed 100°F, which can make hiking and being outside quite grueling. But taking a dip in the naturally heated pools is ideal. Winter brings colder yet bearable 35-55°F temps, though snow or mud may impact road access after heavy storms. No matter when you decide to visit, aim for weekdays if possible for the most relaxing experience, as weekends tend to be busy during temperate months.
The region’s biggest event, Burning Man, causes crowds for a couple weeks in late August/early September. As the counter-culture festival takes place nearby on the playa, Washburn Hot Springs makes for a perfect stopover. Just know you may be sharing the pools with extra “burners” before and after the event.
Where to Stay Nearby Washburn Hot Springs
As one of Nevada’s cherished yet less-traveled destinations, Washburn Hot Springs offers basic yet comfortable lodging options to retreat to after soaking for the day:
The Historic Stevenson Ranch House
This historic ranch house built in 1910 features a charming inn and cottage rentals just one mile south of the hot springs. Guests appreciate it’s family hospitality and cozy vibe. Options range from private rooms to a full three-bedroom cottage rental. Rates start around $90 per night for double rooms with shared bathrooms. Private cabins are closer to $140 per night. Rates typically include a full hot breakfast.
Black Rock Dessert Lodge
If you’re looking for updated and well-appointed lodging, check out rooms, cabins and RV sites at the Black Rock Dessert Lodge. This motel-style lodge is on the way to Washburn Hot Springs, around 23 miles north of Gerlach.
In addition to clean and comfortable lodging options, onsite amenities include an outdoor pool, fitness room, basketball court, laundry services and a cafe/bar.
Rates range from $105-$250 per night depending on room size and occupancy needs. Discounted weekly rates are available.
Empire Hot Springs Resort (Closest Amenities)
While nearly 50 miles southwest of Washburn, the charming Empire Hot Springs Resort offers the closest full-service amenities like a restaurant and spa services. Accommodation options feature their signature geothermal mineral water, from glamping tents to deluxe king suites with hot baths.
As the area’s only full-service resort, rates range from $185 to over $400 per night. Mineral bath passes must be purchased separately if not staying onsite. But the resort offers a comfortable basecamp for exploring the region’s hot springs.
Independent Camping
Free primitive camping is permitted on BLM land anywhere surrounding the area’s hot springs. This allows RVs and trailers to park anywhere at least one mile from developed hot springs.
While free, risks fromextreme weather swings and lack of facilities should be considered. Come prepared with your own sanitation/water and gear to level/anchor your rig. Cell service is unlikely.
What to Bring to Washburn Hot Springs
As a largely undeveloped natural area, Washburn Hot springs provides basic facilities. We recommend packing the following items make your desert hot spring experience safe and enjoyable:
Essentials:
- Photo ID/cash for entry fee
- Water & snacks/cooler
- Sun protection (hat, shades, sunscreen)
- Sweatshirt/long pants (for evenings)
- Flashlight (no night lighting)
- Insect repellent
- Towel/flip flops
- Personal hygiene/shower items (limited onsite showers available)
- First aid kit
- Garbage bags (pack out trash/waste)
Optional Gear:
- Inflatable pillow
- Folding chairs
- Portable speaker (no power onsite)
- Camping supplies if staying overnight
- Fishing rod & license to fish the nearby river
While the hot springs maintain strict “no alcohol” rules due to risks like dehydration, drinking unfortunately still occurs discreetly at night. Enjoy responsibly and hydrate between alcoholic drinks to be safe.
Leave pets at home, as only service animals are allowed due to wildlife concerns. Note there is no cell service onsite or for many miles around. Let someone know your trip timeline in case an emergency arises well out of range.
Washburn Hot Springs Pools & Facilities
Washburn Hot Springs maintains three main soaking pools:
- The Small Hot Pool: This petite square pool offers the hottest temps around 110°F fed directly from geothermal source waters. It’s shallow depth is perfectly shoulder height for adults. Due to extremely limited space, it operates on 20 minute time limits when busy.
- The Large Warm Pool: The most popular large pool averages 105°F with a deeper and shallower side. Natural rock formations segment bathing spaces that can comfortably accommodate dozens of visitors throughout it’s 400 square feet.
- The Mild Pool: Considered the “family pool”, this shallow pool offers milder yet still therapeutic 98°F waters perfect for children.
In addition to the main pools, explorers can discover a handful of smaller hidden pools scattered about at various temperatures if seeking more adventure and intimacy away from crowds.
Convenient facilities are onsite to change and rinse off, including pit toilets and solar showers. Note showers operate on timers that shut off every few minutes to conserve water, so lather up quickly!
Basic snacks, drinks and hot springs-branded souvenirs are also sold onsite if you forgot an item. But we recommend packing your own food, water, shade structures if possible. Note that no pets, glass containers or alcohol are allowed in the facilities.
While most days see moderate crowds, be prepared to wait your turn for pools during busy weekends or events. Note there are no lifeguards on duty either, so visit at your own risk.
Hot Springs Soaking Etiquette & Safety Tips
To ensure safety and shared enjoyment at Washburn Hot Springs, please follow these simple hot spring soaking etiquette guidelines:
- Time limits – Honor the 20 minute time limit for the smallest hot pool during busy times. Other pools are first come, first served.
- Rinse off – Always shower before entering to wash away dirt, lotions or oils that pollute water purity.
- Hair up – Contain long hair in a bun or braid to be considerate.
- Noise – Keep loud talking and music to a minimum for a peaceful ambiance.
- Space – Don’t crowd other visitors in tighter quarters.
- Attention – Watch children closely given uneven surfaces, lack of barriers or lifeguards.
- Drinking – Stay hydrated and avoid overheating or dehydration from alcohol.
- Safety – Carefully follow signage regarding danger areas.
- Pack out all trash – Help preserve the integrity of this delicate desert ecosystem.
- Bury waste if camping off-site without provided facilities.
Let your body adjust slowly when first entering the hot water to avoid shock. Seek cooler pools or take breaks if feeling faint or dizzy at any point. Listen to your body and don’t push personal limits.
Most importantly, relax and enjoy your chance restore mind, body and spirit at this remarkable desert refuge!
Top Nearby Activities & Attractions
While lounging poolside could occupy your entire Washburn visit, take advantage of these top things to do nearby when up for adventure:
| Hike Steamboat Hot Springs | Just a 15-20 minute walk south of Washburn lies Steamboat Hot Springs (aka Black Rock Hot Springs). This ultra-remote set of pools built up around a superheated geyser discharges 136°F water requiring dangerous care. Enjoy soaks upriver once cooled. |
| Visit Empire Ghost Town | Learn the history of Northern Nevada’s early 20th century mercury mining industry at this well-preserved ghost town. Wander the abandoned mine office and mill before grabbing a bite at Tucker’s Restaurant back in Empire. |
| Explore Gerlach Ghost Towns | Check out several preserved relics of old mining settlements like Brunoa and Larkin Oasis along the dusty roads around present day tiny Gerlach. Interpretive signs tell tales of gritty Wild West settlers seeking fortunes. |
| See Fly Geyser | Fly Geyser’s vibrant mineral terraces result stunning accidental geothermal drilling mishaps in 1916 that mix with thermophilic algae. The small mound spews constantly changing water levels over vivid lime green, yellow and red rock. |
| Photograph Petroglyphs at Double Hot Springs | Double Hot is aptly named for it’s dual set of blazing hot pools. But walk downstream to discover ancient rock art etchings along the canyon walls left by indigenous peoples like the Northern Paiute. |
| Camp Overnight Under the Stars | Pitch a tent or roll out a sleeping bag anywhere for free on BLM lands. Wake to spectacular desert sunrises without another soul in sight for miles over the breathtaking barren landscape. |
| Fish the Black Rock Desert’s Waterways | Grab your rod and reel to fish for bass and trout varietals inhabiting the streams winding through the region’s hills and canyons. Pick up fishing licenses and info on seasons/limits at Gerlach or Empire general stores. |
Dining Options Near Washburn Hot Springs
Dining choices around Washburn Hot Springs are limited, with most visitors packing their own food and grilling or picnicking onsite. However, these area establishments offer a warm meal and cold drink when desired:
Bruno’s Country Club – Gerlach
This local favorite offers diner-style comfort fare since 1945 like burgers, steaks, bbq ribs along with pool tables and a video poker lounge. The Country Club serves hearty breakfasts and dinners with a bar open late. Expect casual surroundings filled with local character.
Empire Cafe – Empire
Empire Cafe provides homestyle cooking in a 1950s-style diner. Sit at their old-fashioned counter for classic breakfast plates, sandwiches and country fried steak while taking in mining town history. Save room for their renowned mile-high lemon meringue pie!
Crosby’s Lodge Restaurant- Reno/Sparks
On your way to or from the hot springs along I-80, make a pitstop at this local institution since 1959. Browse an extensive menu of American cuisine featuring steaks, ribs, pasta, salads, sandwiches and desserts. Kids love their unlimited root beer floats!
Hunter Creek Trailhead Cafe – Reno
Located 20 minutes from Reno airport, this brand new cafe at Hunter Creek Trailhead Park provides grab-n-go snacks from quality coffee to crepes, acai bowls, sandwiches on fresh baked breads plus homemade pastries. Sit at their outdoor firepits surrounded by mountain trails.
Annual Events Near Washburn Hot Springs
In addition to it’s year-round geothermal wonders in the Black Rock Desert highlands, Washburn Hot Springs’ location also provides prime access to these annual events and festivals:
| Burning Man Festival- Black Rock Desert | The most famous counter-culture arts celebration in the world builds a temporary metropolis in late August for 70,000+ attendees focused on radical self expression and creativity. Stop by hot springs before/after for ultimate decompression. |
| Reno River Festival – Reno | Reno celebrates the scenic Truckee River flowing through town each May with this huge free festival featuring vibrant live music, craft brews, food trucks, races, river floats and more. |
| Great Eldorado BBQ, Brews & Blues Festival – Reno | Fire up your tastebuds each June as award winning pitmasters serve up mouthwatering bbq alongside nearly 100 craft beers and live blues bands at Reno’s biggest barbecue block party. |
| Hot August Nights – Reno | For one week every August, classic cars rule the streets of Reno during the world’s largest annual classic car show attracting over 700,000 fans. Cruise down Virginia Street to check out the endless stream of hot rods and muscle cars. |
| Gerlach Burning Man Exodus Party | This tiny town of 200 residents balloons to over 20,000 people during Burning Man exodus weekend, celebrates with a huge street party. Live music, vendors, contests, food and drinks officially close out another year in the Black Rock Desert since 2011. |
| Run-A-Mucca Motorcycle Rally- Winnemucca | Rev your engines with three days of two and four wheeling, poker runs, drag races, ride-in shows, contests, food, camping and entertainment throughout Winnemucca each Memorial Day weekend during Nevada’s largest motorcycle rally. |
Local Hot Springs Comparison
While Washburn Hot Springs makes for a fabulous getaway, adventurous soakers may also want to visit these other reknowned Nevada hot pot destinations:
Black Rock Hot Springs
Just down the hill lies Steamboat Hot Springs, which channels 136°F source waters into pools along a hillside creek best mixed with cool river water for safe soaking unlike dangerous supershot spots.
Fly Geyser
While not technically a “hot spring”, this visually stunning 12 foot mound covered vivid mineral terraces, algae and thermophilic grasses spews constantly changing geothermal waters créated by 20th century well drilling mishaps.
Spencer Hot Springs
Two hours south of Reno, beautiful blue pools dot the Carson River with milder 108°F temperatures below huge hot waterfall perfect for mixing waters alongside riverfront tent camping sites.
Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe Hot Springs
Attention, adventurers! If you’re up for a challenge, the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribal Lands north of Reno are hiding a treasure trove of over a dozen hot springs that’ll make you work for your relaxation. Picture yourself channeling your inner Indiana Jones as you navigate to the epic cliffside cave-enclosed 104°F hot spring. Just don’t forget your fedora and whip! And if you’re looking for a more social soak, head on over to the popular Guy Wilson Hot Springs, where you might just bump into a friendly local who’ll regale you with tales of the area’s history while you both enjoy a steamy dip. Who knows, you might even make a new best friend who’ll join you on your future hot spring escapades!
But remember, these spots are hard-to-access for a reason. So, put on your best hiking boots, pack plenty of water and get ready to earn your soak. Trust us, the breathtaking views and the feeling of accomplishment will make it all worth it in the end!
Grover Hot Springs State Park
Tucked away in the stunning Sierra Nevada mountains, this family-friendly hotspot boasts expertly managed public pools, camping, hiking and winter sports access. Plus, you can enjoy nature programs that’ll make you feel like a regular Bear Grylls, all just a short 40-minute drive from Lake Tahoe.
Imagine soaking in a steamy pool after a day of skiing, watching the sunset over the mountains as you sip on a well-deserved hot cocoa. Or perhaps you’d prefer a summer hike followed by a refreshing dip in the cool waters, where you might just spot a cheeky chipmunk or two trying to join in on the fun.
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