Discovering the Best Hot Springs in Northern Nevada
As those who have felt earthquakes in northern Nevada know, the Reno area is geologically active. One of the more pleasant and useful manifestations of this activity is hot water — specifically, hot water found in numerous hot springs around the region. While some springs are hot enough to foster a thriving geothermal energy industry, several others have been tapped to provide soothing soaking pools and health spas for people to enjoy.
Grover Hot Springs State Park
Address: 3415 Hot Springs Rd, Markleeville, CA 96120, USA
Phone: +1 530-694-2248
California’s Grover Hot Springs State Park is a short drive from Minden/Gardnerville, Nevada. It is located in Alpine County, California, four miles west of Markleeville. In the 1800s, this site hosted a popular resort. Today, the hot springs fill a public pool for soothing soaks. Additionally, there is a cool pool for those who enjoy a bracing plunge after the warmth. The facility includes men’s and women’s dressing rooms and restrooms. The pool area is fenced and open to the sky.
The park spans 700 acres at nearly 6,000 feet in elevation, surrounded by majestic Sierra peaks, providing breathtaking views during your soak. While summers are pleasant, winters can bring significant snow and cold temperatures.
The hot springs are operational every day from June through August. From September to May, the pools close on Wednesdays, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
Steamboat Hot Springs Healing Center and Spa
Address: 16010 S Virginia St, Reno, NV 89521-9805, USA
Phone: +1 775-853-6600
Steamboat Hot Springs Healing Center and Spa is located just south of Reno on Old U.S. Highway 395. This historic hot spring is registered as a Nevada landmark and offers hot mineral water soaking tubs alongside alternative health treatments such as aromatherapy, massages, facials, detoxifying mud wraps, light therapy, and energetic healing. Steamboat Hot Springs is easily accessible from Mount Rose Highway.
1862 David Walley’s Hot Springs Resort
Address: 2001 Foothill Rd, Genoa, NV 89411, USA
Phone: +1 775-782-8155
For those seeking a more upscale soaking experience, 1862 David Walley’s Hot Springs Resort is an excellent choice. This resort features overnight accommodations, ownership opportunities, and a variety of hot springs facilities. After a day of soaking, enjoy a meal and drink at the 1862 Restaurant & Saloon.
Day-use access grants you to a large hot springs pool and several smaller spa-like pools, all outdoors and open to the sky. The resort also offers amenities such as a steam room, sauna, restaurant, fitness room, and playground. Note that a fee applies for daily use of the hot springs, and various massages and spa services are available at an additional cost. 1862 David Walley’s is conveniently located in Carson Valley, just north of Genoa on Nevada Highway 206.
While you’re at Walley’s, consider hiking the Genoa Vista Trail, which offers scenic views of the Carson Valley and excellent bird-watching opportunities.
Carson Hot Springs Resort
Address: 1500 Old Hot Springs Rd, Carson City, NV 89706-0602, USA
Phone: +1 775-885-8844
Carson Hot Springs Resort is a historic destination that has served visitors since the 1800s. Before the arrival of white settlers, Native Americans utilized the healing waters here. Today, the resort continues to provide guests a relaxing soak in its warm mineral water pool. While there are no overnight accommodations, efficiency apartments are available for monthly rentals. The water flow is such that no city water or chemicals are needed, and the pools are drained and refilled daily. Carson Hot Springs features a large outdoor pool and several private spa rooms, easily accessible from College Parkway exit off U.S. 395.
Sierra Hot Springs Resort and Retreat Center
Address: 521 Campbell Hot Springs Rd, Sierraville, CA 96126, USA
Phone: +1 530-994-3773
Sierra Hot Springs Resort and Retreat Center near Sierraville operates as a non-profit retreat. To access the hot soaking pool and other amenities, at least one person in a group must be a member, which can be purchased by the month.
This retreat offers a peaceful, secluded setting with a large outdoor pool and a smaller, hotter “quiet” pool located in a geodesic dome. Both areas are clothing optional, with co-ed dressing rooms. The resort also hosts a hotel and the Philosophy Cafe, which provides food and drinks from Friday through Monday. Nearby, Sierraville features three additional restaurants, alongside a campground suitable for RVs but without hookups. Familiarizing yourself with the tranquil atmosphere before your visit is advisable. Sierra Hot Springs is located north of Truckee, California, just off California Highway 89.
