Las Vegas is known to be one of the party capitals of the world, but what many don’t know is that the city has a handful of beautiful hot springs hidden somewhat nearby. We’ll look at a range of natural mineral pools in both Nevada and Arizona, located anywhere from 45 minutes to 4 hours from Vegas.
It should be noted that Nevada often hits record highs in the summer with temperatures reaching up to well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. This means hiking to any hot springs is closed during the summer months, typically from June to September. At other times, from October to May, make sure to bring extra water, head out early in the day, and take precautions.
There are also many campgrounds near Las Vegas for RVs and tent campers, open year-round if you can deal with the weather.
Whether you’re looking for a quick way to detox your body or simply want to check out a thermal pool, here are the closest hot springs to the bustling city of Las Vegas, NV, in order of proximity:
Arizona Hot Springs – AZ: 40 mi | .75 hr
Arizona Hot Springs is the closest and most easily accessible spring from Las Vegas. For those of you looking for a quick soak before heading back to the excitement of the city, this is a great option. The spring is located in Henderson, right outside of Las Vegas, making it easy to reach by car.
In addition to its close proximity, Arizona Hot Springs, also called Ringbolt, offers visitors a noteworthy view of the Colorado River. The spring is reachable by hike and will take you through a number of different beautifully colored rock formations and narrow gorges. The hike itself is extremely strenuous and closed during the summer months due to hazardous temperatures.
For those of you who are lucky enough to be in the area during the cooler season, this spring will make you feel like you’ve been teleported to the moon.
Willow Beach, AZ 86445 | 702-293-8906 | nps.gov/lake/planyourvisit/arizona-hot-spring-trail.htm
Gold Strike Hot Springs – NV: 37 mi | .75 hr
Just under an hour outside the chaotic city of Las Vegas, is Gold Strike Hot Springs. The springs can be reached by a difficult out and back trail. It’s recommended to avoid going May through September when temperatures are at their peak, especially considering the difficult accessibility of the spring.
The trail itself includes some bouldering, a twenty-foot rope, and rigorous scaling, so it’s not for the faint of heart. Thankfully, the view you’ll be met with at the end is truly worth the effort.
Gold Strike is surrounded by calming waterfall sounds and the beautiful Nevada wilderness. Known for its secluded area and emerald green waters, this spring is not one you want to miss. The area will give you access to larger swimming holes, caves to explore, and some of the terrains’ most jaw-dropping sights.
Gold Strike Hot Springs Trail, NV 89005
Rogers Spring – NV: 55 mi | 1.25 hr
Rogers Spring in Clark county, Nevada is located about an hour and a half outside the city and is extremely easy to reach. There are a few pools you can enjoy year-round, some of which have a depth of up to seventy-five feet. Even with the pool’s crystal clear water, you won’t be able to see the bottom.
The springs themselves have a resort-like feel and are extremely refreshing. The area is clean, looks untouched, and will make you feel like you just walked out of a movie. The oasis is in the middle of a dry desert making the roaring waters that much more impressive.
For those of you looking to explore the area for an extended amount of time, the hot springs are surrounded by a handful of other hikes and the famous Lake Mead (Hoover Dam). There are a ton of different rock formations to check out, and for all you plant lovers out there, this will be a spot for the books. Just make sure to bring yourself some extra water, especially if you’re visiting in the dry and hot summer months.
Northshore Road, Nevada 89040 | 702-293-8990 (USFS) | nps.gov/lake/learn/nature/rogers-spring.htm
Blue Point Spring – NV: 55 mi | 1.25 hr
Blue Point Springs is about an hour outside of the city and is truly a desert oasis. This oddly placed paradise is surrounded by palms, cacti, and tons of wildlife. It’s open year-round but is best to visit between September and May when the heat is low and the wildlife activity is high. Bonus points for those of you that are able to spot some of the rare and captivating bird and insect species in the area. It’s an outdoor lover’s dream!
The springs are reachable by hike and attached to Roger Hot Springs…so it’s a two-for-one deal! Thankfully the trailhead is right of the highway and the hike itself is quite easy. You won’t regret checking out this area!
Northshore Road, Nevada 89040 | 702-293-8990 (USFS)
Kaiser Warm Springs – AZ: 175 mi | 2.5 hr
Kaiser Warm Springs is located right outside of Nevada in Wikieup, Arizona. The quick drive across the state’s border will give you access to a beautifully narrow canyon, which leads to the magical Kaiser springs. The area is reachable by hiking the beginner-level 1.5-mile trail through the canyon walls.
The springs are open year-round and stay at a steady temperature of 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Arizona does tend to have high heat in the summers, so it’s advised to visit the springs from November through April when temperatures aren’t so hot. Regardless, you’ll be able to enjoy the stunning sites and tall cacti that Arizona offers while relaxing in the geothermal pools any time of year.
Wikieup, AZ 85360
Alkali Hot Springs – NV: 195 mi | 3 hr
Alkali Hot Springs is a bit further outside Las Vegas, but it’s a great stop for anyone passing through the area or with a bit of extra time on their hands. The rustic-looking pools are enclosed by small walls in the middle of the vast Nevada desert.
The location offers a range of different soaking options and views, including primitive tubs and natural pools. In addition, the area has a great deal of history tied to it. Alkali Hot Springs is extremely close to an old and abandoned mining city from the early stages of the gold rush.
The springs are located on private property, but there’s a great deal of BLM land surrounding the springs. This means if you want to pitch a tent for the night and really get the most out of your outing, you can! It’s a great way to take in the summer starry night sky and make the most out of the unique pools. Since the springs do require a small hike to reach, it’s best to start early in the day or visit during the cooler months.
Silver Rd, Peak, Mesquite, NV 89027
Warm Springs – NV: 206 mi | 3 hr
Warm Springs is located in an abandoned area of the spooky and never-ending extraterrestrial highway (highway six). The springs are placed between two buildings which feed the hot spring water into the concrete pool, making it feel like you’re in nature’s hot tub/ The pools have an industrialized feel, making them a unique and memorable experience unlike any other.
To access the springs are near the town of Tonopah Basin making it a great stop for anyone on a road trip. The springs are accessible by car from April to December (but the water is likely too hot in the summer), but can only be reached with snow skis or boots the rest of the year.
Route 6 and 375, NV 89049
Fish Lake Valley Hot Well – 250 mi | 4 hr
Four hours outside of the city is one of the state’s most breathtaking springs. Thankfully the area provides travelers with a number of free campsites, so there’s no need to rush back to the city if you don’t want to. In addition, this particular spring tends to draw crowds, making it the perfect place to socialize if you’re not ready to fully give up the friendly feel of Las Vegas.
The Fish Lake Valley Hot Well lies between the White Mountains and Silver Peak Mountains and is open year-round. The valley views are truly incredible and the area allows users access to three separate pools, two of which are natural springs, and one of which is warmer and enclosed in a concrete barrier. This spring is living proof that the best place to be is in nature!
Dyer, NV 89010 | 208-544-1203
Those are among the closest hot springs to Las Vegas, Nevada. Remember to pack plenty of water for your visit and don’t attempt any of these primitive hikes during the hot summer months.
If visiting during the wintertime, consider adding one of the closer ski resorts to Vegas to your itinerary. There are several within four hours, with the closest being Lee Canyon at about an hour’s drive.
For those visiting the Lake Tahoe area, check out these hot springs near Reno, NV. Have fun in the Sagebrush State!
Landmannalaugar Hot Springs – Southern Iceland