I recently visited Trego Hot Springs, located in the Black Rock Desert in Nevada. It is a fantastic natural hot spring. This region is well-known for its vast flat playa and the famous Burning Man festival that takes place every year. What sets Trego apart from other hot springs is its rustic and untouched atmosphere, providing visitors with a truly authentic and natural soaking experience. It's the perfect place to connect with nature and unwind in a serene setting.

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The Hot Springs Experience

Trego Hot Springs is a naturally fed geothermal spring that flows into a long, shallow pool, offering a rustic and peaceful soaking experience in the middle of the desert.

What to Expect:

Long, Shallow Pool: The main pool at Trego Hot Springs is a shallow, elongated body of water, typically ranging from 1 to 3 feet in depth. The pool is formed by a hot spring that feeds into the stream, creating a natural and primitive soaking environment.
Variable Temperatures: The water temperature in the pool can vary significantly depending on where you choose to soak. Near the source, temperatures can reach as high as 105°F (40°C), while farther downstream, the water cools to a more comfortable range. This allows you to find the perfect spot based on your preference.
Desert Views: The hot springs are surrounded by the expansive, flat terrain of the Black Rock Desert, with wide-open skies and mountain ranges in the distance. The remote setting creates a tranquil ambiance, ideal for relaxing and soaking in the natural mineral waters.
Clothing Optional: Trego Hot Springs has a relaxed, clothing-optional policy, which is common at many remote hot springs in the area. Visitors are welcome to soak in whichever way makes them feel most comfortable, adding to the laid-back, natural atmosphere of the springs.

Insider Tip: The water near the spring’s source can be extremely hot, so always test the temperature before fully immersing yourself. Move farther downstream for cooler water if needed.

Accessibility and Getting There

Trego Hot Springs is located in a remote area of Nevada, and reaching the springs requires navigating rough desert roads. However, the journey through the Black Rock Desert is part of the adventure.

Getting There:

Location: Trego Hot Springs is located in the Black Rock Desert, about 12 miles east of Gerlach, Nevada.
Directions: From Gerlach, take the State Route 447 north. Turn onto Trego Road, which leads into the desert. The hot springs are located about 3 miles off the main road. The desert road can be rough and rocky, so a high-clearance vehicle is recommended.
Parking: There is no formal parking area at Trego Hot Springs, but you can park near the springs along the dirt road. Be mindful of soft sand and avoid getting stuck.

Insider Tip: Avoid visiting after rain, as the desert roads can become muddy and difficult to navigate. Be prepared for dry, dusty conditions, and pack accordingly.

What to Bring

Visiting Trego Hot Springs means stepping into a remote and undeveloped area, so preparation is key. Here are some essentials to bring along:

Plenty of water for drinking and additional for rinsing off after soaking.

Snacks and food, as there are no facilities nearby.
Sunscreen and hats to protect against the desert sun.
Towels and comfortable, quick-drying clothing.
Trash bags to pack out what you pack in, adhering to the Leave No Trace principles.

When is the Best Time to Visit?

Visiting Trego Hot Springs is best in the spring and fall when the temperatures are milder, making the soak in the hot spring more enjoyable against the backdrop of either blooming desert flowers or changing autumn colors. Summer can get scorching, making the hot water less appealing during the day, and winter can be harsh and less accessible due to potential road conditions. These springs are part of the Black Rock Desert, known for its stark beauty and being the site of the Burning Man festival. If you're looking to avoid crowds and enjoy some tranquility, aim for times outside of the festival season. Always pack in what you need and pack out all your trash, as facilities are minimal and it's a leave-no-trace area.

Nighttime at Trego

Experiencing Trego Hot Springs under the starlit sky offers an entirely different dimension to the visit. As the sun sets and the colors of the desert shift, the hot springs become a sanctuary of warmth in the cool night air. Stargazing from the comfort of the thermal waters was an unforgettable experience, with the clear desert skies offering a dazzling display of constellations and celestial bodies. The absence of light pollution enhances the visibility of the Milky Way, making it a prime location for astronomy enthusiasts and romantic souls alike. It’s one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever seen.

Nearby Activities

Apart from the hot springs, there are plenty of other things to do and see in the Black Rock Desert.

Discover the wonders of the Black Rock Playa, where you can hike, take stunning photographs, and truly appreciate the immense beauty of the desert.
Don't miss out on the Fly Ranch Geyser, a vibrant geothermal wonder that is just a short distance away and definitely worth checking out.
Make sure to visit the Burning Man site, even if it's not during the festival, to witness the place that transforms into a lively city once a year.

Best Places to Eat Near Trego Hot Springs

Finding a place to eat near Trego Hot Springs can be a bit of a challenge since it's pretty remote, nestled out in the Nevada desert. Your best bet for a wider selection of restaurants is to head into nearby towns like Gerlach or even Fernley if you're up for a bit of a drive. In Gerlach, you've got a few straightforward options that can hit the spot after a day at the springs:

Bruno's Country Club: A classic spot in Gerlach that serves up hearty American meals. It's got that homey, diner vibe where you can get a good, solid meal.
Joe's Gerlach Club: Known for its bar but also serves simple, tasty dishes. It's a casual place to unwind and fill up.
The Miner's Club: Offers basic pub fare in a friendly atmosphere. A good place to grab a bite and maybe a drink.

Remember, options are limited, and these spots can vary in hours and offerings, so it's a good idea to plan ahead or consider packing some snacks and food for your trip to Trego Hot Springs.

trego hot springs clothing optional — image courtesy of @kallilloocklear

Our Opinion

I believe Trego Hot Springs provides a special opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the stunning and tranquil surroundings of the Black Rock Desert. With proper preparation and a mindset of environmental respect, guests can relax and recharge in this incredible location. Whether you're a hot springs veteran or a newcomer seeking excitement, Trego Hot Springs is definitely a place to check out.

Want to find more hot springs in Nevada? Check out our Hot Springs Nevada Map!

Trego Hot Springs - Updated 2024 Guide