Fish Lake Valley Hot Springs - Free soaking · donation encouraged in Dyer, NV (2026)
A concrete soaking tub and warm wildlife ponds sit beneath Boundary Peak on the Nevada–California line. Stargazing is unreal thanks to Bortle Class 1 skies, and the artesian well feeds the tub with a steady 105°F flow.
Fish Lake Valley Hot Springs is a free, county-maintained soaking site in remote Esmeralda County, Nevada — about 60 miles north of Death Valley and 50 miles south of Tonopah, in the open valley beneath Boundary Peak (Nevada's highest point). One concrete soaking tub fed by a steady 105°F artesian flow plus warm overflow ponds that double as wildlife habitat. The Bortle Class 1 night sky here (the darkest official rating) makes it one of the best stargazing soaks in the country. Free dispersed camping at the site.
What to expect
Drive in via NV-264 (paved) and a short graded-dirt spur (passable to most vehicles when dry). Concrete tub holds 4-6 people, no time limit, no fees, no staff. Vault toilets nearby; no other facilities. Camping is permitted on the gravel pads adjacent. Bring everything: water, food, layers, headlamp. Cell signal is essentially zero from Tonopah south.
Temperature
100°-105°F
Pools
2 soaking pools
Best season
Year-round
Reservations
Walk-up friendly
Dog policy
Leashed dogs welcome
Family policy
Family windows available
Safety notes
- County Route 264’s spur road becomes impassable when it’s raining or snow-covered—wait for the playa to dry before driving out.
- Keep pets and soap out of the overflow ponds to protect the fish and migrating waterfowl that rely on this oasis.
Amenities & etiquette
FAQ
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