The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App

Best Dispersed Camping near Austin, NV

16 Reviews

Dispersed camping near Austin, Nevada features several primitive sites on public lands, primarily centered around natural hot springs. Spencer Hot Springs offers free camping on BLM land with multiple soaking pools ranging from 97°F to 115°F. Bartine Hot Springs provides a more remote experience but requires careful navigation. Twin Trailhead Camp serves as a quieter alternative with Forest Service access. These areas lack developed facilities and operate on strict Leave No Trace principles.

Vehicle access varies significantly between sites. Spencer Hot Springs is accessible via dirt roads off Highway 50, though several campers note deep ruts and sandy patches that may require 4WD, especially after rain. According to reviews, "After a rain, you'll need 4x4 and high clearance" for Bartine Hot Springs. Navigation can be challenging; downloading offline maps is essential as cell service is unreliable outside of Spencer Hot Springs, where some report good Verizon coverage. No potable water exists at any site; visitors must pack in all supplies.

The natural environment presents both attractions and challenges. Wild burros frequently visit Spencer Hot Springs at dusk, creating memorable encounters for campers. Coyotes can be heard at night, and jackrabbits are common. Wind exposure is significant, particularly on hilltops. Fire rings exist at some locations, but visitors should check current fire restrictions before traveling. The springs themselves vary in temperature and condition; some pools contain natural algae growth while others are maintained in cleaner condition. The area follows standard BLM dispersed camping regulations with a 14-day stay limit. All sites require complete pack-in/pack-out practices as no trash facilities exist.

Map showing campgrounds near Austin, NevadaExplore the Map

Best Dispersed Sites Near Austin, Nevada (3)

    1. Spencer Hot Springs

    14 Reviews
    Austin, NV
    17 miles
    +1 (775) 964-2200

    "We were all giggling in our rooftop tents. We woke up to the sound of wild burrows and coyotes. It was probably the funniest experience camping."

    "Free/dispersed only.

    Great dispersed camping on BLM land, right next to hot springs. One of our favorite dispersed sites as well as hot springs."

    2. Bartine Hot Springs

    2 Reviews
    Austin, NV
    38 miles

    3. Twin Trailhead Camp

    1 Review
    Round Mountain, NV
    43 miles

    "No turn arounds for a long ways up the middle fork to mouth of canyon (I don’t go beyond that)

    Beautiful, quiet, clean spot with few to no other people and sparse options for shade."

Show More
Showing results 1-3 of 3 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Austin Contest

Enter to Win

Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Austin, NV

13 Photos of 3 Austin Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Austin, NV

16 Reviews of 3 Austin Campgrounds

  • April C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2022

    Spencer Hot Springs

    Dispursed Camping with Donkeys?

    We showed up as the sun was setting. Our friends found the site. While in bed we heard coyotes, which was pretty cool. Then we heard wild burrows, one after another. We were all giggling in our rooftop tents. We woke up to the sound of wild burrows and coyotes. It was probably the funniest experience camping. It helped to have 4WD, so we didn't camp next to others. There are no toilets, water, or trash, on sites, and no trees. Please leave no trace. Enjoy the sunset and sunrise.

  • Ariel & John W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 5, 2020

    Spencer Hot Springs

    Swim with the donkeys!

    Free/dispersed only.

    Great dispersed camping on BLM land, right next to hot springs. One of our favorite dispersed sites as well as hot springs. There are 5-6 different springs within close proximity and at different temperatures so look around and try them all. The abundant wild donkeys and pronghorn also use the cooler warm springs as a drinking hole which makes an interesting soak. The spots around the springs fill up but there are lots of hills and land around to get some space. No amenities of any kind, dispersed/boondocking only.

    Between towns of Austin and Eureka on 50. When we were there, these little towns and few others on way to Tonopah believed COVID-19 was a hoax and many businesses & restaurants shunned mask use or social distancing (see photo).

    The hot springs are easier to find first time if you come in off 376 rather than 50.

    Plus code: 85F5 84GR+P3

  • Jonathan M.
    Apr. 21, 2025

    Bartine Hot Springs

    Decent spot, easy to get lost

    Get here from 3 Bars Road and turn right at the power lines. Follow it down to the springs. Kinda neat. Road was mixed getting here the first part was great but closer to the spring is rough.

    I got stuck trying to follow Google - it's very wrong.

    After a rain, you'll need 4x4 and high clearance. I spilt and zig-zaged my way through the pot holes while it was dry

  • Kailey C.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 19, 2020

    Spencer Hot Springs

    Hot Springs off the beaten path

    If you take the road off Hwy 50 there is an area with hot springs and a place to camp. No covered areas but set up fire pits so may be best for camper van/ RV style trips. Hot spring at the top has a silt bottom but very relaxing, and cell phone service! Drive in was packed gravel and got muddy when we were coming in because of rain but our campervan had no issues.

  • C
    Oct. 19, 2020

    Spencer Hot Springs

    Could not find, no cell service

    I went to the coordinates provided in the Dyrt app, and nothing was there except a mine. I had absolutely zero cell service (not even 1x) in this valley with Verizon. I’m pretty confused what the other comments about because I didn’t see anything. If you attempt, definitely download maps offline in advance.

    Edit: I moved on to another site but now, looking at the coordinates in the Dyrt app and the location when searching Google Maps, they are very different. Perhaps the Google Maps location is where it actually is.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 21, 2024

    Spencer Hot Springs

    Beautiful views and nice soak!

    We’ve been here several times. Sometimes we camp here, sometimes we soak, then head to nearby Bob Scott campground. There are several pools. We usually try to find an empty one. Beautiful views and love the Burro visits at dusk. No facilities but some rock fire rings. Please pack it in/pack it out!! I wish people didn’t set up their camp right on top of tubs! There is plenty of space to spread out a little and it makes for a much more pleasant soaking experience.

  • Kevin W.
    Jul. 1, 2020

    Spencer Hot Springs

    Remote relaxing hot springs

    This place is definitely in the middle of nowhere along Highway 50. I was a little sketched out driving down the dirt road without cell service but the hot springs were easy to find and seemed clean. There were a few other groups there and everyone shared the tubs. Clothing optional! Have plenty of water and take precautions, but highly recommend.

  • TC A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 14, 2022

    Spencer Hot Springs

    What a gem

    Down a decent dirt road. Little washboard in places. The upper tub was not warm enough for me 97*. The lower however was 107* which I loved. Didn’t see any burro. However one gentleman said they are further up if you like hiking. The people were nice. No one was at the lower one because of the soft scum that naturally grows. The upper tub had a new bin. I had the lower one to myself. There is a nice post with hooks for towels there. Verizon is 3-4 bars!

  • Jody S.
    Feb. 14, 2021

    Spencer Hot Springs

    A man and his dog BoomerZ go hot tubbin 

          Spencer’s Hot Springs. What a treat. Though a long way out in middle of nowhere land which is awesome this trip was worth the dip. Spent a week here exploring the hot springs, the gold  mines in the local area (do not go in though), and the Toquima Caves with ancient Pictographs about 8 miles further up the same service road I came in on 001 next to Toquima campground. 
      Their are 4 different soak areas at Spencer’s Hot Springs ranging from 104-115 degrees in the tubs currently and one has gold fish in the overflow. If you are the only one their you may have to drive/walk around and look low to the ground to find the tubs except the main big one which is in the ground. Their is a hill if you need to you can walk to top and you will see them all if you look carefully. Be clean and be aware of the random wind gusts and local Donkeys that will visit you at night. Yup. Face to face. It happened. Lol. 
      ATT cell service was good whole time. Bring extra and a smidge more food water gas. It’s a ways out their down the loneliest road in America.

Guide to Austin

Discovering the beauty of dispersed camping near Austin, Nevada, offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature while enjoying the freedom of the great outdoors. With stunning landscapes and natural hot springs, this area is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Beautiful Views and Soaking Opportunities for Dispersed Campers

  • The Spencer Hot Springs is a must-visit for its multiple soaking pools, where you can relax while taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Unique Wildlife Encounters for Dispersed Campers

  • Camping at Spencer Hot Springs provides the chance to spot wild burros and coyotes, adding an exciting element to your outdoor experience.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Austin, Nevada

  • When visiting Spencer Hot Springs, remember to pack out what you pack in, as there are no facilities available, ensuring the area remains pristine for future visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Austin, NV?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Austin, NV is Spencer Hot Springs with a 3.9-star rating from 14 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Austin, NV?

TheDyrt.com has all 3 dispersed camping locations near Austin, NV, with real photos and reviews from campers.

Keep Exploring