Dispersed camping near Austin, Nevada includes several undeveloped sites on public land managed by the Bureau of Land Management and Forest Service. Located at 6,600 feet elevation in the Toiyabe Mountain Range, the area experiences extreme temperature fluctuations with summer highs reaching 90°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. The high desert landscape features sagebrush flats interspersed with juniper and pinyon pine at higher elevations.
What to do
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location of Spencer Hot Springs provides exceptional dark sky viewing. "I had the lower one to myself. There is a nice post with hooks for towels there. Verizon is 3-4 bars!" notes camper TC A., highlighting the ability to document celestial events while maintaining connectivity.
Wildlife observation: Dawn and dusk offer prime viewing opportunities for desert wildlife. "Had an amazing view where I could see donkeys roaming, jackrabbits hopping about and various other desert like critters," reports Trenton S. about his experience at Spencer Hot Springs. The wild burros are particularly active around sunset when they approach water sources.
Historical exploration: The area contains numerous historical mining remnants and structures. At Stokes Castle, camper Lisa notes, "There is a large flat area for several rigs with stunning views next to the historic Stokes Castle. A few cars do come and go during the day to see the castle but stay just a bit as there's nothing else to do."
What campers like
Multiple soaking options: The hot springs offer diverse experiences based on temperature preferences. TC A. reports at Spencer Hot Springs, "The upper tub was not warm enough for me 97°. The lower however was 107° which I loved." This temperature variation allows visitors to select pools matching their comfort level.
Natural quiet: Many campers value the minimal visitation at certain sites. At Twin Trailhead Camp, Niko L. describes it as a "Beautiful, quiet, clean spot with few to no other people and sparse options for shade," highlighting the solitude available despite limited tree cover.
Evening wildlife encounters: The daily movement of wild burros creates memorable camping experiences. Janet K. notes at Spencer Hot Springs, "Beautiful views and love the Burro visits at dusk. No facilities but some rock fire rings. Please pack it in/pack it out!!" These wildlife interactions occur regularly but require responsible visitor behavior.
What you should know
Navigation challenges: GPS directions can be unreliable in remote areas. At Bartine Hot Springs, Jonathan M. warns, "I got stuck trying to follow Google - it's very wrong." He recommends specific routes: "Get here from 3 Bars Road and turn right at the power lines. Follow it down to the springs."
Seasonal access variations: Weather dramatically impacts road conditions. For Bartine Hot Springs, Jonathan M. cautions, "Road was mixed getting here the first part was great but closer to the spring is rough... 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."
Spring temperatures fluctuate: Hot spring temperatures require testing before use. Athena M. describes Bartine Hot Springs as having a "Single two person hot spring 120°F too hot to use," while at Spencer Hot Springs, Evan C. advises, "If you want to use the plastic tub with the swiveling pipe, check the temp well ahead of your soak."
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: Solo camping or traveling with children requires additional precautions. Kristen W. recounts at Spencer Hot Springs, "We came here (2 female campers) and were amazed by the views and the hot springs! There were plenty of spots, 4wd would be nice to get up to the higher ones... We did encounter a pretty creepy older guy and he made us feel very uncomfortable. We ended up not staying the night because he hung around. Don't go alone!"
Vehicle preparation: Family trips require appropriate transportation for rough terrain. Kailey C. shares about Spencer Hot Springs, "Drive in was packed gravel and got muddy when we were coming in because of rain but our campervan had no issues." However, standard passenger cars may struggle on certain access roads.
Site selection strategy: Families should consider proximity to facilities when choosing camping spots. Annie C. suggests, "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."
Tips from RVers
Parking considerations: RV sites are limited to flat, accessible areas. Lisa notes at Stokes Castle, "There is a large flat area for several rigs with stunning views next to the historic Stokes Castle. It's a short drive on a dirt road just after the Champs gas station. We hunkered down for the day to avoid driving in windy conditions."
Wind exposure management: RVs face significant wind on elevated sites. Trenton S. reports, "Was on the top of a hill so as to be expected it was never not windy, made PBnJs because I didn't want to deal with my grill even." This environmental factor affects cooking, awning use, and general comfort.
Alternative approaches: Some RVers use the hot springs without overnight stays. Kevin W. shares, "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."
