Mcgill Springs

Mcgill Springs gives you spring swimming access near Ely in Nevada. Expect a natural bank, not a built beach.

In a region defined by sagebrush flats, wide-open skies, and the silence of the Great Basin, stumbling upon a crystal-clear, spring-fed pool feels genuinely extraordinary. The surrounding terrain is quintessential Great Basin: broad valleys flanked by mountain ranges, the air dry and electric with the scent of desert scrub. When you arrive at the springs, the contrast is striking. Lush, cool moisture in the middle of sun-baked country. The landscape rewards visitors who pay attention to it, shifting from dusty and austere to quietly verdant around the water's edge. The proximity to Great Basin National Park means the horizon is anchored by the dramatic Snake Range, with Wheeler Peak visible on clear days, its upper slopes sometimes holding snow well into summer. Swimming, Sliding, and Diving This isn't a passive, wade-in-and-stand-around kind of spot.

The spring-fed pool supports swimming, sliding, and diving, making it a lively destination for families, adventurous solo travelers, and anyone who wants more than just a dip. You'll feel the chill on your skin as you surface, and the clarity of the water means you can see what's beneath you, which makes diving and exploring feel genuinely rewarding rather than uncertain. Picnic tables are available on-site, so you can spread out a meal and make a full afternoon of it. Planning Your Visit The best time to experience McGill Springs is between late May and early September, when warm temperatures and clear desert skies make the cool water feel like an earned reward rather than a shock. Access is easy. There are no steep or demanding trails to navigate, and the site is suitable for visitors of all fitness levels and ages. Whether you're traveling with young children or elderly grandparents, getting to the water shouldn't be a struggle.

Treat Mcgill Springs as a wild swim: no lifeguard, variable depth, and rules that can change by season.

Mcgill Springs works well as a day trip from Ely or Mcgill. Stock up in town, then head to the water with food, water, and sun protection. Combine the swim with camping at Blue Pond or browse more Nevada spring spots in our directory. For the full list in Nevada, see our state directory.

Access is via public roads in McGill. Parking is available near the intersection of Dairy Road and Main Street. The fee status is unknown; check for any posted signage. Facilities are limited to picnic tables. Respect private property boundaries near the site.

McGill Springs is located near Ely, a town rich in history from its Pony Express roots to its copper mining boom in the early 20th century.

Follow Leave No Trace principles to protect the fragile desert ecosystem. Avoid littering and respect wildlife habitats.