Desert Hot Springs, Spa destination in Riverside County, California, United States
Desert Hot Springs is a community in Riverside County, California, set at 328 meters elevation between two mountain ranges. The town spreads across several blocks of smaller spa hotels, private wellness centers, and residential neighborhoods all drawing from underground mineral springs.
After the hot water aquifers were discovered on Miracle Hill in 1913, spa facilities and residences began to appear across this desert zone. The community became an independent city in September 1963 and gradually developed into a health tourism center.
The Cahuilla people knew these springs for centuries before settlers arrived and used them for healing ceremonies and spiritual gatherings. Today the name of the area honors this heritage, while the hot water tradition continues to draw travelers seeking relaxation and wellness.
The spa facilities are scattered across town, so visitors need a car to move between different properties. Many places offer day passes that allow access to multiple pools with varying temperatures.
The Mission Creek Fault runs directly beneath the town and separates two completely independent water layers. One layer supplies hot mineral water for the spa hotels, while the other provides cold drinking water for households.
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