Agua Caliente County Park

39555 County Route S-2
Ph: 760-765-1188
Closed from June 1st to September 1st

Campsite Description	Weather
On-line reservations	Map
Fees	Program Guide

It seems an unlikely spot, but in the desert 111 miles from San Diego is the county's Agua Caliente Regional Park. Best known for its geothermally heated springs, it attracts visitors eager to soak in the soothing mineral waters. But Agua Caliente offers far more than therapeutic pools. There are spectacular vistas that await campers and picnickers alike, and hikers will enjoy miles of trails that meander through the park's canyons and across its hillsides. During the height of its season, September through May, this is one of the county's most popular parks.

A Haven in the Desert
Water in the desert is an irresistible magnet to life. The Kumeyaay Indians were initially attracted to the springs at what we now call Agua Caliente ("hot water" in Spanish) centuries ago. Spanish explorer Juan de Anza was the first European to visit the area, in 1775. In more recent times, the springs at Agua Caliente were used by pioneers, soldiers, and prospectors.

The seismic activity that long ago shaped the Tierra Blanca Mountains (and created the fault that runs beneath the park) also enabled water to come to the surface and form the park's natural springs. A wide variety of wildlife is attracted to these springs, including ground squirrels, foxes, coyotes, bobcats, and mountain lions. The relatively abundant water supply also supports lush plant life, such as mesquite, willows, Washingtonia palms, and acacias. Depending on the season's rainfall, wildflowers and succulents sometimes put on a colorful show in early spring.

Facilities
Two naturally fed pools provide different ways of enjoying the park's mineral water: a large outdoor pool is a natural 90 degrees, and an indoor therapeutic spa is heated to 102 degrees and outfitted with Jacuzzi jets. (Check pool hours here.) Many of the 140 campsites have full or partial hookups, and spring-fed warm showers are available. A caravan area can accommodate large groups. A small picnic area is perfect for day users.

Hiking trails, horseshoe pits, shuffleboard courts, and a children's play area offer the visitor plenty to do in the 910-acre park, which is open from Labor Day to Memorial Day. Surrounding Agua Caliente is Anza Borrego Desert State Park, the largest state park in the country. It will provide additional adventures for visitors who come to explore San Diego's marvel-filled desert.

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