This secluded hot springs and campground is located about 100 miles from San Diego along County Route S-2. The Kumeyaay Indians were some of the first visitors to the springs at what is now called Agua Caliente (“hot water” in Spanish.) Spanish explorer Juan de Anza was the first European to visit the area in 1775. Historically, the springs at Agua Caliente were used by pioneers, soldiers, and prospectors.
Hot Spring Pools
There are three naturally-fed pools at the park. A large outdoor pool is a natural 90 degrees and the most popular place to dip for families. The indoor therapeutic spa is heated to 102 degrees and can only be used by ages 14 and over during the day. Evenings are reserved for adults only. There is also a tiny heated children’s pool. There are lockers and changing rooms with shower facilities for day-use visitors and campers.
Hiking Agua Caliente Springs Park
When you’re not dipping in the hot springs, several miles of trails branch out from the campground. Moonlight Canyon Trail is a two-mile loop that follows a narrow sandy wash. Marsh Trail is a half-mile trail with a seasonal creek. Desert Overlook Trail starts at the ranger station and climbs 1/4 mile to the top of a hill with incredible desert vistas. There is also a small nature trail near the campground.
Camping
Campers can use one of the 140 campsites with full or partial hookups. The park also features seven cottages with a fire ring, picnic table, and parking. Campsites range from full hook-ups, partial hook-ups, primary sites, and tent sites. Before you visit, call ahead for camping reservations and park hours. Reservations can be made online (recommended) at the park’s website.
Nearby Things To Do
Vallecito Stage Station County Park features a restored stage station that is well worth a look. There is also a campsite at this park. Surrounding Agua Caliente is Anza Borrego Desert State Park, the largest state park in the country.
This remote park is located west of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park in eastern San Diego County, California. Address 39555 County Route S-2. Website. Ph: 760-765-1188. Due to high summer temperatures, the park is closed on Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend.
Hi,
I am contacting you here since I could not find a telephone number.
We have a reservation for December 25th and I wanted to know the opening hours for the hot springs pools.
We may arrive during the afternoon and would like to profit from this wonderful experience as long as possible. Do campers have access to the pools at night hours?
Thank you very much,
Maria
The info I have is:
Park Hours:
Day-use – 9:30 a.m. to sunset, daily; Camping – 24 hours/day. Open Labor Day weekend to Memorial Day. Sorry, no dogs on the trail or pool decks.
Indoor Pool Hours:
10:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. every day: Adults (21+) and kids (14+)
9:30 – 10:30 a.m. every day: Adults only
6 – 9 p.m. Friday – Saturday: Adult campers only
Outdoor Pool Hours:
9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. every day: All ages
6 – 9 p.m. Friday – Saturday: All ages, campers only
Children’s Pool Hours:
9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m., every day: All ages