Bashford’s Hot Mineral Spa

## Overview Bashford's Hot Mineral Spa is a hot mineral spring located in the desert landscape of Riverside County, California, near the eastern shore of the Salton Sea. Situated at approximately 33.425°N, 115.682°W, the spring lies in the geothermally active region surrounding the Salton Sea, an area long known for its natural hot springs and mineral-rich waters. The broader region has been used for centuries by indigenous Cahuilla people who valued the area's thermal waters for their healing properties. The name "Bashford's" suggests a historical homestead or private operation that once developed the spring for bathing and soaking — a common practice in the early-to-mid 20th century when desert hot springs throughout the Coachella Valley and Salton Sea area attracted visitors seeking therapeutic mineral soaks. The geothermal activity in this region is driven by the same tectonic forces associated with the San Andreas Fault system, which heats groundwater as it circulates deep underground before rising to the surface. Visitors to this area should be aware that the desert environment can be extreme, with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 110°F (43°C). The best time to visit is typically between November and March when temperatures are more moderate. ## Directions 1. From the town of Mecca, California, head southeast on Highway 111 along the eastern shore of the Salton Sea. 2. The spring is located in the desert lowlands east of the Salton Sea, near the GPS coordinates 33.4250, -115.6815. 3. Use GPS navigation to reach the precise location, as desert roads in this area can be unmarked and difficult to follow. 4. A high-clearance vehicle may be advisable depending on road conditions, as access roads in this part of the desert can be rough and sandy. *Note: These directions are approximate and based on GPS coordinates. Visitors are encouraged to scout current road conditions before heading out.* ## What to Expect Bashford's Hot Mineral Spa is set in the stark, open desert terrain characteristic of the Salton Sea region. The landscape is flat and arid, with sparse vegetation and wide views of the surrounding desert and distant mountains. As a hot mineral spring, the water temperature is expected to be significantly above ambient — hot springs in this geothermal zone commonly range from 90°F to over 150°F (32°C–66°C) at the source. The mineral content of hot springs in the Salton Sea area is typically high, often containing dissolved salts, sulfur, lithium, and other minerals. The water may have a distinct mineral smell. Historically, springs in this region have been used for soaking and bathing rather than drinking. Because this is a remote desert location, visitors should come prepared with plenty of drinking water, sun protection, and a full tank of gas. Cell phone service may be limited or nonexistent. Let someone know your plans before heading out. The area is best enjoyed during the cooler months, and visitors should be cautious of flash flooding during rare desert rainstorms.