Elsinore Hot Springs & Lodge

## Overview Elsinore Hot Springs & Lodge is a historic hot springs destination located in the city of Lake Elsinore, California, in western Riverside County. The area's geothermal activity has been known and valued for centuries — long before European settlement, the indigenous Luiseño people are believed to have used the naturally heated mineral waters in the region for bathing and healing purposes. Lake Elsinore's hot springs gained wider attention in the late 1800s and early 1900s, when the town became a popular resort destination. Entrepreneurs built bathhouses and lodges around the natural hot spring sources, drawing visitors from across Southern California who sought the reputed therapeutic benefits of the mineral-rich waters. The springs in this area are fed by geothermal activity associated with the Elsinore Fault Zone, one of the major fault systems in Southern California. This tectonic activity heats groundwater deep below the surface, which then rises to emerge as warm-to-hot mineral springs. Historically, the waters at Elsinore's hot springs have been reported to contain dissolved minerals including sulfur, calcium, and other trace elements commonly associated with geothermal springs. Visitors over the decades have described the water as having a mild mineral taste and a warm, soothing quality. While the springs have long been used for soaking and bathing, the water should not be assumed safe for drinking without proper testing. The Elsinore Hot Springs & Lodge sits at an elevation near the western shore of Lake Elsinore, the largest natural freshwater lake in Southern California. The surrounding landscape features the rolling, sun-drenched hills and chaparral-covered terrain typical of inland Riverside County, with views toward the Santa Ana Mountains to the west. ## Directions 1. From Interstate 15, take the **Railroad Canyon Road** exit (Exit 77) and head west toward the city of Lake Elsinore. 2. Continue on Railroad Canyon Road as it curves south and becomes **Main Street** in downtown Lake Elsinore. 3. The hot springs area is located in the historic downtown district near the lakeshore. Use GPS coordinates **33.6727, -117.3254** to navigate to the precise location. 4. Look for signage for the lodge and hot springs facility. Parking is typically available on-site or along nearby streets. *Note: These directions are approximate and based on the GPS coordinates provided. It is recommended to confirm current access and operating hours before visiting, as historic hot springs properties in the area have changed ownership and status over the years.* ## What to Expect Elsinore Hot Springs & Lodge offers a chance to experience one of Southern California's historic geothermal sites. The hot springs in this area typically produce water at warm-to-hot temperatures, making them well-suited for soaking. The lodge setting suggests an established facility rather than a remote backcountry spring, so visitors can generally expect some level of amenities. The surrounding area of Lake Elsinore provides additional attractions, including the lake itself (popular for boating, fishing, and skydiving), as well as hiking trails in the nearby Cleveland National Forest and the Santa Ana Mountains. The region enjoys a warm, semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters, making the hot springs particularly appealing during cooler months. Visitors should be aware that historic hot springs properties in the Lake Elsinore area have undergone various changes in ownership and operation over the years. It is advisable to check current availability, hours, and any entry fees before planning a visit. The GPS coordinates provided (33.6727, -117.3254) should help locate the property accurately.