Franklin Hot Springs

## Overview Franklin Hot Springs is a natural geothermal spring located along Creston Road just east of Paso Robles in San Luis Obispo County, California. Situated in the rolling hills of California's Central Coast wine country, this hot spring draws from the same geothermal activity that has made the Paso Robles area famous for its thermal waters since the mid-1800s. In fact, the name "Paso Robles" itself — short for "El Paso de Robles" (The Pass of the Oaks) — has long been associated with natural hot springs that were used by the Salinan people and later by Spanish missionaries and settlers. Franklin Hot Springs is one of several geothermal features in the region, fed by deep underground heat sources along the Rinconada Fault system. The warm mineral waters that surface here are part of a broader hydrothermal zone that extends beneath much of the Paso Robles basin. Historically, the hot springs of this area were valued for their purported therapeutic and restorative properties, attracting visitors from across California during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The spring is located at approximately 35.5884°N, 120.6422°W, near the address 3015 Creston Road, Paso Robles, CA 93446. ## Directions 1. From downtown **Paso Robles**, head east on **CA-46 East** (also known as Nacimiento Lake Drive/24th Street). 2. At the junction, continue onto **Creston Road** heading southeast. 3. Follow Creston Road for approximately **3 miles** from the edge of town. 4. The spring is located near **3015 Creston Road**, on the right-hand side of the road. 5. Look for a visible pool or marshy area near the roadside — the geothermal features can sometimes be identified by steam or the distinctive mineral smell. *Note: Access conditions and property boundaries may change. Visitors should confirm current access status before visiting, as portions of the surrounding land may be privately owned.* ## What to Expect Franklin Hot Springs is a rustic, undeveloped geothermal site in a pastoral Central Coast setting. The landscape is characterized by golden grass-covered hills, scattered oak trees, and nearby vineyards — quintessential Paso Robles scenery. The spring water is naturally heated by geothermal activity and may have a noticeable sulfur smell, which is common for hot springs in this region. The water temperature can vary but has historically been reported as warm to hot, consistent with other thermal springs in the Paso Robles geothermal zone. The mineral content typically associated with springs in this area includes sulfur, calcium, and other dissolved minerals, giving the water a distinctive character. Because this is an undeveloped site, visitors should expect minimal amenities. There are no restrooms, changing facilities, or marked trails. The terrain is generally flat and accessible from the road, but footwear suitable for uneven ground is recommended. The area can be quite hot during summer months, so bringing sun protection and plenty of drinking water is advisable. As with all natural hot springs, water temperatures and conditions can fluctuate. The spring has historically been visited for soaking, but visitors should test the water temperature carefully before entering. The site is best visited during cooler months when the warm water is most enjoyable and the surrounding hills are green from seasonal rains.