River Oaks Hot Springs Spa

## Overview River Oaks Hot Springs Spa is a hot spring destination located in the rolling hills of San Luis Obispo County, California, near the community of Paso Robles. Situated at approximately 35.655°N, 120.684°W, this spring lies in a region with a long and storied history of geothermal activity. The Paso Robles area — whose full Spanish name, "El Paso de Robles," means "The Pass of the Oaks" — has been known for its natural hot springs for centuries. Indigenous Salinan people are believed to have used the thermal waters of this region long before European settlement, and by the late 1800s, Paso Robles had become a popular health resort destination, drawing visitors who sought the reputed therapeutic benefits of its mineral-rich hot springs. River Oaks Hot Springs Spa carries on this tradition, offering visitors access to naturally heated geothermal water in a spa setting. The hot springs in this part of California are fed by deep geothermal systems associated with the regional fault geology, which heats groundwater as it circulates through fractured rock. The mineral content of the water in the greater Paso Robles hot springs area has historically been noted for containing sulfur and other dissolved minerals, which visitors have long associated with relaxation and skin-soothing properties. ## Directions 1. From the city of Paso Robles, head west on State Route 46 (SR-46 West) toward the Pacific Coast. 2. The spring spa is located in the general vicinity of the River Oaks area, west of downtown Paso Robles, at GPS coordinates **35.6550, -120.6836**. 3. Use the GPS coordinates for precise navigation, as the location is situated in a rural stretch of the oak-studded hills west of town. 4. Look for signage along the route as you approach the area. *Note: These directions are based on the GPS coordinates provided and general knowledge of the area. Visitors are encouraged to confirm the exact route and any access details before making the trip.* ## What to Expect Visitors to River Oaks Hot Springs Spa can expect a hot spring experience set amid the scenic oak-covered hillsides of western San Luis Obispo County. The landscape is characterized by golden rolling grasslands dotted with mature valley oaks — a quintessentially Central California setting that adds to the relaxing atmosphere. As a spa facility, the site is likely to offer soaking tubs or pools filled with naturally heated geothermal water. The hot springs in the Paso Robles region typically produce water at elevated temperatures, making them ideal for soaking. The mineral content of the water has historically been reported to have a slight sulfuric quality, which many visitors find pleasant and associate with therapeutic benefits. The area experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures can exceed 100°F, making a warm soak more appealing during cooler months or in the evening. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather for a visit. Because this is a spa setting rather than a wilderness spring, visitors should check ahead for hours of operation, reservation requirements, and any fees. The surrounding Paso Robles area is also well known for its wine country, offering plenty of additional activities for those planning a longer visit.