Two Bunch Palms Hot Springs

## Overview Two Bunch Palms Hot Springs is a natural geothermal hot spring located in the Desert Hot Springs area of Southern California, near the community of Desert Hot Springs in Riverside County. Situated at approximately 33.9457° N, 116.4878° W, this spring sits along the Mission Creek Fault, part of the San Andreas Fault system — a geological feature responsible for the region's remarkable concentration of hot mineral springs. The Desert Hot Springs area has long been celebrated for its naturally heated underground aquifers. The name "Two Bunch Palms" refers to the native California fan palm trees (Washingtonia filifera) that historically clustered around the spring's water source — a classic indicator of underground water in the desert landscape. The area's hot springs have been used for centuries, with the Cahuilla people among the earliest known inhabitants to recognize and utilize the healing properties of these geothermal waters. In the 20th century, Two Bunch Palms gained fame as a secluded resort destination, reportedly frequented by Al Capone in the 1930s as a hideaway. The hot springs in this region are fed by water that percolates deep underground, where it is heated by geothermal energy before rising back to the surface through fractures in the rock. The waters in the Desert Hot Springs area are generally known for their mineral content, which may include lithium, sulfate, and other dissolved minerals, though specific water composition can vary from spring to spring. ## Directions 1. From Interstate 10, take the Palm Drive / Gene Autry Trail exit heading north toward Desert Hot Springs. 2. Continue north on Palm Drive for approximately 4 miles. 3. Turn left (west) onto Two Bunch Palms Trail. 4. The hot spring area is located along Two Bunch Palms Trail. The GPS coordinates (33.9457, -116.4878) can be entered into a navigation app for precise routing. *Note: The Two Bunch Palms area has historically been associated with a private resort. Visitors should verify current public access conditions before visiting.* ## What to Expect The Two Bunch Palms Hot Springs area is set in the stark, beautiful landscape of the high desert, surrounded by creosote bush, sand, and the occasional cluster of native fan palms. The Coachella Valley stretches to the south, with views of the San Jacinto and Santa Rosa mountain ranges providing a dramatic backdrop. The geothermal waters in this part of Desert Hot Springs are typically warm to hot, with temperatures in the broader area ranging from approximately 100°F to over 140°F depending on the specific source. The water has historically been reported to have a clean, mineral-rich quality that visitors find soothing. The desert climate means summers are extremely hot (often exceeding 110°F), making fall through spring the most comfortable seasons to visit. Winters are mild and pleasant, with daytime temperatures in the 60s and 70s°F. Visitors should bring sun protection, plenty of drinking water, and appropriate footwear for desert terrain. Because the Two Bunch Palms name is closely associated with a well-known private resort and spa, visitors seeking the natural spring source should be aware of property boundaries and access restrictions in the area. The surrounding Desert Hot Springs community offers numerous other hot spring experiences, both public and private, for those looking to enjoy the region's geothermal waters.