Just returned from my second trip to Mercey. Really wonderful, low-key, unpretentious, laid back spot of heaven. We (wife & 2 young kids) practically had the place to ourselves most of the time. I asked the groundskeeper when's the high season and he said, "oh, now." I guess it gets too hot in the summer. The cabins are really cute and clean and reasonably priced. You can rent a campsite too. There is no central soaking tub; rather, they have an array of individual tubs which you fill up for yourself. One area is clothing optional; the other is "public" and includes a nice swimming pool at 85 deg. My only complaint is that the spring water could have been a little hotter (though another reviewer said it was 108 deg?!) There are no cooking facilities, so you have to bring all your own food and equipment. The "scene" there is totally unpretentious and laid back. Not hippy. Not swinger. Not hipster. Just real people keepin' it real. The property is on 160 acres of lovely rolling pasture-land and hills. I want to go back there on my mountain bike! The night sky is just amazingly clear and bright. Plus, you're more than 13 miles away from highway 5, so it's completely silent except for the frogs and occasional coyote. It's conveniently about 2 and 3/4 hours from SF. I'd give it 5 star if: the water were hotter, and the construction on the new buildings was finished. (The groundskeeper tells me they're building a cafe.) read more

I discovered the hot springs via Google Earth. My husband was working in Panoche for the week and we had just committed to a date night every week. This was perfect for what I had in mind. I didn't tell my husband the details until I reached the exit off of hwy 5, then sent him directions via a text message and we met there. The Hot springs water is stored in tanks and pumped to the tubs, do be aware that the water smells of sulfur. I rented one of the 6 or 7 cabins as I do not camp when it is cold. We stayed in Cabin #6 it has an enclosed porch, and is located off from the other cabins, at the base of a hill right next to what they call the bath house. In it are the restrooms with showers, and private tubs as well. Our cabin was alot more private and there is less worry of disturbing other guests as at night , as it is very quiet up there. We arrived after dark which I do not recommend, but the girl who was care taking the place while the owners were away was very helpful in helping me find my way around in the dark. We used the sauna and the clothing optional tubs, my husband and I really enjoyed our stay. When you visit, pack like you will be camping, don't forget your flash lights. Next time i will for sure to bring a lantern as well. Oh and bring your own coffee and a way to heat the water if you stay overnight. There was a small beverage fridge in the office but that is all they have. My husband left very early the next morning for work, I relaxed, took photographs and soaked in the tubs, what a treat it was. If you are high maintenance, don't come here, its very simple and that's what makes it so cool. read more

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We used to enjoy camping here every year atleast a couple of weekends a year, but with their new no pet policy we will not return. Camping without our furry family member is just not camping.... The price is per per person and there really isn't much in the area. Make sure you have everything you need because there won't be any "quick" trips to the store. read more

Fantastic getaway. The pros and cons boil down to the exact same thing: This place is in the middle of nowhere. Pros of being in the middle of nowhere: - STARS! So many stars! - Quiet. So very, very quiet. - Otherworldly. We were definitely not in Kansas at Mercey Hot Springs. Cons of being in the middle of nowhere: - Uh, you're in the middle of nowhere. We stayed in Cabin 5, with a nice, efficient little kitchen, and unfortunately we forgot some of our ingredients to cook meals. The nearest full grocery store was over an hour away (round-trip). - Only a con if you or someone in your party needs lots of stimulation, but you had better be very, very happy with a limited set of activities. Soak. Swim. Look at the stars. Walk or hike around the surrounding hills. Repeat. The facilities were clean and comfortable, the hot springs perfectly rejuvenating, and the staff were helpful and welcoming. We hope to return! read more

So random mini one night camping trip quick hour and a half drive to the middle of nowhere just to soak and relax. We camped on site E5 which I felt was the best site out of all of them. Its the last site that you can drive too. Nobody was next to us and it was a covered site with lots if tree shade. We soaked in the tubs at night and did some stare gazing which in the middle of nowhere was completely dark and gorgeous. I sat in the sauna for a bit. Its big and very clean.... I really wanted to take a shower with some non sulfur water which I couldnt find, the shower water in the restroom smelled worse then the tub waters but it was ok for just one night. Overall they were friendly very accommodating and wouldn't mind coming back and trying a cabin out! read more

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I'm writing this shortly after leaving this heavenly place, so please bear with me if I start ranting nonsensically. I have been to many hot springs in my short life, but Mercey Springs may be the best I've ever experienced. You won't be able to appreciate how blessed we all are that Larry is kind enough to share his property with the public until you actually go there. The Springs are located literally in the middle of nowhere, which is exactly what me and my fiance were looking for. We were wanted somewhere with minimal social interaction, good facilities, non-judgmental staff, and lots of character. Mercey did not disappoint. We arrived early on Saturday after a night of camping at Henry Coe State Park (About an hour north of the springs) looking mildly disheveled and smelling like campfire. After parking in the main lot we noticed quite a few bird watchers, most of which didn't seem to ever use the facilities and disappeared later in the day. Our cabin was #2. The cabins seem to be all very small and simple which was perfectly fine with us. The beds could've been made out of a pile of gravel and we still would've slept like logs in them after our long day of soaking, saunaing and hiking, but I'm pretty sure they were really comfy. Though we would have maybe liked a bit more privacy than the slightly-smaller-than-window-sized semi-sheer curtains afforded, but overall this is no big issue. We used all the spa's facilities except the private indoor tubs which we didn't terribly care about because this was our opportunity to get some sun on our pale pale bodies. The clothing optional area was our favorite because we're big fans of being naked, but the extra deep tubs in the main clothed area made it worth it to put our clothes back on. The sauna was clean, large and pretty much what you'd expect from a sauna. We had way too much fun frolicking in the swimming pool. I already tend to act like a little kid when I'm with my fiance, but we definitely were acting like giddy (quiet!) idiots when we were floating around on the pool noodles. We pretty much didn't see anyone else in the springs when were during the 2 days and one night, and our neighbors kept to themselves. I'm guessing things pick up a lot more during the peak season, but our time was especially peaceful. Thank you Larry! You're awesome! We will be back. P.S.: Your website really needs some work. I got a headache dealing with how the online booking is laid out and operates, some of the tabs seem redundant, and some areas don't look like they've not been updated in a really long time. read more

Wow! This place is a treasure! I went there with a female friend of mine and we had a blast. Larry was so nice and accommodating to us and set us up with Cabin #3 so we could bring our dog. He even said it was okay to tie her up on the other side of the fence while we were enjoying the tubs. And we were 3 hours late getting there due to other distractions along the way (hello Casa de Frutas), but Larry didn't care. He stayed up until midnight to check us in. Anyway this was one of the best hot springs I have ever been to. It's very remote and rustic and no-frills which is how I like it. I also liked how there were only 3 other people staying there (on a Friday night and Saturday morning) so we felt like we had the place to ourselves. The area where it's located is beautiful, too. We spent time naked in the side-by-side tubs staring at each other and the mountains under the full moon. It was so beautiful and quiet and magical! Mercey Hot Springs is such a special place and I will be going back again! Love it! I still can't believe it only costs $110 for the two of us to have a cabin and full use of the springs for a day! read more

Mercey Hot Springs is a nice place to get away for a few days from the Bay Area. It's about 2-3 hour drive. It is dark out there and isolated so it's the perfect place to watch meteor showers like the Perseids. The place is a work in progress with quirks and construction. They are off the grid, so if they are at capacity, you'll experience a black out or two. Their phone is satellite so when calling they may ask you to repeat yourself. If they don't answer, just call back. Currently there are 6 rustic cabins, #5 has a kitchen and #6 has its own patio and has the most privacy. None of these have a private bathroom and they are located near the clothing optional tubs. There are 2 Airstream trailers that sit apart near the open air pavilion where they do yoga on the weekends. If you have the option, go with Airstream #2 since there is camping allowed near #1 and you are separated by a rope and can feel a little guilty about having your own fire and grill. The Airstreams are modern and have a bathroom, kitchen, bed, eating nook, music and a TV. All of these have a maximum occupancy of 2. There is a family cabin that is out by itself that sleeps up to 7 and is the furthest from the hot springs. They have tent and RV camp sites, but there are no individual fire pits. For the most part, the sites have tree coverage, but most are right next to each other. Bring everything you need with you. They have limited supplies they sell there at a premium. A lot of groups come here, especially during the day and they get loud even though it's clearly posted to be quiet and to avoid conversation while in the hot springs. If you prefer quiet, go to the clothing optional area. There is also a warm pool and hot sauna. The disc golf course is random and not set up well if you actually play. In order to have a good time here you have to just go with all the little things that are less than perfect and enjoy the middle of nowhere aspect of it all. read more

My GF found this place on yelp when we were getting tired of driving north from LA. We both thought it was a magical find, not the lap of luxury, but a perfect rustic spot to re-energize and slip into a completely different world! We camped in one of the 5 tent camping spots, we went for a night time soak in their spring fed sulphur tubs, and then hit the sauna to warm up before falling asleep. We did a little pool time and a little soak the next AM, and walked around the grounds. You can tell that it is being slowly revamped, and that it is a labor of love. They just added a couple brand new airstream trailers that you can stay in, and they have little porches with Bbqs, those looked cool, but we brought our tent, so we opted for that. Owner was super accommodating, and really helpful! We will be coming back! read more

Gorgeous, sure, but many things were just not right: -Free wifi advertised, but NO WIFI to be found -There is a grill to cook on - but guess what? THEY SUPPLY NO GRILL TOOLS so you better find a twig. -In the grill hut, unlike the trash area, there is NO OUTDOOR LIGHTING so you better bring a headlamp. -Even though you pay for 4 people, you HAVE TO ASK FOR THE RIGHT NUMBER OF TOWELS. TWICE. -Even though you previously arranged it, you have to ASK TWICE FOR BEDDING. -The cabin heaters are old school steam so BRING EARPLUGS to block out the clanking, OR BE COLD all night. Maybe its the burned out hippies running the place? Hope this can be improved given the price (incl full rate for two little kids). read more

The aggressive bragging about plumbing upgrades were strange to endure after finding that several taps would produce no water after being turned on. The fact that, although the water was run for over thirty minutes, it would not exceed body temperature was even more unpleasant. Couple this with seething, overbearing vibes from the staff, and you have, in my opinion, a place to avoid. read more

Mercey Hot Springs is ideal for when you want to get away from the city, if you time your visit well. It's in a super-remote location where amenities are scarce and you feel close to nature. On the bike ride there from Hollister, I commented that the landscape was desolate. We got there on a Friday evening and had one of the tent sites. It was situated next to the parking lot and Airstream trailers, but it still had a decent amount of privacy, along with a fire ring. Towels were $2 each to rent, and wood was $7.50 for a huge crate. (Joe also brought us some newspaper to help start fires.) Because we were limited in what we could bring on bikes, we also didn't have a cooler or extra water. The employees not only lent us a huge black tub in which we could store our food, but they also brought us two jugs of water ($4 each). Amenities at Mercey are limited and expensive. If you like ice cream and raw milk, you're in luck. For a Friday evening (Valentine's Day), the resort felt quiet. The tubs were great. We used two side-by-side tubs - though one can easily be shared - and, when we got too warm, hopped into the pool to cool off. The temperature of the pool was perfect for that: not cold enough to shock us but just cool enough to be refreshing. The sauna was a nice way to dry off and warm up a bit before heading back to camp to fall to sleep to a chorus of frogs. Saturday we were able to explore the resort in the daylight. It's a small campus, but the bathrooms were still pretty far from our tent site. If you want to be close to bathrooms and don't want to spring for the Airstream, the cabins are the way to go. There were two private bathrooms with showers near the Phoenix lounge and another two in the pool area. The lounge was warm and inviting, and we didn't have a problem accessing WiFi (though it was slow). As a side note, if you think you'll be able to shower off the sulfur smell, think again. ALL of the water at Mercey is mineral spring water and smells like sulfur. There were majestic views of the surrounding hills from trails around the area, but there didn't seem to be much in the way of hiking. We heard gunshots throughout the day, presumably because the resort is adjacent to BLM land. Lots of people showed up on Saturday, and it seems that when the resort is at capacity it may be hard to get a tub. We ended up in the clothing-optional area during the day (it was deserted) but were able to get back into the regular tubs next to the pool at night. If we go back, we'll probably aim for mid-week instead of the weekend so we don't have to worry about not having access to the tubs. After all, those are the main attraction! Overall, it was a great experience, and I'd definitely recommend it for a romantic getaway. read more

I stayed at Mercey Hot Springs several months ago and had a wonderful time. While the location and facilities are beautiful, this review is primarily for Justin, the resident Body Worker and his massage program. Justin was able to squeeze me in last minute for an hour long massage (which was greatly appreciated). His technique is very different from any other massage I've gotten - definitely not the type of masseuse who just goes through the motions. He really paid attention to the way each of my muscles were working and tailored the massage to what would help my body relax the most. I can easily say it's the best massage I've ever had and plan on booking another one next time I'm back at Mercey. Thanks again Mercey Hot Springs and Justin for providing a comfortable, relaxing evening! read more

This is one of my favorite places on earth. It is very calm and peaceful, and the water is wonderful, and the air quality is spectacular (hard to believe considering that it is so close to the agricultural farming on I-5, but true), and it has an amazing history to it. The owners have done an remarkable job bringing this place back to life. It is incredibly difficult to run a place like this totally off the grid, and so the fact that they have amenities like electricity at the campsites as well as Wi-Fi throughout is really remarkable. It's a little expensive for camping on a per-person basis, but there are few other experiences out there like this one. And the cabins are a joy and very reasonably priced. What's really remarkable is that this is a great place to camp year round. Even though it seems like it should be too hot in the summer (when the temperature often hits over 100 during the day), it's really fine. Cooling down in the tubs is a great way to recover from the heat, and the nighttime temperatures (around 70 degrees) are very good for sleeping. I think the new no-pets policy is a good one. This is a scrupulously maintained facility, and not everyone cleans up after their pets the way that they should. The challenge in going here is that you have to bring your own food, because there are no restaurants anywhere nearby. But that is a small inconvenience considering the unique benefits of this spot. Highly recommended. I wish I were there right now. read more

My boyfriend and I went for his birthday and it was great little place. Definitely will good again

Leave your expectations at the entry. Don't go there expecting a five-star luxury resort.

Its a long beautiful drive to get there. Swimming pool, porcelain tubs you can fill with mineral water. Plenty of hiking areas. We went for the day. Very peaceful. Our only issue was on our picnic for lunch. A elder European woman interrupted our picnic and wanted my friend to move her car. She explained that she was recovering from a injury and asked and had got permission when we checked in to park close and was directed to park there. The woman just stood there. We explained we all have come a long way and put a-lot of preparation in our meal, we would move it after our meal. It was obvious the five of us were in the middle of an Elaborate meal, she could have waited until we were done. We felt she was unnecessarily rude. The place was pretty empty. This was the last place we expected any drama. Other than that, it was a peaceful, relaxing experience. read more

The facilities are nice enough but the owner was super rude and was trying to sneak a peek in the clothing optional area. The water wasn't very hot and the tubs were rusty. If he weren't there I'd probably go back. read more

Been to this spot a few times now. I definitely recommend it. We're thinking about planning a camping trip for the future. Pros- expansive grounds, lots of space, lots of amenities, not to far to travel to from South Bay in one day. Cons- we got lost the first time we went and called for directions and the woman we spoke with lacked knowledge of street names/or how to get there from Paicines area. **if you're coming from Hollister/Paicines area the road is called Panoche Rd as well as J-1. It's better labeled for Panoche Rd. NOT J-1. read more

Decided to break up my drive back from SF to LA with a stop in a dark sky area (I enjoy seeing the Milky Way and using a telescope... and hot tubs!). I arrived late... around 10:30 pm, so I had to do after-hours check in. The resort had a very quiet, peaceful vibe to it. After sleeping I woke up and used the private outdoor tubs while reading. The swimming pool was nice and warm, but not too hot. What I liked best: the off-grid, quiet experience. It's so hard to find a place that does not have bright lights, giant flat-screens with sports and their music system on full blast. I'm so glad somewhere is providing this kind of experience. If you're someone who wants that kind of experience, then please go to the 99.9% of businesses that cater to it... don't complain about this one! This place is figuratively and literally off the grid: it's solar powered! There are a few snacks, drinks and coffee available in the registration building, but you'll want to BYO if you want more than that. The water comes out of the ground warm/hot... seemed perfect to me, but it did seem cooler than some other hot tubs I've been in. As the water here is high in some minerals and salt, you'll need your own fresh water (or to buy bottled water from them) to drink. The price here for a cabin is a little high, but it's not cheap to run an off-grid business, so it's probably a fair fare! The cabin I rented did not have a kitchen or tub (I think some others do)... just a bed. If you're someone who has to use the restroom in the night you'll have a short walk to do (I usually have to do so more than once!). I think I'll tent camp here next time to save a little $ but still enjoy the wonderful place. The only real complaint I have is that there were (necessarily) a few lights left on at night. As they're in a wonderful dark sky environment (even located close to the DARC Star Observatory), it would be a win-win situation if they used dark-sky compliant lighting at night. Such lights are slightly red-tinted, providing a warm glow similar to candle-light; they also are angled downward in a way that avoids all light pollution, making the spectacular sky even better. Finally, such lights are often energy-star rated, so they'd put very little strain on the resorts solar power. read more

I have had three experiences at Mercy Hot Springs over a 15-year period. I feel I can give a true review. They are dishonest, cheap and always trying to squeeze the most out of their guests by giving the least. They come-off like someone is cheating or screwing them, so they troll around giving off a very negative vibe. Esalen the best! Harbin we miss you, Orr awesome, all through new Mexico, hot springs. Enough is enough with Mercy Hot Springs. The only reason anyone is there is because Harbin Burned down. Fifteen years ago I had a friend in L.A. it seemed like a great place to meet. We stayed in one of their cabins. Back then I think it was around $150 a night, they are now $250 a night. No bathroom, no kitchen, not even a tiny fridge. But the worst part was, the pool was closed for renovation! Upon booking the owner never told us. There were beaten-up old tubs at the top that looked like a breeding ground for some kind of bio-germ warfare. We stayed the night but didn't even go in the tubs. When we complained, she gave me a sob story about just buying the property. I told her she should have been honest about the pool being closed when I originally booked it. Dishonest, cheap and always trying to squeeze their guest. Hot Springs often have communal kitchens. If you stay at Mercy in their airstreams for $350 a night! you might get a fridge but it only sleeps two. If you like cooking and want to chill, there is nowhere for you to store your food. If you camp for $60 a night per person, no fridge for food storage. You need to hike water in. Remember you cannot drink the water! They are out of their minds for what they charge. And what I realized over a 15-yr period, is that they could get a communal fridge, they don't want to pay for the electricity. A year-ago I booked the walkabout house (their one house on the property) for my birthday with another family. I don't want to haul water in, ice, coolers. I got that house for ease. $400 a night for 4 people, then $50 a person after that--even babies. The part I find hilarious, is that the owners are such penny pinching thieves that they will only give you 4 towels, but they won't forget to charge you for the 2 1/2-year-old baby, the 5th person that they won't squeeze out a towel for. There was hand soap in the bathroom, it was so watered down, why even fake to provide it? The friend who was with me is a travel writer, they have been everywhere, small, large. Her husband nearly had a heart attack when he saw what he was getting for $500 a night. Again my bday, the last at Mercy. They probably haven't rented the walkabout house since I did last year. Because of their prices, they pretty much only get campers. I had been ignoring a pain in the belly. When we got there, I realized something was odd and thought I should be looked a before being that isolated. We immediately turned around and went to the hospital in town. I ended-up spending 5-hours there, but I received more smiles and kindness in the waiting room than I did from the owners of Mercy. I Lost my entire first day at the spring and was worried about my friend and his daughter showing-up and doing something wrong, not going to office, who knows, the female owner, her husband and co-worker Jersey are like paranoid gastapo. My husband went back to the spring to make sure ours friends had no problems. Luckily I made it back by 8pm. We ate something then went to the pools. I think it said no kids after 9pm. My 11-yr-old just spent 5-hours at a hospital with me, I brought this group, we were going in the water. Apparently the pool is closed to EVERYONE at 9pm! I thought it was just children--everyone! Aren't you there for the water? The female owner came barreling out to kick us out. I told her that we missed the whole day and for $900 for the two nights, we were going in the water. The following day pleasant. Then Sunday, our last day, Jersey, I believe he is the female owner's family member decided to latch-on and just harass my husband. He obliterated and ruined our last day. Something with the sticker on the car, then he actually accused him of sneaking people into the house to stay with us. My husband got me out of the pool to deal with the office. He couldn't shake that guy off of him. To wrap-up: The vibe of the ownership-- cheap, paranoid, kinda just unhappy. The houses at Orr are the same price and magnificent, massive wooden multiple story houses built into the hillside. I imagine whatever Harbin is rebuilding will be even more beautiful than before. There are too many great places to go. Maybe mercy works for a $35 half day pass for people coming over from Hollister and santa Cruz. Other than that, they need to get real about what they offer. read more

Mercey is located just off of I-5. Firebaugh is not far from the San Luis Reservoir. It is probably the closest hot spring to Silicon Valley. The only closer would be Gilroy Hot Springs. However, they are no longer open. Mercey has added some new and upgraded out door tubs. The water is very clean. This place is a must in the spring! I've posted some pictures of the drive on my blog at http://hotspringofcalifornia.blogspot.com. Lastly, no glass at the pool! Bring your own plastic containers and water. This is a good rule. THJ read more

I had to land my C140 on a very nice summer day at the dirt strip of the resort (temporarily high oil temp). The resort is fabulous: an oasis in the middle of the Californian desert! Nice hiking trails next to the resort, very friendly owners, a great pool and hot tubs make a perfect day!!! Looking forward to being back soon, this resort is definitely an insider's tip. read more

2011-02-19 thru 21: Great Presidents Day Weekend!!!! I have been coming here now for eight years and have been lucky to see all the improvements being done. I always camp when I come here but there are also 6 cabins that are available, each offering different amenities. The upper tubs are clothing optional and the most peaceful due to no kids allowed. My favorite time is early morning and way late at night when the stargazing is AmaZing! Down below are more outdoor tubs that are nice for couples that are set above the naturally heated pool. There is a building here at the pool site that houses the sauna and a bath/shower room on both sides. Since I was able to see this being built I appreciate the craftsmanship that has gone into this place. Take a look up in the old bath house (more showers and restrooms, and private tubs for rent) at the entrance floor; It is a lizard crafted of mosaic tile, beautiful. There are plans for a community kitchen and restaurant. For now be sure to bring all your own food and beverages (including drinking water) because there is nothing nearby. There is a frisbee golf course and plenty of hiking on the property with adjacent opportunities: Panoche Hills BLM. There are rare owls on the property and you will for sure see lots of rabbits and large raptors. I have been lucky enough one night to be sitting in the upper tubs at 2am and hear coyotes singing for over an hour: awesome! I usually approach from I-5 when I come here in my RV and take the scenic route from Hollister when in my 4x4 pickup. This place is all about relaxation so when coming here know that will be a large part of the day with some walks mixed in to build a thirst and appetite and tire the body just enough to crave another round of swimming, tubing and saunaing. Enjoy and let others enjoy; this is a peaceful place and quiet is enforced by the proprietor, Larry. read more

I like Mercey Hot Springs very much. I go several times a year and have been doing so for a long time. I don't particularly like Yelp, becuase it is the perfect venue for unpleasant people to be nasty. Here's a thought; if you don't like a place, just don't go back. Re-hashing your terrible time at Mercey on Yelp is about as interesting to me as hearing about your last root canal. I for one don't like Harbins Hot Springs and I don't like Orrs Hot Springs either. Tried'em both and won't go back. read more

My wife and I spent two nights in one of the new airstream trailers last week. A very luxurious way to camp!! It is like having your own small suite in a hotel, with a kitchenette. The airstream was very comfortable and we cooked all of our meals there and of course slept in the comfortable queen size bed. We enjoyed the ability to walk out the door and soak in the wonderful hot water any time we chose (night time is great!!).... While we were at Mercey, there were a fair number of people but we always found it to be quiet and pleasant. The folks running the place were very nice and we will definitely go again. We live in the Bay Area and felt like we were hundreds of miles away - a real vacation. Just the intense quiet is relaxing.. For those that discuss noise, yes at times, there are children who make a bit of noise, but nothing outrageous while we were there. Most of the time is was completely quiet and there were only a couple of people soaking and they were all quiet. Certainly not something to be worried about unless the place is packed for some reason and there are children that are out of control. None of these issues were present for us and we found the entire experience to be relaxing, a fun and different get away, and even though just two days - it was a great getaway.. we truly felt we were in a different world from our normal loud and fast moving lives.. Facilities are spotless and the water is a really nice hot, but not too hot temperature in the soaking tubs. The large pool is only warm and my not be of interest to those "hard core" hot stream soakers.. The dry sauna is also very nice. read more

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I just spent 24 hours at the hot springs with a good friend of mine- it was WONDERFUL! So quiet & removed from other civilization- dark starry skies, hooting owls, big indiviual tubs and an awesome sauna. The place is super rustic so be sure to bring your own food & water (you can drink their water but it's super minerally). And best of all, there were very few other people there- a true gem! read more

Still the best place on earth for relaxing and enjoying a good soak in one on the hot tubs or getting a massage or doing yoga love this place so relaxing. The staff are so friendly and take care of any of your needs. I'll be back again and again read more

Meeting with friends, we found this delightful place only 2 hours away from San Jose! We rented the two bedroom house ($400/night, which includes all amenities of the spa) for the weekend. It's called "The Walk-About", and is fully appointed with a nice kitchen, plenty of space, deck, and privacy. And walk-about we did, taking lovely walks over the dry mountain tops whenever we weren't laying about in hot water. Haven't been so relaxed in years, partly because of the water and the quiet, and partly the lack of internet and cell phone coverage! No matter whether you are camping or glamping, be sure to take everything you need, because you are in a remote area. Especially your food, because although they have a communal kitchen and cafe planned, that hasn't happened yet. The owners have rules about the maximum number of people who can stay in any dwelling, and it has the (probably desired) effect of making the place quieter and more low-key. Unlike some other hot springs we've visited, there was no hint of sexual cruising or partying. And the surrounding desert-like area, while appearing barren at first, was filled with wildlife and habitat from cottontails and jackrabbits to lizards, frogs and birds of many species. Walking in the early morning was particularly beautiful for this horticulturist -- many species of native bulbs were blooming, even though we had to hunt for them. We will definitely go back. Deva and Terra read more

This is not a good place to bring children. First off its a clothing optional hot springs so right there that should tell you that it may not be the best idea to have children here. There are many places where children are not welcome. While I was there I observed several hazards to children as well, such as pools that are not gated, solar panels and electrical gear that is not child safe, not to mention that you have to bring all your own water. This place is great for adults but its just not for kids. Follow my advice and have a relaxing weekend here for adults... leave the kids at home, you'll thank me later! read more

Rustic and remote but also historic and charming. I was on a drive south and just past Hollister I turned left at Paicines and headed for Panoche. This was my not so short cut from San Jose to Palm Desert. At least I by passed a lot of traffic. Mercey Hot Springs is a in the hills about 10 miles or so from I5. The place is a throw back to the1800s. But it has been kept up and the place is in decent shape. If you are really looking to get away from it all this is the place. Nothing around for miles. Just the little cabins and the springs. read more

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We stayed here for one night in May while on a road trip towards Oregon. No TV. No wifi. Bathroom wasn't in the room it was a short little walk outside. This place is delightful really. It was so peaceful and quiet. Granted it was a Monday night and it seems we had the place to ourselves. It's a bit like camping but with a very simple cabin to sleep in (and a bed instead of a sleeping bag, hallelujah). This isn't a fancy place and it's not meant to be. If you want to get away and relax it's great. The hot tubs filled with mineral water. You adjust the temps. There's a pool. A sauna. Some light hiking trails. And when you go to the bathroom at night the stars are amazing. I had no idea there were quite so many stars up there. And there are rabbits everywhere. Saw a coyote. Dozens of rabbits from jumbo to itty bitty. Funny squirrels who seem to just want lay in the dirt smelling flowers. And you can hear the cattle across the road. I would come back again. The owner was really nice and friendly. There is a mini sort of general store where you check-in and they had organic half and half. Organic gluten free crackers. Organic tea. And some ice cream. Nice to find that out in the middle of nowhere. read more

I visited yesterday with my friend. We both remarked that there have been many upgrades to the property. The best upgrade of them all was being greeted by a man named Rick at the front counter. He was jovial had eye contact he smiled and he even shook our hands. He asked our names and he seem like he was very happy to see us and made sure we knew it. I was wonderful. We felt greeted and valued like you shouldn't feel when somebody knows about customer service with a smile. Now you might think I'm laying this on a little too thick. We wanted the owners to know that there's people that work there avoid eye contact with little or no smile. They say as little as possible to get through the transaction. And there was no line if customers behind us. That is ok. Not everyone is really social. But it is pretty noticeable. The best upgrade, besides the new cabins and paint job, is Rick. We commend the owner for making that decision. The one star less is because the clothing optional area tubs include a few that have been painted with latex paint white. Now they're peeling so when you're soaking in those tubs you have specs of white paint flooring on top of your water. Before you prepare to get into one of those tubs, check for the white paint and pick another if you see one. read more

My wife, nine-year-old son, and I just spent the weekend here, and we loved it! We will definitely come back and have talked about making it an annual trip. The best part is how relaxing it is. The amenities are nice and well kept, and the owners successfully keep it very quiet and disruption-free, yet it is very laid back. Management is in the background. You are free to use any part of the facilities (except for the upper, nekkid tubs if you are staying in the campground instead of the cabins) at any time of the day or night. Despite the close proximity of the campsites to one another we were not disturbed by noise or loud conversation from any of our neighbors. The owner's marauding dog mentioned in another review was not an issue. I felt like the customer service was great, in contrast to a couple of the other posters. They gave us a large box of fire wood but only charged us for a small box, and they brought out some of their Indian artifacts found on the property and showed them to us. All of the activities offered are enough to keep you occupied for at least 3 days. We spent two days and didn't even do the frisbee golf, hiking or biking. Just swimming, soaking, going in the sauna and exploring the grounds were plenty of diversion for us. This is actually great for kids. There were a number of families , and all of the kids, ours included, seemed to be having a very good time. Toddler age would probably be the only age that it wouldn't be wise to bring, due to their short attention spans, incessant desire to be in motion, and presence of water everywhere. The water is definitely not what you would want to drink, but they sell water for $4/gal. in the office. read more

My boyfriend and I visited on a Sunday night. Larry and Grazyna, the owners were wonderful- warm and welcoming. The cabins are decorated with simple and becoming decor. The baths are soothing and simple. The grounds are well-kept and clean... We loved our stay. The baths for hours, drying off in the hot sauna, and sleeping with wind in the trees was amazing. Our breakfast walk with coffee and views a beautiful start to the day. read more

I wish I could give this place ZERO stars. I've been to this place under previous management and loved it. I went yesterday and my boyfriend and I (bi-racial) have never experienced the rude and unwelcomeness that was shown to us. I cannot describe how unsafe we felt. The place is clean, OVERPRICED, and felt like we were going to be harassed throughout our stay. Constant dirty looks, ignorned when asking a question, and asked me multiple times when waiting for our key to the airstream if I was looking for the restroom; like why would we drive that far in for a restroom and the ONLY people waiting for a reserved room, meaning no other people in or around registration office. Made it very clear we were not welcome there by other guests and definitely by the staff; staff that seemed to be the owner and mother. This place is disgusting and until it is again under new ownership we will NEVER return. What a waste of $350! read more

Was excited to book an RV site, as we're driving through soon and needed a spot to stay along I-5. Not a lot of great options in the area. This looked great with hot springs, but they don't allow dogs anymore. So sad! read more

Worst hot springs management ever, and I've been going to hot springs in California for many decades! Apparently Mercey changed management/owners a few years back and each time I've been there, any interaction with them has been negative. This time, we parked in a shady spot near the office temporarily to register. They came out and made us move the car less than 10 yard because we were in RV parking (there were no RVs). Then they charged us $35 rather than the $30 it states on their site. We had a car packed with camping gear and in order to get food from our coolers we had to pull out half the contents of the car. We planned to have a quick bite since we were not allowed drive the coolers to the picnic area near the bathing area. We sat at a picnic table and the management again came out and said we couldn't sit there because it was reserved for RVs (although there were none in sight.) It was clear that we didn't have easy access to the coolers and that we'd pulled everything out. I told them we would be done in less than 5 minutes but they still made us stop eating and pack up. Their brochure says there is a $200 fine to burn incense in the cabins. WTF!!!! The people working there were unfriendly and inhospitable, whereas the former management was the opposite. Most inappropriate for a hot springs, which usually has a laid back welcoming vibe. Such a shame that a**holes are running the place now. read more

Visited with my wife in October 2017 and January 2018. We came for a 1/2 day visit (four hours). Make sure to pack a good lunch and snacks (bring water!), as there are very few amenities (you can purchase water/Gatorade, and a few snack items). The grounds are quite well kept , and the campsites look nice (though fairly close together). We only used the outdoor tubs, pool, and a sauna. The baths, pool, and sauna are in fine condition. Don't expect a high end mineral spa as in Calistoga or Paso. But if your looking for the benefits of a mineral spa for a good price, it's not a bad place. I did not stay in the cabin, nor did I use the private bath or clothing optional areas. So I cannot comment on those. It was quite quiet on both of our visits. read more

My heart lives here! Love the water, the beautiful family that has created this place, the heritage, the stars! Oh mannnnnn! I could write a book explaining what this beautiful hot springs is all about! Like the birds in the area, it is an oasis that allows me to be me! It has power of renewal and nourishment. I am so thankful to Larry and his dear family for their committed vision. The entire retreat runs on solar! He has reused the old stone creating new with old! The water is toxin taking and under the stars its intoxicating! Wish I was there right now! read more

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