I’m going to let you in on a little secret about a hidden pond but first you have to promise not to tell anyone.  Ok, do you promise?  Good!  Now, I’m going to hold you to it because if you tell, then everyone will start coming and it will totally ruin the whole ambiance of the place.

In Paso Robles there is a place that only locals and only a few of the locals know about and go to.  The place is called Franklin Hotspings. 

The Pond

It is kinda hidden out on the back roads.  There is a sign but it is pretty old and not all that easy to read, especially at night.  Franklin Hotsprings is a large (swimming pool sized) natural hot sulphur spring pool or pond.    So yeah, it does have that whole sulpher smell going on.  But let me tell you when your body is aching, the smell is worth a little annoying stinkiness. 

To get there, take Niblick Road in Paso Robles east to Creston Road.  Take a right on Creston Road and follow it out until you see the sign on the right hand side of the road and turn right…  Now if those directions are not some small town type of directions, I don’t know what is.  BUT finding the ponds is half the fun of the whole thing (I can’t make it too easy on you just in case you decide to tell someone the secret)… 

There is a $7 fee for adults and $5 fee for children to get in.  There is more to do than soak if you so choose, you can boat, fish, play paintball, bar-b-que.  The fee allows you stay as long as you want to and includes boating, fishing, and enjoying the mineral hot spring. It does not include Paintball activitites.  Being a small town, there are times when you show up and no one emerges to take your money.  It works on the honor system - just leave your money in the can.

I just go to soak and relax.  There are about 8 pipes hooked up overhead that blast the hot water down onto your back, giving you a hot water, pounding massage. 

Pounding water pipes

Usually there are water weinies available to float on (or you can bring your own).  There is even a hot tub off to the side for those that want a little more privacy.  There is a steam room that sometimes works and sometimes doesn’t.  Bathrooms and changing rooms are being built.  The owners are working on slowing fixing it up but expect it to be rustic and come prepared - that way you won’t be disappointed.

Some people claim the beauty benefits of the mud at the bottom of the pool.   They dive down and bring up this slimey, gooey mud and put it on their face.  I have to admit I have tried it and it feels really good.  However, once I saw it in the daylight, I just couldn’t bring myself to do it again.  But if you are adventursome or just don’t care - try it.

The best time to head out there is after dark.  Gazing at the millions of stars in the sky while floating around in warm water in the quiet of the evening, just doesn’t get any better! 

Remember, you promised not to tell!!  Let me know when you are headed out there and I may just drive up from Atascadero to join you!!