Jacumba Hot Springs is a historic desert town in California’s high desert near the U.S.–Mexico border. It’s best known for its natural springs, which are believed to have healing powers, its rich history, beautiful surrounding nature…and some rumors of paranormal activity.
The rich history
Throughout history, people always occupied this area, most likely attracted by the hot springs. The Kumeyaay peoples are known to have been there before the European settlement. Ranchers occupied in the 19th century, and conflicts arose – the Jacumba Massacre of February 27, 1880, left many dead.
During the 20th century, the area became more and more popular, with the water now filling large public baths. There was a rail service connecting Jacumba to San Diego, the town had a world class hotel, and it overall developed into a popular destination. It wasn’t unusual to spot movie stars here, enjoying a nature escape. Even its population was higher – about 3 times more than today.
Things kept looking up for Jacumba for a while – until Interstate 8 bypassed Jacumba by 2 miles, and other hot springs like Murrieta and Palm Springs gained popularity. Services and business closed-down, and the town went into an economic decline. They even lost famous Jacumba hotel, destroyed in an arson fire in the 1980’s. Later on, a motel managed to acquire rights to the spring and opened a spa. After many renovations and changes in management, today, we have Jacumba Hot Springs Hotel – and so the town was reborn.
Jacumba Hot Springs Hotel
If you’re looking for an unusual escape from San Diego while soaking into beautiful hot springs while enjoying the stunning nature around Anza-Borrego, this is a lovely spot to choose. Jacumba’s newly renovated hotel doesn’t just offer basic rooms and breakfast, but also 3 stunning offsite guest houses: the Casitas, La Ranchita and the Village House. The Casita guest houses even have private mineral spring soaking tubs. And they’re all dog friendly!
Haunted sites and local legends
With its tumultuous history and a long period of time when the city was basically abandoned, it’s no wonder that there are ghostly stories around.
The Desert View Tower has long been a subject of paranormal activities. Both visitors and ghosts hunters have reported unexplained happenings here. The ruins of the abandoned bathhouse have a similar reputation. Therefore, the ruins have hosted events like live recordings of Desert Oracle Radio, where people gather under the stars to share and listen to eerie stories. A third location considered haunted is the Margin House, where ‘unexplained noises and a pervasive sense of unease’ contributed to its reputation.
So, if we’ve peaked your curiosity, give Jacumba a go. Today, you’ll meet all kinds of people here, escaping the city noise. You can always enjoy the beautiful nature, go ghost hunting (if that’s your things), soak into nature’s purest waters, or simply take a break. Extra tip: schedule your trip around a celestial event – the views won’t dissapoint.