Harbin Hot Springs (Northern California): FAQs For a First Time Visitor

If you’re looking to soak in some natural hot springs, Harbin Hot Springs is the place for you!

With its rustic and relaxing atmosphere, this spot is perfect for a scenic getaway.

This article will provide some of the most frequently asked questions and answers about Harbin Hot Springs to help you plan your visit.

Where is Harbin Hot Springs, and How Do I Get There?

Harbin Hot Springs is one of California’s oldest, largest, and most popular hot springs resorts.

It is located about 2 hours north of San Francisco in the wine country of Middletown, California, in the Sierra Nevada foothills.

The best way to get there is by car.

There are two main routes you can take- either from Sacramento (which will take around 2.5 hours) or from San Francisco (which will take approximately 3 hours).

The main road leading to Harbin Hot Springs is narrow and windy, so please drive cautiously and be cautious of animals crossing the road.

What Should I Bring to Harbin Hot Springs?

When packing for your trip to Harbin Hot Springs, be sure to bring layers of clothing as the temperature can vary greatly depending on whether you’re in the sun or shade.

Many visitors recommend bringing a bathing suit, sunscreen, a towel, and water shoes.

Anything you would bring on a standard camping trip should suffice.

What Items Are Not Allowed At Harbin Hot Springs?

While you can bring a wide array of things with you, some items are not allowed on the premises.

These include but are not limited to illegal drugs, weapons of any kind, pets, candles, phones, tablets, laptops, and digital cameras.

If you must bring any electronics, be sure to keep them in your car as they are not allowed in the pools or common areas.

Is Harbin Hot Springs Pet-Friendly?

Unfortunately, Harbin Hot Springs is not a pet-friendly facility.

Only service animals are allowed on the premises.

Guests traveling with a service animal should bring proper documentation with them.

Is Clothing Optional at Harbin Hot Springs?

Yes, Harbin Hot Springs is a clothing-optional resort.

The clothing-optional pools and sections of the resort follow the tradition of Japanese, Native American, and European hot springs, which have been used for centuries for their health and wellness benefits.

However, nudity is only allowed in certain areas, such as the pools, saunas, and sundecks.

Did Harbin Hot Springs Burn Down?

In 2015, the resort was ravaged by the Valley Fire that burned down a large portion of Middletown and over 30 buildings in Harbin.

However, the hot springs themselves were not affected, and the resort has since been rebuilt.

Harbin Hot Springs remains a beautiful and serene place to visit despite the destruction.

So if you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, be sure to add it to your list!

Is There Wi-Fi in Harbin Hot Springs?

There is no Wi-Fi connection in the Harbin Hot Springs resort, as no phones, photography, or electronics are allowed.

If guests need to use Wi-Fi or make a phone call, a Wi-Fi hotspot is located near the Reception Office in the temporary parking lot.

Electronics may also be used near the Dancing Bear Café food area.

Is there Food at or Near Harbin Hot Springs?

Yes, there is food available at Harbin Hot Springs.

The Dancing Bear Café, located near the main parking lot, serves a variety of healthy and delicious meals.

There is also a snack bar located near the pools.

Middletown has several restaurants with full kitchen service close to the resort for guests looking for something more substantial or a restaurant to go out to dinner.

Guests are also welcome to bring their own food, as long as it is stored safely in a cooler in their vehicles.

What is there to do at Harbin Hot Springs?

Aside from relaxing in the pools and soaking up the stunning views, guests can enjoy a variety of activities at Harbin Hot Springs.

These include hiking on the trails located on the property, horseback riding, yoga classes, massages, and Reiki healing sessions.

The resort also hosts various events throughout the year, such as live music and dance performances, art shows, and workshops.

There is something for everyone at Harbin Hot Springs!

Is There Camping at Harbin Hot Springs?

Yes, there is camping available at Harbin Hot Springs.

The resort has RV sites and tent sites located on the property.

Guests can also stay in one of the cabins or yurts.

Reservations are required for all campsites and accommodations.

Membership is also required to reserve a campsite, caravan, or cottage rental.

Prices for these memberships vary depending on if you choose an annual or lifetime plan.

What is the Weather like at Harbin Hot Springs?

The weather at Harbin Hot Springs can vary depending on the time of year.

In the summer, the average temperature is around 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

The resort is located in a valley, so it can be quite hot during the day.

However, the pools are generally cooler than the air temperature.

The temperatures can drop significantly at night, so it is advised to bring a sweater or light jacket.

In the winter, the average temperature is around 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

The resort does not close down in the winter, but some of the pools and amenities may be unavailable due to the weather conditions.

It is always good to check the weather forecast before heading to Harbin Hot Springs.

What is the Check-In Time at Harbin Hot Springs?

The check-in time for the resort will vary depending on what type of visit you reserve.

Day passes provide six hours of access to the resort, with check-in times ranging from 9 AM to 8 PM.

Guests will be allowed on the property for six hours after checking in or until midnight.

Guests with reservations will receive specific information regarding check-in when they book their stay.

Typically, guests can check-in for their 24-hour stay at any time that the Reception Office is open.

If guests arrive after hours, a self-serve kiosk is available for check-in.

If you’re looking to visit Harbin Hot Springs in Northern California, it’s important to research and plan ahead to make the most of your trip.

This FAQ has information on what to expect during your visit, from the weather and check-in times to food and activities.

With this knowledge, you can relax and enjoy your time at Harbin Hot Springs!