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Warner Springs Ranch
Category: Event Planning & Services Hotels Hotels & Travel Hotels Hotels [Edit]
31652 Hwy 79Warner Springs, CA 92086
(760) 782-4200
- Price Range:
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$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
31 reviews for Warner Springs Ranch
Review Highlights
"The hot pool was dangerously hot for little ones."
(in 9 reviews)
"They also have saunas, horseback riding, golf, tennis..."
(in 7 reviews)
"overall it was quiet and had a nice golf course."
(in 4 reviews)
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31 reviews in English
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Review from PJ P.
Ojai, CA
12/29/2011
We went as a family of six during the Christmas break in 2011. I'm specifying the date because we noticed a sign indicating an imminent change in ownership, which could render my impressions moot for future readers.
WHAT I LIKED:
* The hot pool with the steam swirling up into the cold December night air. The kids all enjoyed plunging into the cold pool and then quickly immersing into the hot pool (I was too chicken!). There's also a sauna in the proximity of the hot pool, and showers to rinse off the sulphury water.
* The cabin was very clean and spacious, with two queens and a twin bed. Although it shared a wall with another living area, we didn't hear that family at all.
* There were two big fireplaces and a wood stove in the bar area that were kept blazing, and they weren't the fake gas-prompted fires but the old-school real wood fires.
* There's plenty to do: we took a hike in the hills on a sparkling cool December morning, ate lunch outdoors on picnic in an area where a family or clan could play soccer, bocce, or softball, played ping pong, tennis, shuffleboard, billiards, and soaked multiple times in the hot pools. There are rooms where folks could read or play cards or board games. There's a place with two computers where I checked my email in the morning.
* It's close to a casino, where my adult kids had a ton of fun playing blackjack and playing the slots, which we had not done before. Lots of laughs there. And the dinner was good and moderately priced there, too.
* The dinner that we had at the lodge was very good: burgers with great onion rings and sweet potato fries, and a unique dish called a "squealer" I think that was sort of a twice-cooked potato. The bar area is in an old part of the lodge, with skillfully-rendered murals and a very authentically historic feel to the space.
* There was a piano in the big room.
* Generally, the place has an air of bygone days that really appeals to me. It's not glitzy and pretensious and "modern" -- and that's what I like. But admittedly that's not what others look for in a resort getaway.
* Warner Springs is in the "middle of nowhere" -- that's just perfect if you're seeking a quiet experience.
WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE:
* The roads were not well lit for nighttime walking, with no sidewalks. That could be especially dangerous for smaller children walking to the lodge to watch television,play ping pong, etc.
* The shuffleboard (!) court had a big crack in it, and the lines hadn't been painted in some time, and the poles both had bends and twists in them. It wouldn't cost much to fix two of these three things.
* The complimentary coffee at the lodge, while welcome, is mediocre, and offered only in the morning. Complimentary black tea is offered throughout the day.
* I paid a surcharge for a room with a fireplace -- but then had to buy firewood (for $7) to use in that fireplace. It seems to me that the wood should be provided by the resort for free.
* The little market/restaurant across the street from the lodge is inconvenient for breakfast and lunch, had inconvenient hours, and was too expensive for what was offered. And because the Warner Springs is "in the middle of nowhere", if you need something after the market is closed (e.g. my son needed some Tylenol), you're pretty much out of luck.
* Some of the local attractions -- I'm remembering the Temecula wineries -- were closed on Tuesdays, when we were at Warner Springs. And the hot pool was closed on Tuesday mornings for draining and re-filling, so it wasn't possible for us to do a morning soak before we left.
WHAT I WOULD BRING WHEN I COME AGAIN
* Robes for exiting the hot pool and walking back to the cabin.
* Flashlights for walking back to the cabin at night.
* A way to cook meals (e.g. a Coleman camp stove) on the porch of the cabin, as other more experienced visitors did. And generally more breakfast and lunch-type foods so we could enjoy the activities on the site without having to break for an expensive and time-robbing time in a restaurant. We did bring a coffee-maker and some ground coffee.
* I would avoid reserving the Warner Hot Springs on Tuesdays, for the above reasons.
* Firewood -- see above.
* Make sure the vehicle is gassed up -- remember the part about being in the middle of the country -- , and that we have cards, books, and games because television (thankfully) isn't a good option. There is a little room in the where one could watch a DVD if it was brought. But for those expecting a lot of electronic entertainment options, Warner Springs isn't for you.
* More of my clan. I can really see this as a venue for future family gatherings, with so many little cabins for different parts of the family to lodge, but can trade around the cousins for a family reunion sort of feel. The price is affordable and the amenities plentiful enough to accommodate a modest pocketbook and many individual inte -
Review from Barb G.
Cardiff by the Sea, CA
Updated - 1/7/2012
This one star is for the overall meanness of new management here, in my attempted visit last week (dec 30 2011).
I had family from out of town, we went to Palm Springs and on the way back home to Encinitas area, decided to make a side trip to the hot springs here at the ranch, on a day basis. I looked at the web site to find out day pass fee (I had been once before but spent the night in their accommodations, but I knew they sold day passes also).
So the four of us arrived after going at least an hour out of our way to reach the place, pulled in, went in to the front desk... and there was a sign posted in the lobby "Effective December 30, 2011, day passes WILL NOT BE SOLD. You must be a guest of the hotel to use the pools."
I was shocked because nothing was mentioned on the web site. A gentleman in line told me the place had just been sold to one of the tribes, and all the policies were different. I decided to plead with the people at the desk, to let us go, even with an extra charge, to use the pools (and mind you even if you are a hotel guest, there is a 15 fee ON TOP of the hotel charge now!!).
The young woman was adamant, no exceptions to be made. She was flushed and I could see she was not comfortable having to relay the news (apparently management had deeply impressed this on their employees). She admitted there was no announcement on the web site, but too bad.
I loved this place before, but I can see the writing on the wall that the customer service attitude under new owners is NON EXISTENT! Very sad, as it was a wonderful place...Listed in: Wellness, Massage, Mind/Body…
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/5/2011
I went here for the first time three months ago with my daughter. I had not really ever heard of it,… Read more »
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Review from Steve L.
Pasadena, CA
1/18/2012
As of January, 2012 -- Warner Springs Ranch is no longer in business.
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Review from Kate H.
San Diego, CA
1/2/2012
RIP Warner Springs. I will miss you and hope the Pala Indians do you justice. To all of the owners (or family and friends of owners), we'll always have the memories!
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Review from Samuel K.
Garden Grove, CA
6/6/2011
I'm gonna to write a 3 part review since there are different segments. I am going to rate the lodging, the hot spring pools and the golf diner across the street.
I've been to several hot spring pools but in my opinion this is the best place. Don't expect OC or Beverly HIlls pampering here. It's definitely in a a quiet, natural, isolated setting. Alot of trees and hills. I just wanna turn off my cellphone and just bond with nature as this place is very low tech.
The lodging rooms are like a small guesthouse. You have a small outdoor patio by the front door. The rooms are almost "antiquish."(Is that a word?) It's woody and reminds me of a cabin. There is no tv or internet connection. There is a fireplace which is very useful in the winter season. The mattresses are a little soft. This won't be everyone's cup of tea. I was disappointed the first time I came here but now I'm used to it.
Alof of people that come here will make their own food. We brought some propane burners and cooked up some delicious Korean bbq. I recommmend cooking rather than eating at the mediocre restaurant in this ranch.
The hot spring pools are the highlight of this place. There are 2 pools. One is a scorching 104 degrees, while the other pool is a comfortable 79 degrees. You know this place is authentic when the pools smell like "rotten eggs." If you decide to come here, make sure to come and lay in the hot spring pool Other hot spring places in the Palm Desert smell like chlorine and can't compare to this pool.
In the morning we went across the street to the Warner Springs Golf grill for brunch. The place was probably less than half full. I was in a party of six. The server said she would clean up the table for us. We waited at least 10 minutes before we were seated. The menu was simple. I ordered the $9 3-egg omelette which includes one meat and as many veggies as you wanted plus a side of country potatoes and choice of toast. The food was actually very good. It tasted like it was home cooked. For six of us, the total tab was less than $60. The only drawback to this place was the extremely slow service. -
Review from Valerie H.
San Diego, CA
6/14/2011
I'm a summer camp kinda girl who wants the outdoors experience of hiking, exploring, and getting away for the weekend... without having to pitch a tent, squat in the woods, and hunt for my next meal. Warner Springs is stuck in 1987 with its Southwest, terra cotta styling, family TV room with ping pong table and VCR, and game room. It's welcoming, comfortable, and familiar.
Our casita was clean, no frills, had a small fridge and fireplace. Recommend bringing snacks and sandwiches, because all the restaurants stop serving food at 9 p.m. There are also no vending machines on the grounds, so bring your drinks. [FYI: San Ysabel Casino is about 10 miles away and serves food until midnight.] -
Review from JöHnNy A.
11/5/2010
:-|
I'm not gonna lie.. I like the hot springs... I've often done the clothing optional place up north of Marin County..
http://www.warnersprin.../
Warner is a sweet little respite from the day to day life in San Diego.
And judging by its grounds must have been a HOTSPOT in its hey day.
We spent the weekend here since I couldn't find accomodation in Julian in such short notice. My partner and I wanted to enjoy the weekend away from home with our two boys 6yrs and 4yrs.. and Warner delivered.
http://www.warnersprin...
Pros: Beautiful surroundings, Nature trails, Two Olympic sized mineral pools: one 105 degree pool, one 85 degree pool... 2ft to 3ft for the first 1/3 of both pool make it an excellent swim for young nonswimmers (open til 12 midnight).... updated bungalow with fire place (electric heater and air conditioners as well).. Main Lodge serving dinners and rooms to enjoy a quiet read, or quiet board game, a Pub for those in need of brew... Full service salon for masage, mani pedi's etc... Brand new tennis courts, sports shop... walking trip to the Stables for childrens pony rides or adults ride.. Glider rides, Golf.. etc.... No phones, no television (except in the Lodge)....
Cons: My bungalow was not as clean as I'd like it to be.. though my partner said it was fine... and the cheap bulbs in the bathroom kept the shower and toilet area dark.. (who wants to poop in the dark.. oh.. and no wifi! WHAT?! lolz)
(I'm particular)
Rates are reasonable... considering the rooms you get.
http://www.warnersprin...
We enjoyed it enough there that we didn't even miss not going to Julian. I'd definitely return with a group of friends... it was off season and most of the clientele were Europeans and Japanese tourist, but the hotsprings were nice. I would have wanted to go again in the later evening if we didn't have the kids...
(and why not clothing optional?)
3 Woofs.. A okay.. though my kids had a fantastic time (they brought their scooters and bikes and got their pony rides.) -
Review from Malia P.
9/14/2010
Sometimes I just need to leave San Diego, this is a good place to retreat to. A little creepy to walk around at night, but during the day Warner Spring has some scenic trails that's littered with animal poo.
There is an unsually high number of Asian people up here. The food provided in the breakfast buffet reflects that. They had some of the best pancakes ever and I don't like pancakes, they also had some coconut syrup to drizzle over.
The hot water for the pool is provided through a natural hot spring. It smells like fart. The water has a slight slimy feel.
It might be a good place to go with your special someone. You can step on animal poo, fill your bellies, then smell like fart. -
Review from Deanna A.
Torrance, CA
12/16/2010 7 photos
I love this place. I am going back for New Years Eve.
The ranch is relaxing and quite. I went here a few months ago. My boy friend surprised me with a weekend get a way. Well it was fabulous. It truly is a ranch. There is not any TVs, radios or Internet access in the rooms. If you want to use the Internet you need to go to the lodge. Not to mentioned cell phone signal is not available. This place really is to escape everything.
The best part is the huge hot mineral water pool. Its huge it makes your skin feel very soft. It's open till 11 or 12 at night, which is perfect for after dinner. At first when walking in to their restaurant I was bit skeptical about what the food would be like, wow was I surprised. The food was amazing with two bottles of wine and nothing to do but go to the pool and just truly relax.
The surrounding area is beautiful, there are a ton of hiking trails and many things to do. The rooms are simple, but to be honest there is no reason to be in them all day. A lot of people I noticed bring BBQ and ice chest full of food, and hang out in front of the cabins and have a good time.
If your looking to really escape for a day of to head go to the ranch, get a massage of go horse back riding you wont be disappointed. -
Review from Gerry H.
6/14/2011
Great place for a weekend getaway. No TVs or phones in the rooms, and gets very quiet at night. Would make a decent, comfortable destination for star gazing, although the moon was too bright while we were there. Good home base for day hikes followed by jaunts into the pool and natural hot springs at dusk. Has a unique '80's summer camp charm to it, as well. Breakfast at the golf grille across the street was reasonable and very tasty. Dinner at the on-site Anza House Restaurant was pricier and mediocre.
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Review from Caroline J.
Fullerton, CA
2/1/2011
A group of my friends went there for a weekend trip on Jan. 29, 2011. We were a fan of Warner Springs Ranch as we had previously gone there two times before. This time, however, we had a negative experience. We brought an electric appliance to make food. At the time of check-in, we were not informed that this policy was not allowed. We stayed one night. Before we checked out, in the morning, a housekeeping personnel entered our room while we were in the pool and took note of the electronic cooking device. At the time of check-out, they charged us a $100 fine for having used the device.
We were informed that the ownership of this place had changed. We will know better next time that this place is no longer a guest-friendly facility. -
Review from L B.
San Diego, CA
4/27/2011
Ok this is a two part review. One for the golf course and the other for the "resort" part aka lodging area. Let's start with the happiest part of this place, the golf course. We played in a group of about 30 guys and seriously had the entire course to ourselves. I was amazed by the fairways and greens in this off the map location. I have never been to Warner Springs and it seemed as though I was in the middle of the back country. Back to golf...The course was better than expected although no snack cart person!? Good thing we brought our own refreshments. We received a smokin deal for two days of golf and lodging so I'm not sure how much a round cost. We played 36 holes on Monday and 27 on Tuesday, so you see we enjoyed the course.
Ok now the bungalows.. Old, smell like smoke (fireplace in room) and kinda dirty if your a clean freak. For a guys weekend its perfect.. bringing your girlfriend, umm you might want to reconsider unless she doesn't care about stuff like that. At night the grounds are very dark (bring a flashlight), but very quiet. The hot springs pool is a good concept, but as the staff said they close the pool on Mondays to drain it and refill it.umm its Monday and so your telling me a weeks worth of other peoples bodily nastys are still in there! I know its 104 degrees but the thought kinda grossed me and my friends out a bit. We got in anyway and as another yelper said I felt slimy to the touch. I think this is common but flash back to the "we drain it Mondays" speech and I was ready to go back to my room for a shower. Oh the towel nazi will not give you a towel until you give him somthing..your first born, wedding ring, room key, etc geez. If I wanted to steal your blue and white beach towel I would just take it from the numerous towels laying around the pool, but I'm not a thief!.. sorry back to the"resort" ..overall it was quiet and had a nice golf course. So much more to Yelp about, but I feel I am losing you..go check it out for yourself and let me know what you think. Oh and there isn't any TV or Phone but my IPHONE with AT&T service got the best 5 bars of service it ever got (weird) Cheers! -
Review from Paula D.
8/19/2009
Warner Springs is great!
The Springs are lovely and right next to a cold pool, you can jump from one to another and even in winter it feels great. They also have saunas, horseback riding, golf, tennis, watercolor classes and a Spa!
The lodge has good food and fun activities at night. There is also a Cantina where you can have a few margaritas, yum!
This is a nice semi rustic place where you have the peace and quiet of the great outdoors, with a comfortable bed and a roaring fire. -
Review from Kyle G.
San Diego, CA
3/26/2009
I've been here at least 75 times; I've been coming since I was a baby and my family is an owner. If I were to rate it a year ago and before it would have been an easy 5, however, this place is now a 2.
They are selling the property and the customer service has dropped off the face of the earth now that there isn't a future for Warners. They are sneaking $10 on every night's stay without informing the visitor, they won't give out towels at the pool anymore unless you have the right "paperwork", and they don't care about your complaints anymore. This once was my favorite place, now I don't care if I return here again eventhough I have deep roots.
If you haven't been coming here for years then you probably wouldn't see how this place has changed for the worse, and I am sure you will have a great time. It is still the best hot springs ranch around, but it is sad to see that their wonderful customer service is quickly dissapearing. -
Review from Maggie Z.
La Jolla, CA
9/27/2009
I came to warner springs ranch for my department retreat.
This place really wow me in many ways!
First of all, the food is very decent. I didn't expect much before I went. However, I was surprised by the quality of the food. The snacks, fruit, and the beef in particular are really good.
Secondly, people working there are very friendly. There are always people there to assist me when I looked lost. I also went to a hike with couple friends. Our tour guy, Jeff, was super helpful. He showed us the native plants and told us about the history of the place. Everyone was having fun in the group.
The place itself is very pretty and the amenities are good. There are hot springs, pools, horse back riding, mountain bike etc, so no one would get bored.
I would highly recommend this place. -
Review from Z. H.
Los Angeles, CA
1/8/2010
I took my girlfriend to Warner Springs Ranch for a surprise weekend getaway, and she really liked it. With no phones or TV, we felt like we really got away. We were there for only two days, so we didn't get a chance to try all the activities mentioned in the other reviews, but we did go horseback riding, have a massage, and swim in the pools. Of the three, the pools were the highlight. The hot springs pool is seriously hot and springy, and it's great fun to hop back and forth between it and the cool pool. One evening we found seat by the pool, and they happened to be showing Jaws (Jaws!!) on a projector screen. So we settled in, stuffed our faces with their amazing Mexican corn on the cob, and drank numerous beers. That night was superfun and superinexpensive.
Some of the other reviews have mentioned a need for an "upgrade" to the rooms or the Ranch in general, but I just want to say that I found it all quite comfortable. Consider that any upgrade could ruin the rusticity and charm, making it indistinguishable from a million other "upgraded" yet boring and sterile black holes. I like this place just the way it is. -
Review from ErikaLin P.
Santee, CA
2/21/2010 8 photos
I'm with Sharon... there needs to be a .5 somewhere. I am a fan of Warner Springs Ranch: the food was delish, the hot springs are incredibly relaxing and refreshing, the grounds are fun to explore.
At the hot pool, the staff gave us a bucket and helped us make a "hot tub" for our six month old son. (The hot pool was dangerously hot for little ones.) I just loved the customer service! My husband felt like we were in an old movie while lounging at the pools. It was a great time for us all.
The rustic nature of the Ranch seems to be a plus or minus for everyone--you either love it or hate it. We loved it and appreciated the simplicity. I do think you can be rustic and up-to-date at the same time. The linens, lamps, carpet, and art need an overhaul, but even though it was old school it still felt clean.
We also met the famous Beatrice... loved her!
It will be interesting to see what happens as the Ranch is in escrow and the Pala indians are purchasing it. I forsee the needed upgrades taking place... -
Review from Rebecca C.
San Diego, CA
1/11/2011 1 photo
Parents have ownership here so I've been going since I was little. This place is amazing. So relaxing and peaceful - It really is a getaway from everything. Although I do have verizon (the only carrier that gets reception there) so I can still access the internet/use my phone from my room. The mineral water is wonderfullll especially on cold nights. There is also a golfcourse, hiking trails, horseback riding, tennis courts, and a clubhouse with a pool table, restaurant, tv rooms and a coffee machine so it's suitable for all members of the family :]
Listed in: Outside Ventures
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Review from Wendy C.
Orange County, CA
Updated - 8/4/2008 3 photos
Upgrading to 4-star. It was my misunderstanding - they didn't charge me for sending my clothes back. :) The visa transaction was just deposit at check-in. It confused me because everything was already pre-paid!
Anyway, the staff were very helpful and pleasant. A nice retreat for couples as well as for families.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/30/2008
I was looking for a place to take my fiance for our 10th anniversary. We both love horseback… Read more »
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Review from Michelle K.
Palo Alto, CA
6/2/2009
Warner Spring Ranch feels like the summer camp of your youth. Except that you're not so young anymore and the institutional cafeteria-like look of the Anza Dining Room isn't quite as charming; the beds are old, uncomfortable and springy; and the food, which might have just acted as fuel in your youth, now leaves much to be desired.
The big draw to this place is the hot springs pool. It's a large, steaming bath of hot springs water perfect for soothing achy joints and relaxation. The large cold pool aside makes for a perfect, refreshing dip -- except for the many squirming, screaming kids splashing around. It would be nice if they had an adult-only section.
The rooms are quaint and could use some renovation. There were ants in our shower and a persistent leak.
Service was mixed. The service at the Anza dining room in particular was strange. We asked to sit at a certain table both at dinner and breakfast and they were VERY reluctant to allow us to sit there, despite the fact that the dining room was nearly empty. The reservations staff, however, were extremely friendly.
Food: Eh. Nothing stood out. As my traveling partner put it, "the meals were bland and inoffensive." My advice? Before coming to the hot springs, pack a cooler full of sandwiches, snacks, beer and wine and store whatever you can in the mini-fridge so you can avoid eating some meals in the dining room.
All in all, it's a nice getaway for LA/SD folks, but if they don't upgrade soon, customers will go elsewhere. -
Review from Jon D.
6/10/2010
On a recent return trip to San Diego - my friend and I took a little tangential side trip up to Warner Springs ranch. It was a gift-certificate style freebie from a mutual friend, so I can't really say much on the over-all value of the place as I really don't know what the whole thing would ordinarily cost.
I'm a little torn though. On one hand, I think the place could really use an overhaul. It kinda felt like the summer camps my folks used to send me to as a kid... only for grown ups. And not just grown ups....but grown up almost to the point of moved-on. Not much of a pulse going on here at Warner Springs. Not sure if we just happened upon it during a slow weekend, or if it's like this most of the time.
Why am I torn? Well, because all griping aside, I actually found a certain *charm* in the whole antiquated theme going on. The fact that this place was SO seemingly removed from the rest of the societal hustle just an hour down the road, actually made the departure from said bustle just that much easier.
As long as you don't go here expecting to be entertained, in any way other than vague people watching - the ranch is pretty enjoyable.
The Hot springs were excellent. They've got the COOL pool (which pretty much just feels like a warm swimming pool) and the HOT pool which truly lives up to its name. I had to stay in the cooler end of the hot pool because the truly HOT end was a bit too much to take. I was amazed at how long some people soaked up the really hot stuff. Kudos to you guys - apparently you need it more than I did.
The rooms here were a pretty sparse operation. I agree that the beds weren't that comfortable, and I really would have liked a TV. The dining options there at the ranch were decent, but nothing to go out of your way for.
I believe that I heard something about Warner Springs Ranch getting purchased (or reclaimed?) by the local Indian tribe. I would imagine some upgrades are in their future once this happens.
As long as you go here planning to enjoy the lazy soak time that is guaranteed at the Hot Springs and you keep your expectations low, you'll have a good time. Just remember to pack your own beverages (no alcohol is served at the pools). Oh, and go back after dinner. The pools are open late and it really is pretty cool to soak it up by moonlight and watch everyone steam away. -
Review from Gloria K.
La Jolla, CA
1/15/2011
Beautiful retreat located about an hour or so from North San Diego. It's small and cozy. I am not a big fan of getting out into the wilderness, so this is a nice transitional place--it's far enough, but still has comforts like free WiFi, a fireplace stocked with firewood in your room (and handy instructions), and, at least for our meeting, a guide to show us around the area for a short hike in the sun. The people were friendly and the rooms were quaint and cozy.
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Review from Aly D.
6/16/2007
i was surprised to see that someone had actually reviewed this place. i thought no one knew about warner springs. its one of those places that you stumble upon by accident or you hear of by word of mouth. its not like they really advertise their location or amenities, although they finally got a nifty website up for all to see.
ive been coming to warner springs since i was about 8 months old. yeah, my parents found it, fell in love with it, and decided to invest. they wanted a place where they could retreat to, free of work related crap, cell phones (well.... not when i was 8 m onths old), and tvs. plus, my dad loves to golf. he's a fanatic. i swear he has a million pairs of argyle socks.
this place pretty much offers everything you could want to relax: hot springs (will relax the hell out of you and put you to sleep so go swimming with a buddy), olympic sized pools, golf, tennis, horseback riding, hiking, a spa, food (the lodge and the golf grill), a cozy bar, shuffle board (for those of you who still love cruise games) and even a horse shoe pit.
just like Jim B. mentioned, there are no tvs, radios, phones... nothing to detract from your mission of forgetting the world for a couple of days.
the casitas are nice and spacious and have the option of getting casitas big enough for your family or just the perfect size for you and your companion. the casitas have small fridges, full size bathrooms, and plenty of room to move around and relax.
hooray for warner springs. i'm heading out there pretty soon :) can't wait to sleep in the hot springs and get in a few rounds of golf. ahhhhh i get to relax....... -
Review from Janet D.
4/25/2009 1 photo
Warner Springs is a totally unique place...and, admittedly, not for everyone. It's sad for me to see the lower ratings, because I know people personally here and I'm privy to the struggles of this historic ranch to stay afloat...so many people work so very hard to make the limited resources keep this place as a peaceful and friendly haven for those wanting to escape the race. The ranch has an amazing history...once home to the Cupa Indians (until they were forced to leave for the Pala reservation), once visited by Kit Carson, once owned by Bing Crosby (and frequented by the Hollywood set), once a costly timeshare. Now, it's a private resort (with appx 1,500 owners paying monthly dues in exchange for being part of a family and discounted rooms/services)...non-owners can stay here as a guest of an owner or as part of a group/package (corporate, spa, horse, golf, etc.), paying full price. We've been owners for 5+ years and love this place so much...the memories are priceless.
The ranch is a cross between a rustic family camp and a casual country club...don't expect fancy here and you might just see peeling paint. But, it has tons of charm...it's a throwback to the old days. You can golf, ride horses (owners can become independent riders and take a horse out for free; guests can take lessons, guided trail rides, or breakfast rides out to a shady spot where you eat a ranch-style breakfast on picnic tables under the oak trees), play tennis, soak in the Olympic-size HOT springs pool (there is nothing better than soaking in the hot pool in the fall and winter when the steam rises up all around you...OK, so the sulfur smells a bit, but it's great for your skin!) then cool off in the adjacent cool pool, go to the spa (a good one!), do yoga or pilates (even in the hot pool), do a craft, go mountain biking, or just sit on your butt in front of the fire in the lodge. Easter, July 4th, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas are some of the most special times here with egg hunts, watermelon eating contests, trick-or-treating in costume (adults too!), and lots of friendly people always taking the time to talk to you.
You eat in the Anza Dining Room (a big ranch-style room with a top quality chef who used to cook for an upscale cruise ship), the Golf Grill (a casual cafe adjacent to the golf course), or poolside (yes, they are quirky, but the food is quite good when you get it).
Get out of your box, relax your corporate expectations and come stay here...you'll feel like you went back in time. -
Review from Kelly C.
San Diego, CA
6/22/2009
First time to a day spa!
So it was my girlfriends birthday and she decided a few of us should visit a day spa. It's $25 just to get in and the massages are like $95 and up. What a treat this place is, besides the fact it took like an hour and a half to get there, but he drive was beautiful anyway. So finally we arrive(the place is gated so you must check in at the front desk first). Let me tell you this lady Beatrice must have been the nicest customer service woman I have ever gotten(maybe even a little eerie if you ask me). She checked us it and gave us all the information we would need for the day. This place I think is great for families with kids. They have everything here including horseback riding, hiking, hot springs pools, horse shoe, massages, mani and pedis, I mean like everything and it's just gorgeous here. But like Michelle K. said it totally is like a summer camp. My girlfriends and I could stop thinking of girl scout camp and how similar it was! Anyway my gf went in for a massage so us other girls decided to lay out. It was completely packed, but luckily we found an upper pool with only like one person in it. It was gated and locked so we were going to hop the fence, but found out it was easy to just check out a key at the front desk. Again we got Beatrice and she was just so nice. It cracked us girls up she said "it's just lovely here isn't it, you all should come back and stay here soon." We were thinking yeah so you can cut us up in the middle of the night with an axe? Hahaha. Anyway I would totally go back and enjoy the beauty and quietness of this resort. Just watch out for Beatrice. hehe -
Review from Laura K.
Los Angeles, CA
12/9/2008
We loved this place!! From the moment we got there they surpassed out expectations!!! We did not know much about the resort other than we wanted to be in close proximity to Julian. Warner Springs is about 15-20 minutes drive from Julian.
The reception people were very nice and very knowledgeable of hikes in the area. They have a huge, beautiful pool area with a natural sulfur pool and chlorinated cold pool. The pool area was open until midnight. It was so-ooo relaxing and quiet!
They rent bikes from the resort. We didn't make use of this service due to a lack of time but will on our next visit.
The cantina was nice, very sweet bartender from Thailand who made us Irish coffee's while we sat by the fireplace.
We stayed in a casita, It was nice, a little old and dusty but adequate.
On the way to Julian from the resort you will pass Santa Ysabel Casino (10 min), which is kind of fun. We went there for dinner and drinks and for something to do. Steak dinner was $4.95!!! Drinks during happy hour are $2 and are normally $5-7 for cocktails and $3-4 for beer! It was a Saturday night and they had a pretty good bar band playing. Only disappointment was no Texas Holdem. Apparently, they do not offer this game every day, only for special events.
Julian was very nice this time of year (Decemeber). Everything was decorated with Christmas ornaments and there was many opportunities to listen to music. We went hiked the Volcan Mountain which was gorgeous! Finally, we visited the Eagle Mine & went on a very interesting and fun tour of the mine. We ate at a Pizzaria with great live Blue Grass Music.
All in all a great and cheap weekend trip!!! -
Review from Paul K.
Yorba Linda, CA
2/23/2010
I stayed here two nights a couple of weeks ago.
The place was not bad. It's just not my taste. If you like rustic rural living style, this is the place to go. There is no TV. No cooking whatsoever in the room, but you can take a gas grill (no charcoal in the property) and cook in the front patio.
It's very quite and the property is quite spacious. There is a lot of green space to roam around and enjoy the nature.
The room: the beds were not comfortable. the sheets were clean, but I did not feel them clean... mattress were not confortable. the charge $10 for the fireplace and $7 for a small bundle of woods - that's expensive... the bathrooms are outdated. I have been cleaner fixtures in some gas stations.
the springs pool: nothing bad about this. I enjoyed it A LOT.
Golf course: well... not bad. It's maintained OK. Great service at the pro shop. the course is at the level of ok municipal ones.
food: I only dine @ Anza. food is pretty good. service is good: they could use some organization. every waitress passing by our table asked us how we were doing (that's almost every other minute). I had a bad experience with the girl at the front. maybe she was new: she didn't have a good idea of what she was doing.
Again, this is about taste and preference. This place does not fit into mine. -
Review from sharon f.
San Diego, CA
2/16/2010
WSR: The good, the bad, and the really ugly.
**First of all, let me say, I wish there was something between 2 stars "Meh, I've experienced better" to 3 stars "A-OK" There's a chasm of customer service/quality for your dollar difference between the two! I'd give this place more than 2 stars but not willing to say "A-OK" for reasons I'll list below.**
Good: (1) Hot Springs Pool! We went three times in two days. Clean, well-attended, historic, and charming. Hours were incredible - open until midnight on Valentine's day,and then open again at 6am the next morning! Nothing better than floating on a couple of noodles, star gazing through the blowing steam tendrils and enjoying the benefits of the minerals to inspire romance and relaxation. (2) Charming historic buildings and structures throughout the grounds. (3) The grounds are fairly well-kept, albeit rustic (I am being generous and counting 100 thread count sheets, an uncomfortable bed almost reminiscent of summer camp furniture that is falling apart and nonfunctional windows as "rustic"), and charming. (4) Staff are genuinely friendly and helpful for the most part. (5) The local wine selection at dinner was great, and very reasonably priced.
Bad: (1) Some of the deferred maintenance could make the place unsafe, like bushes growing over wooden staircases with no handrails and inadequate lighting. (2) Food at the restaurant really needs to be higher quality. Getting three cold buns (for the two of us, no really) that were still stuck together (the cheapest dinner rolls imaginable) and only after asking for some bread were not worth the 47.00 per diner price we paid! None of the other items rose far above that standard (3) Wait staff needs training - the dining room needs more professional management. "It's all good" in response to our thank you for bringing the bread, for example, could be tightened up a bit. Not being acknowledged (not even eye contact, and we really tried!) for 20 minutes while tables all around received service, another 15 minutes to get our wine, all the while watching the harried wait staff run from table to table inefficiently are all things that can be remedied with one good manager (and if you are going to charge those kind of prices, you really need to professionalize - otherwise, just serve burgers and pizza and charge (and serve) accordingly!) Just being realistic. (4) The towel thing at the pool was just downright weird. Airline security is more lax! Really, do you have that much trouble with towel shrinkage that you have to so tightly control all towel movement? I was a little insulted. And then, on top of that I paid 10.00 for a resort fee. I guess that was for all the towel tracking.
Ugly: The checkout clerk informing me that I was being charged an additional 100.00 for not letting the staff know I had a pet with me. Uhhh, yeah. Not only did I tell them via e-mail when inquiring about availability, I asked when telephonically making my reservation, and then took my Chihuahua in with me when I checked in! I called attention to the fact I did bring my dog, and the person said "that will be a 20.00 deposit," which of course I agreed to. On the website it says there are limited rooms that can accommodate pets so I wanted to be sure I was getting a room that I could have a pet in. The check in clerk even went into detail about the areas where I could and could not take my dog, so I know she was tracking at some level. I went to such trouble to let multiple people know I had a pet and was willing to follow their rules and still I got the "you're a shithead" treatment at the end. That left a bad taste. -
Review from Jim B.
Irvine, CA
5/14/2007
A relaxing ranch style resort for the weekend. The drive is about 2.5 hours from LA/South Bay, so that's no fun, but once you get to the Ranch you soon forget you are only a few hours away from the hustle of civilization. First, you can actually see stars in the sky. Second, you notice you can take deep breaths without coughing.
The rooms at the Ranch do not have TVs or Radios. (There is a clubhouse with a TV, but rarely used.) The main purpose of the Ranch is to relax in the hot spring pool, recharge and re-energize for civilization.
Food is not a major selling point here. There are a couple of restaurants here, but the food is just okay. Again, the main purpose of this place is to relax, so the food does not distract from the relaxing.
The rooms are older and need some major remodeling. But during my stay, I was barely in the rooms. Most of my time was spent at the pool or hot spring pool. -
Review from Sandi H.
Beverly Hills, CA
3/13/2011 4 photos
I wanted to go down to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park this weekend to see the wildflowers, but it's so popular that the rates at the place I usually stay (the Palms at Indian Head in Borrego Springs) were too high for my budget. Warner Springs is only about a half hour away from Anza-Borrego, so I decided to stay at the ranch. Boy am I glad I did. It's a historic property, and although it could use a bit of a facelift and a little TLC, it's still magical. The hot mineral springs pool is open til midnight and was a great way to end the day, steam rising over the water while the sun set. The massage in the spa was stellar (surprisingly) and the scene in the cantina at night was fun and boisterous, though the food was barely OK (and you have to be patient with the service). I didn't get a chance to ride a horse but there are tons of trails and you can even hike part of the PCT from the ranch. It's conveniently located down the road from Sky Sailing where you can fly a sailplane, and a couple of wineries as well. It's not far from Julian and Temecula too, so you can make a whole wine country excursion out of it. One note: the property is DARK at night, so bring a flashlight! The rooms also run cold, so if you don't feel like building a fire, bring some warm PJs and maybe an extra blanket. Still, I'm already dreaming about when I can go back...
-
Review from Jeremy V.
San Diego, CA
2/15/2010
two stars only because my money was refunded without hassle.
drove out from cardiff to stay on valentine's night (a sunday). my gf had given me a certificate for a glider ride at the sky sailing place on the ranch, so we decided to make it our v day destination. the front desk staff were super nice on check in! reading the reviews on here (well, I clearly missed michelle k's) and reviewing the warner springs website led me to believe we were heading to a rural, rustic, relaxing getaway out in the middle of nowhere. what we found was a glorified campground. it's cool if you're a family with kids or a couple over 50 - no offense intended to people in those groups. the casitas were ok, clean at least, and probably would have been cooler if we were in one that had a fireplace and a fridge. we planned to get a pizza and eat in after a long day. you would think that with a full house, they could fire up the pizza oven reserved for thursday, friday and saturday nights. yup, it's me, "the pizza guy". we asked first at the hostess station, and they informed us we needed to talk to the bar for takeout pizza. after 20 minutes of standing at the bar, we were acknowledged and informed that the pizza was not made on sunday nights. fair enough - we went back to our room to regroup since the rest of the menu was not our cup of tea. upon reviewing the print out of today's events, we noticed "pizza,chicken, and pasta buffet" would be served in the bar that night! i called the front desk and asked "if there is pizza in the buffet, why can't i get a pizza?" they said i should be able to get one if it's on the buffet. so back to the cantina we head! standing at the bar this time for more than 20 minutes, some other folks around us began to wonder if we were in some sort of bizzaro land... there were 3 bartenders frantically at work, but not one would make eye contact with anyone at the bar. when one finally spoke to us, we asked about the pizza again, and pointed out the pizza on the buffet menu. the bartender informed us that if there was pizza at the buffet, we could have it there. then she proceeded to tell us that we should look at what was available for food down THAT hallway, we should look at what was available for food down THAT OTHER hallway, and if we didn't like what we saw, we could come back here and order something. great. at that point, a nice gentlemen at the bar informed us that if we wanted to order pizza, we would have to do it at the hostess station. so back we go - only to find out that the pizza oven is not on... when i point out the pizza on the buffet menu, they let me know that that's a mistake and there are only hamburgers and hot dogs at the buffet. then the rudest one of the bunch exclaimed "HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY" in the smarmiest way possible, and i'm not just saying that because i wanted pizza. she was actually THAT RUDE after telling us we should go down the hallway for hamburgers and hot dogs in the buffet room on valentine's day.
here's the kicker: i called ahead to make reservations for the more formal dining, but no one ever called me back! i would have gladly paid the $47 per person for what i can only imagine must have been a gourmet spread. we would even have stayed the night, dropped another c note on horseback riding, spent more money at the overpriced spa for massages, and likely would have felt ripped off.
note to self for warner springs ranch: call people back for dinner reservations. and fire up the pizza oven when you have a full house. if either of those things had happened, i would not have handed back my keys 2 hours after check in.
the manager was super nice and expressed his concern that if we were being treated this way, others were too and he would need to address the staff (hostess and bartender) that were totally rude to us.
one more note for anyone considering staying here: honestly, this place is a glorified camp ground - there is nothing "resort" about it except that all the extras are grossly overpriced. there's a reason there aren't any exterior casita pictures or a resort map on the website. pretty much like a trailer park.
