Sam’s was founded by Sam Weinberg, who drilled deep into the local geology to tap the naturally heated mineral waters that made Desert Hot Springs famous. That water, and the spirit behind it, remains the heart of everything we do.
You’ll also meet our resident family of ducks, who seem to agree there’s no better place to spend the day. In case you are wondering, they are Oreo, Aflac, Creamsicle, and Double D.
We look forward to welcoming you, whether you’ve been coming here for years or you’re just discovering Sam’s for the first time.
A History of Our Mineral Hot Springs
Located on 40 acres of desert land with a scenic view of the vastmountains, we take pride in our 4 partially enclosed pools that flow from our natural hot mineral water, stemming from our 3 wells. The first well is 300 feet deep and 105°F. The second is 280 feet deep and 127°F. The third well is 265 feet deep and is 142°F.
Every morning, we drain the fresh mineral water from the ground in all 3 wells to create a naturally heated mineral spa experience.
Sam’s Family Spa – History & Evolution
Sam’s Family Spa was built in 1971, designed as a place for relaxation, family enjoyment, and soaking in natural mineral waters.
The name “Sam’s Family Spa” stems from the founder “Sam” — the resort has long embraced a family-oriented mission.
Over the decades, the property has evolved from simple hot springs to a full resort with RV sites, motel/tiny-home lodging, spa amenities, pools, gardens, and more.
Heritage
For over five decades, Sam’s Family Spa has stood as a testament to the vision of Sam — a place where nature’s healing waters meet heartfelt hospitality. What began as a modest retreat in the California desert has grown into a cherished haven for families, travelers, and wellness seekers alike, preserving the timeless tradition of relaxation and rejuvenation.
Nestled in the heart of Desert Hot Springs, California, Sam’s Family Spa has been a beloved destination for relaxation, healing, and community since its founding in the mid-1970s. The resort was established by Sam and Gloria Alhadeff, who envisioned a natural desert oasis where travelers could experience the therapeutic benefits of mineral-rich hot spring waters in a family-friendly environment.
Desert Hot Springs sits atop one of the most famous geothermal aquifers in the world, producing pure, odorless mineral spring water naturally heated deep underground. This unique geological feature lies along the San Andreas Fault, where geothermal activity infuses the region’s underground reservoirs with minerals known to rejuvenate the skin and relax the body.
Unlike many other desert spas, Sam’s Family Spa features four mineral-fed hot pools, each maintaining its own soothing temperature between 99°F and 104°F. The resort also offers a large freshwater swimming pool, all set within a lush, garden-filled landscape — a true oasis amid the Coachella Valley’s arid terrain.
From humble beginnings as a modest RV campground, Sam’s evolved into a full-service resort with RV sites, motel rooms, tiny homes, and park model rentals. Families came for the hot springs — but they stayed for the sense of community. Over the decades, Sam’s has earned a reputation as a multi-generational gathering place, where visitors return year after year to reconnect, unwind, and feel at home under the desert sun.
The Alhadeff family’s vision emphasized affordability and inclusivity — a welcoming haven for snowbirds, road trippers, and international visitors alike. Today, the resort continues that legacy of warm hospitality and simple desert luxury.
