Uncovering California's hidden fountain of youth: The Fountain of Youth Spa Resort in Niland

Sunset at Fountain of Youth, Niland CAPhoto byTracy Carbone

Fountain of Youth Resort Spa, Niland CAPhoto byTracy Carbone

The second thing that may come to mind is the 1985 film, Cocoon, which features a nursing home’s elderly residents becoming magically youthful when using the swimming pool that contained alien cocoons with restorative powers.

Given the quest for mythical powers attributed to age-deferring fountains and springs, it's helpful to know that California is known for its natural hot springs. Per Mindfood.com, “Characterized by volcanic and seismic activity, California has numerous hot springs…more hot spring resorts than any other West Coast states.”

One specifical location, the Fountain of Youth Spa Resort in Niland, California, combines both mineral hot springs, and hundreds of 55+ residents (most well over) who feel and act quite a bit younger, ala Cocoon. This pristine, gated RV park is a hidden gem about an hour southeast of Palm Springs.

Through the front gate you’re transported into an idyllic place, where you’ll see residents and weekend guests exercising in the pool, playing bocce, riding bikes, or walking dogs in one of two dog parks. It’s not unusual to see people in their 90s or even early 100s in the pool or at the café.

Foutain of Youth hiking trails, Niland CAPhoto byTracy Carbone

FOY, as its residents call it, takes full advantage of the hot springs and their restorative power, featuring several hot tubs, a raw mineral spa, mineral steam baths, plus salt water and chlorinated pools. Family owned and operated since 1965 it has “grown from a hidden magical oasis to one of the most premier and sought after RV destinations in the world.” The “community is nestled up next to the gorgeous Chocolate Mountains, on acres of stunning desert landscape, surrounded by miles of hiking and biking trails.” There are also frequent concerts and karaoke nights, a store, craft and yoga studios, a gym, and disk golf across the street.

Walking trails, Niland CAPhoto byTracy Carbone

Mindfood.com touts the healing powers of hot springs that “have been used for thousands of years.” They boost blood circulation due to minerals “including calcium and sodium bicarbonate. Our bodies soak up these minerals when we are in a hot spring, which increases circulation and overall oxygen flow.”

They may aid in pain relief and fatigue caused by widespread pain. Intense heat “can dull our perception of pain by blocking the pain receptors in our bodies. Also being buoyant in the water often allows for freer movement as the water supports the body’s joints.”

The glow the residents seem to have? “The high silica content found in hot springs can smooth and soften dry and rough skin. Meanwhile the sulphur contained in the water can also hold medicinal properties that may relieve conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.”

Recently, the park began allowing a percentage of under 55s to purchase homes (very reasonable prices for purchase, and park rent) so younger owners are peppered in, often telecommuting from a mini-paradise. Guests can also bring RVs for a weekend or longer, rent a site, and enjoy the amenities.

Chocolate Mountains, Niland CAPhoto byTracy Carbone

The minerals and heat may explain the youthful glow of the residents, and their boundless energy, but I like to think it’s just a little bit of magic. If you’re looking for a wonderful place to visit or live, I highly recommend checking out the Fountain of Youth Spa Resort.