Hiding in the heart of California’s Central Valley is Mercey Hot Springs, a rustic resort where you can soak in geothermal waters far away from the bustle of everyday life. While it’s not one of the most luxurious hot spring destinations, it’s a minimalistic, utilitarian experience. It makes for a perfect California winter getaway for a day trip or weekend. This spring sits in the Panoche Valley, a little over a three-hour drive from San Francisco (depending on traffic). You’ll feel like you’re in an oasis in the middle of nowhere, and the nearest town is Los Banos, which is 35 miles away. Since daytime temperatures can get up to 92 degrees Fahrenheit around June through the end of September, winter is a great time to go to Mercey Hot Springs, as it often doesn’t get below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.