Warner Springs is a rural, unincorporated community in northeastern San Diego County, California, located along State Route 79 in the county's backcountry between Temecula to the north and the mountain towns of Santa Ysabel and Julian to the south. The area's population is roughly 1,185, spread across a broad valley framed by the surrounding mountains of the Peninsular Ranges. The area holds deep indigenous history as the homeland of the Cupeño people, whose Agua Caliente rancheria village sat at the natural hot springs that give the community part of its name. In the 19th century, the area became known for Warner's Ranch, a historic cattle and stagecoach stop on the route between the coast and the desert, and the hot springs developed into a resort destination. Today, the hot springs and the ranch remain central to the community's identity, with redevelopment efforts aimed at restoring the historic resort. Warner Springs is best known today as a celebrated stop on the Pacific Crest Trail, which passes directly through the community and brings a seasonal flow of through-hikers each spring. The area is also recognized for its equestrian character, with miles of riding trails and numerous horse properties, and for its proximity to Palomar Observatory, one of the world's important astronomical research sites, on nearby Palomar Mountain. Warner Springs appeals to residents seeking privacy, land, and a genuine rural lifestyle within San Diego County. Its small Warner Unified School District, ranching heritage, and outdoor orientation make it a distinctive corner of a county better known for its coastal cities.