Operated by Heart Consciousness Church, a non-profit, it is named after Matthew Harbin, a pioneer who settled in the Lake County area.

Located approximately two hours north of the San Francisco Bay Area, in the United States, the facility suffered partial destruction in the Valley Fire in September 2015, resulting in its temporary closure.

[3] It partially reopened in January 2019, including the main pools and sauna, along with a limited cafeteria service.

A fresh water spring filled a 30,000 US gallons (110,000 L; 25,000 imp gal) tank in two days, which was used for fire purposes.

[11][10] Due to the region's susceptibility to wildfires, successive lodges have been rebuilt over the years following their destruction by fire.

[10] As of 2012, the clothing-optional retreat center was known as an outdoor spa with a New Age ambiance, where Watsu was developed.

[19] SunRay Kelly had designed and built the Harbin Hot Springs Temple, a yoga and meditation space, which burned down in 2015.

[20][21] In January 2019 it partially reopened, including the main pools and sauna, and a limited cafeteria service.