Remington Hot Springs, Bakersfield, CA: Updated Guide 2026

I’m Vanessa, a San Diego native and founder of catraveltimes.com. I audit every destination before writing a word. Remington Hot Springs was no exception — I drove Kern Canyon Road on a Tuesday with zero expectations and left three hours later completely sold. It’s a free, volunteer-built set of 4 soaking pools along the Kern River in Sequoia National Forest. If you’re exploring hot springs near Bakersfield, this one belongs at the top of your list.

What is Remington Hot Springs? Quick Details

Remington Hot Springs sits off Kern Canyon Road, Sequoia National Forest — free to enter, no permit needed. Water stays between 100°F–106°F, best visited in spring or fall, rated 4.5 stars across platforms.

The Tübatulabal people used these waters long before settlers arrived. Gold Rush miners followed. In the early 1990s, volunteers built the current hand-crafted stone pools by hand — embedding colored rocks, jewelry, and spelling “Paradise” into the steps.

When I researched this history, one thing struck me — the people who care most rarely get credit. These volunteers built something beautiful simply because the land moved them. That quiet dedication made me want to show up as a visitor who truly deserved to be there.

Remington Hot Springs Directions & Map

• Remington Hot Springs Address: Kern Canyon Road, Bodfish/Wilkerson, California 93518

The address is Kern Canyon Road, Bodfish, CA 93518 — GPS 35.5779° N, 118.5531° W — and getting there is simpler than most canyon destinations I’ve covered.

I took Highway 178 east out of Bakersfield, watching the flatlands give way to canyon walls as the road narrowed and the Kern River started appearing through the trees. About 30 miles in, I turned right onto Kern Canyon Road and followed it for 7.8 miles until a small brown Forest Service sign on the right marked the parking area.

Which brings me to something I want you to actually see — because no directions can prepare you for how this place looks in person.

Remington Hot Springs Photos – Stunning & Scenic Views

Every time I try to describe Remington Hot Springs, words fall short. The stone pools, the rushing river alongside, the canyon walls above it’s one of those places that genuinely has to be seen. So here, I’ll let the photos do the talking.

Key Topics Every Visitor Should Know: Status, Pools & Past Closures 

Is Remington Hot Springs Open?

When I planned my visit, this was the first thing I searched, and honestly, the answer isn’t simple. The U.S. Forest Service closed it indefinitely in February 2024 after two fatalities. As of mid-2025, it’s reopened but always confirm first at fs.usda.gov/sequoia or call (760) 376-3781. I called before I drove. You should, too.

What Are the Pools Actually Like?

Four pools, one experience. The Miners Tub hits 106°F at the top of the hottest, most intense soak. Water cools gradually through three hand-built stone pools down to 100°F riverside. Mild sulfur smell, clear water, volunteer-maintained. I spent ninety minutes moving between them. Each pool felt intentional, like the people who built them actually used them.

Have the Pools Ever Been Destroyed?

Not destroyed but nearly lost. Vandalism, broken glass, and littering pushed this site to the edge of permanent closure. The 2024 shutdown was a warning. I’ve seen California hot springs treated like drive-throughs, and the damage is real. Every visitor who packs out their trash keeps this place alive for the next person. That responsibility leads directly into timing your visit right. Every visitor who packed out their waste kept the pools open for the next person. Understanding that context shapes everything about how and when you choose to visit, including the timing, which matters more than most people realize.

I’ve visited in fall and it felt completely different from what friends described in summer — here’s what each season actually feels like.

Water Temperature & Best Time to Visit Remington Hot Springs

The geothermal source water emerges at around 106°F (41°C) and cools to approximately 100°F (38°C) as it flows into the lower soaking pools, while the upper Miners Tub — perched 50 feet above the river pools — tends to run hotter. Because this is a natural, unregulated system, temperatures shift slightly with rainfall, seasonal water tables, and river levels. Here’s how each season plays out:

Timing your visit is half the equation. The other half is knowing what to bring — and what to leave in the car.

Tips for Visiting Remington Hot Springs

In my research process, I treat packing lists like checklists before a flight — non-negotiable, not optional. I once arrived at a Kern Canyon trailhead in sandals because I assumed “short trail” meant “easy terrain.” The riverbank corrected that assumption quickly. Here’s exactly what I bring and why.

Clothing & Footwear

• Swimsuit — Clothing is technically optional at these springs, though nudity is officially prohibited in Sequoia National Forest; rangers have been known to issue tickets. Bring one.
• Towel — No facilities here; a quick-dry towel is your best friend.
• Water Shoes — The rocky riverbank and pool edges are slippery; protect your feet.
• Change of Clothes — You’ll thank yourself for having dry clothes for the hike back up.

Comfort & Protection

• Water Bottle — Soaking in hot mineral water dehydrates you faster than you’d expect. Bring at least 32 oz per person.
• Sunscreen — The canyon offers little shade; UV exposure is real, especially in summer.
• Sunglasses — Glare off the Kern River is intense on sunny days.
• Hat — Lightweight sun hat protects on the open trail to and from the pools.

Food & Personal Items

• Snacks or Picnic — No vendors, no vending machines; pack your own fuel.
• Cash — Nearby Kernville businesses are small and some are cash-preferred.
• Camera — The stone masonry, river views, and Sierra Nevada backdrop are genuinely photogenic. No glass containers of any kind are permitted near the pools.

What to Know Before You Go Remington Hot Springs?

I check this every single time, even for destinations I’ve visited before. Road conditions, fire closures, and flood damage can change overnight in canyon terrain. It takes two minutes and it’s saved me more than one wasted drive.

• Confirm open status before driving: Call the Kern River Ranger District at 760-376-3781 or check fs.usda.gov/sequoia. The site closed in 2024 and has reopened do not assume current status from any travel site.
• No glass containers: Glass is prohibited at the pools. This is strictly enforced and one of the reasons past closures have been threatened. Leave the wine bottle in the car.
• No overnight camping at the springs: The parking area and pools are day-use only. Camping is available 1.7 miles away at Hobo Campground (open April–September) or 2.8 miles away at Sandy Flat Campground (open late May–late October).
• Pack out everything you bring: There are no trash cans at the pools. If you carried it down the hill, you carry it back up. This is non-negotiable — the pools’ continued existence depends on it.
• Dogs are allowed on leash: Keep them leashed and pick up after them. The trail is narrow in spots and the pools are a shared space.
• Arrive early on weekends: The parking area fills by mid-morning on Saturday and Sunday. I’ve seen 30+ people at the pools on a warm weekend. Tuesday at 8 AM is a different experience entirely.
• Seasonal road closures apply: Kern Canyon Road is subject to winter closures. Heavy snowfall or flooding can shut access without much notice. Check road conditions at fs.usda.gov/sequoia before any winter visit.

Things to Do at Remington Hot Springs

The springs themselves are the headline act, but the surrounding Kern River Valley is genuinely rich with things to do — and sourcing this from what’s actually on the map nearby, you won’t be short of options. Whether you’re an adrenaline seeker, a history buff, or someone who just wants to float and eat good food, this corner of Southern California delivers.

• Soak in the Stone Pools – There are four pools in total: three lower pools along the riverbank (a 3’x7′ rectangular tub, a 6’x8′ oval, and an 8’x12′ teardrop-shaped pool) plus the upper Miners Tub 50 feet above. Each has a slightly different temperature and character, with the stone masonry embedded with colored stones and the word “Paradise” written into the steps.
• Swim the Kern River – The river runs right alongside the pools. A rope swing at the site lets braver visitors drop directly from the hot water into cold, rushing Class III rapids — one of the more exhilarating temperature contrasts you’ll ever experience.
• Kern River Whitewater Rafting – Several outfitters in Kernville run guided half-day and full-day rafting trips on the Kern River’s famous rapids, just a short drive upstream. Great for groups.
• Trail of 100 Giants – A paved, wheelchair-accessible loop through a grove of ancient giant sequoias in the Sequoia National Forest. About 45 minutes from the hot springs and utterly awe-inspiring.
• Lake Isabella Recreation – The large reservoir 7 miles east is perfect for boating, kayaking, fishing for largemouth bass, or simply sitting on the shore. The lake is the social hub of the Kern River Valley.
• Silver City Ghost Town – History enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the preserved remnants of this Gold Rush-era mining boomtown, offering a vivid look into California’s mid-1800s past.
• Kern Valley Museum, Kernville – A small but charming local museum at 49 Big Blue Road (open Thursday–Sunday, 10 AM–4 PM) that covers the region’s Indigenous, ranching, and Gold Rush history.
• Hiking in Sequoia National Forest – The Remington Ridge Trail itself can be extended for longer hikes, and the forest offers dozens of routes ranging from flat riverside walks to strenuous summit climbs.

Once you’re done soaking, you’ll want somewhere nearby to eat and rest — and the Kern River Valley has solid options worth knowing before you go.

Where to Stay & Eat Near Remington Hot Springs?

I check this every single time, even for destinations I’ve visited before. Road conditions, fire closures, and flood damage can change overnight in canyon terrain. It takes two minutes and it’s saved me more than one wasted drive.

Hotels Near Remington Hot Springs

• Sequoia Lodge, Kernville – A 14-room riverfront lodge at 16123 Sierra Way, Kernville, CA 93238, right on the “Wild and Scenic” Kern River. Rooms include kitchenettes, free Wi-Fi, and DirecTV. About 20 minutes from the hot springs. A charming, outdoors-focused base camp with easy access to rafting outfitters.
• Kernville Inn, Kernville – A historic family-oriented roadside motel in the heart of Kernville, steps from the river. The original building dates to pre-dam old Kernville. Comfortable, clean, and full of local character — great for budget-conscious travelers who want to be close to everything.
• Lakeview Motel, Lake Isabella – A budget-friendly option on the Lake Isabella side, about 15 minutes from the springs. Simple amenities, affordable rates (around $65/night), and convenient for day-trippers who want a base near the water.
• Lakeshore Lodge, Lake Isabella – A 2-star property with direct lake access, known for its calm atmosphere and waterfront setting. Popular with anglers and kayakers who want to be right on the water.
• Airbnb Mountain Cabin with Hot Tub (Kernville area) – Several private cabins near Kernville are available on Airbnb, some minutes from the hot springs, with private hot tubs, BBQ grills, fire pits, and creek or river access. Ideal for couples or small groups wanting privacy and a splurge-worthy base.
• Hobo Campground (Dispersed / Free Camping) – The closest camping to the hot springs with 35 sites. Free and primitive, it allows you to wake up and walk to the pools before the crowds. Pack in, pack out; no amenities. Overnight parking is also permitted in the Remington lot for up to 14 days.

Restaurants Near Remington Hot Springs

• Kern River Brewing Company, Kernville – Craft brewery and pub about 20 minutes from the hot springs. Serves house-brewed beers alongside burgers, fries, and pub classics. A community favorite after a day on the river; lively atmosphere and great for groups.
• Cheryl’s Diner, Kernville – A beloved local diner known for hearty breakfasts — pancakes, omelets, and classic American comfort food. Friendly staff and a step-back-in-time vibe; perfect for a pre-soak morning fuel-up.
• El Rio Mexican Restaurant, Kernville – Casual Mexican spot right in Kernville serving generous portions of enchiladas, tacos, and burritos. Affordable, reliable, and a solid option for a post-soak dinner.
• Kern River Outfitters Café Area, Kernville – Light snacks, sandwiches, and refreshments near the outfitter hub in Kernville. Convenient stop before heading to the springs.
• The Cracked Egg, Kernville – Another beloved breakfast and brunch spot in town with a devoted local following. Eggs, waffles, and coffee in a warm, casual setting.
• Big Blue Bear Restaurant, Kernville – A casual, family-friendly spot in Kernville offering a varied menu and riverside charm. Good option for a relaxed meal with a mix of appetizers and entrées.

Remington Hot Springs Reviews: What Do People Think?

Across Google, AllTrails, and Yelp, Remington Hot Springs consistently earns a 4.5-star rating, with reviewers repeatedly praising the unique hand-crafted stone pools, the roaring Kern River backdrop, and the sheer magic of soaking in free, natural mineral water in the middle of nowhere. 

When I visited, I was struck by the same thing so many others mention you can see the genuine love and craftsmanship poured into those tubs. Couples love the romantic, rustic atmosphere at sunrise; adventurous groups adore the rope swing into the river. The recurring ask from seasoned visitors? Come early on weekdays, bring a trash bag, and treat the place like the irreplaceable treasure it is.

My Final Verdict: Is Remington Hot Springs Worth the Drive?

Remington Hot Springs is one of the few free natural soaking spots left in Southern California that still feels like it belongs to the people who love it. It’s right for anyone willing to leave no trace, show up on a weekday, and treat volunteer-built infrastructure with the respect it deserves. It is not right for anyone who wants amenities, parking lot convenience, or a guaranteed crowd-free experience on a Saturday in October.

The detail I keep thinking about, long after that Tuesday morning visit, is the word “Paradise” in the steps. Someone pressed that into wet concrete years ago. Every person who leaves the place better than they found it is the reason it’s still there.

FAQs

Q. Are the Remington Hot Springs coordinates easy to find? 

Yes. The GPS coordinates for the parking area are 35.5757° N, 118.5529° W. Search “Remington Hot Springs” on Google Maps or AllTrails for an accurate pin. Download offline maps before arriving since cell service is unreliable on Kern Canyon Road.

Q. Can I camp at Remington Hot Springs? 

Overnight parking at the trailhead lot is permitted for up to 14 days. The nearest developed campground is Hobo Campground, 1.7 miles away, open April–September. Sandy Flat Campground is another option 2.8 miles away.

Q. Is nudity allowed at Remington Hot Springs? 

The site has a traditional clothing-optional culture among regular visitors. However, nudity is technically prohibited in Sequoia National Forest under federal regulations, and rangers may issue citations. Swimwear is always a safe and respectful choice.

Q. Was Remington Hot Springs destroyed? 

No, the springs themselves have not been physically destroyed — unlike nearby Miracle Hot Springs, which were permanently removed by the Forest Service. Remington has faced temporary closures due to safety incidents and concerns over vandalism and overcrowding, but the pools remain intact and are maintained by volunteers. 

Q. Is there an entry fee or parking fee? 

No. Entry to Remington Hot Springs is completely free. Parking is free. No permit is required for day use. Overnight camping in the parking lot is also free for up to 14 days. Volunteers maintain the pools; donations to the Kern River Hot Springs Angels are always appreciated.

Q. Are dogs allowed at Remington Hot Springs? 

Yes, dogs are welcome on the trail and in the parking area. They must remain on a leash at all times. Dogs are not permitted inside the hot spring pools themselves. Clean up after your pet — waste bags in the lot are much appreciated by other visitors.