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Lake Isabella and Kern River Hot Springs: Remington and More

Last updated October 22, 2026 · 2 min read

Popular searches:Isabella Lake Hot Springs · Isabella Hot Springs · Hot Springs near Kernville

The Kern River Canyon, between Bakersfield and Lake Isabella, has a string of hot springs on the banks of the river. They are the closest natural soaks to Bakersfield and a popular stop on the drive to Kernville and the Sequoia National Forest.

Remington Hot Springs

Remington Hot Springs is the best known. Hot water feeds a few rock-and-cement tubs on the river bank below Highway 178. The trail down is short but steep and loose, so wear shoes with grip. The tubs are free, small and busy on weekends; go early on a weekday for a quiet soak.

Miracle Hot Springs

Miracle Hot Springs sits beside the river near Hobo Campground. The built pools here have been damaged, removed and rebuilt over the years, so conditions change. Check the Sequoia National Forest’s current notices before you plan around it.

Further down the canyon

Delonegha Hot Springs and Democrat Hot Springs lie lower in the canyon toward Bakersfield. Democrat is on private land, and much of the old resort is closed. Yates Hot Springs is recorded nearby at a comfortable temperature.

Kern River safety

The Kern is one of the deadliest rivers in California. Its water is cold, the current is stronger than it looks, and rocks are slick. Never swim from the hot springs into the river, keep children out of the water’s edge, and do not soak after drinking.

Planning a trip from Bakersfield

Take Highway 178 east from Bakersfield into the canyon. The road is narrow and winding with few places to turn, so note your pullout in advance. Lake Isabella and Kernville have food, fuel and campgrounds. For more options, see hot springs near Bakersfield, the California map and our California hot springs guide.

Springs in this guide

Frequently asked questions

Are there hot springs near Lake Isabella?

Yes. Remington and Miracle hot springs are in the Kern River Canyon about 10 miles west of Lake Isabella, and Delonegha and Democrat hot springs are further down the canyon toward Bakersfield.

Are there hot springs in Bakersfield, CA?

There are no hot springs in Bakersfield itself. The closest are in the Kern River Canyon along Highway 178, roughly 35 to 50 miles northeast of the city.

How do you get to Remington Hot Springs?

Remington is off Highway 178 in the lower Kern Canyon, below the road on the river bank. Park in the small pullout and take the short, steep trail down. Use the coordinates on the spring page.

Is it safe to swim in the Kern River near the hot springs?

No. The Kern River is fast, cold and has claimed hundreds of lives. Soak only in the pools, stay out of the current and supervise children closely.