It is less than an hour-drive from Bakersfield.
Due to its convenient location, this place is always crowded in weekends.
Practically free campground
When you have a chance to go to Bakersfield, the ninth-largest cities in California, I would recommend to go a little bit further to Remington Hot Springs.
The winding road in the mountain was paved to the parking lot entrance.
Actually this was my second time to come here.
In summer, there were so many vehicles in the parking area at 6 am, even under COVID-19 pandemic!
Let me tell you advance; there are only four small pools here.
Pictures are in two different seasons, as I visited again in winter, overwhelmed by too many people in summer.
Officially there was a NO CAMPING / DAY USE ONLY sign, however I saw many campers actually.
As there was a porta potty and waste containers, primitive camping looked practically possible.
Such conditions seem to make this place very popular, in addition to free of charge and the convenient location.
It is only a 0.2-mile to hot springs from the parking lot.
The trail is well-maintained, but due to the fragile slope, you need attention.
Upper pool / mountain-view
Right before getting to the Kern River, I found a small concrete-made tub in the left side.
The decorative stones were beautiful on the bottom.
The custom is clothing optional.
Water in the tub was lukewarm, 82 degrees F.
The waterflow was fine, so I realized that it was not hot from the source.
Lower pools / river-view
Next I saw troubled water of the Kern River.
The Kern is well known for its danger, and is sometimes referred to as the "killer Kern."
The number of deaths listed are over 300.
Remington Hot Springs is facing such dynamic spectacle.
The riverbank is firmly cemented.
Three tubs are embedded.
The source of the spring is on the bottom of the smallest rectangular tub.
The water outlet is established vertically.
water temp was 106 degrees F, good for long dipping.
Clear and colorless water was comfortable as the waterflow was sufficient.
Spilt water goes to the second tub located in upstream of the river.
Between the second tub and the third pool, there is a valve for adjustment.
This system enables the third tub, which tends to be dirty to be cleaned efficiently.
Personally I want this hot spring to be a fee-charging place and maintained by authorities to some extent.
It is natural for many people to gather at such wonderful place, isn't it?
Summary
Remington Hot Springs, Sequoia National Forest, California, U.S.
My rating
Type: Undeveloped
Rule: Clothing optional
Chemical use: No
Water temp: Up to 106 degrees F
