These Free-To-Visit California Hot Springs Are The Perfect Budget Mountain Getaway

Tucked away in Kern River Canyon of California's Sierra Nevada foothills, Remington Hot Springs stands out for its striking natural beauty. Unlike many resorts, these springs are free and open all year-round, making them stand out as a super budget-friendly travel destination. With the steep canyon walls and granite formations, Remington Hot Springs is a natural sanctuary where you can relax in the steaming pools.

Situated about 36 miles northeast of Bakersfield, Remington Hot Springs is accessible through Kern Canyon Road (State Route 178). From Bakersfield, the drive takes just under an hour, but if you are visiting from Los Angeles, it takes three hours to get to the springs. You can park near the trailhead, then take the short but steep hike down to the riverside pools. The pools were carved out by volunteers and locals in the 1990s who wanted to preserve the springs as a community resource. Since then, volunteers have maintained the springs, decorating the springs and pool areas with mosaics and art. Unlike many commercial hot springs, Remington has retained its natural beauty, creating a community atmosphere where visitors share stories while enjoying the mineral-rich waters.

Unlike commercial hot spring resorts that charge anywhere from $20 to $50 per person, these California's rare geothermal treasures do not have an entrance fee. At the springs, you will find three man-made soaking pools lined with stone and concrete, filled with warm mineral water that flows from geothermal vents. Temperatures usually range from 100°F to 105°F, perfect for soothing sore muscles after a hike or a long drive, or a great romantic honeymoon destination in the US for couples on a budget. Each pool is located just steps from the Kern River, allowing you to alternate between hot and cold plunges. From the pools, you will enjoy beautiful views of the pine forests and canyon walls.

The springs are open year-round, offering different experiences depending on the season. In winter, the pools feel like a cozy retreat against the crisp mountain air, while in summer, visitors often take a refreshing dip in the Kern River before soaking again. Since there's no fee, all you need is a towel, water shoes, and a sense of adventure. Early mornings and weekdays are the best times to visit if you want to avoid crowds, as this beloved spot is becoming more popular.

Remington Hot Springs is a getaway to some of California's most beautiful outdoor destinations. Just a short drive away is Lake Isabella, one of Southern California's largest reservoirs, popular for water adventures. This reservoir attracts anglers from the region hoping to catch bass, trout, or catfish. You will enjoy fishing in the calm waters surrounded by beautiful scenery. The Sequoia National Forest is a short distance away and offers numerous outdoor adventures. If you are into hiking, the trails from the national forest pass through sequoia groves. The Trail of 100 Giants is a must-hike, giving you a chance to walk among centuries-old trees in a family-friendly 1.5-mile loop.

The Kern River, about 35 miles north of the hot springs, is a whitewater rafting hot spot. Some local outfitters in Kernville provide rafting trips, ranging from beginner-friendly to advanced rapids. Its proximity to Kern River Canyon also makes it one of the must-see destinations for your ultimate West Coast road trip. Trailblazers, the area has something for you, too. Try the Whiskey Flat Trail, which follows the river's edge, and you can cool off in the swimming holes along the trail.