Overview
Hand-built tubs on a fast river
Remington Hot Springs sit on the Kern River in Sequoia National Forest, close enough to feel like a quick stop, but rugged enough that you still need to pay attention. The soaking pools here are informal, built up with stone and concrete, and they change with river flow, sediment, and occasional clean-outs. Think of it as a riverside soak spot that happens to be popular, not a maintained facility.
What makes it worth the detour
You get options. The tubs are clustered close together and usually run at different comfort levels because of how hot water mixes with river water. On cooler days it can be a perfect warm-up after a Kern River swim. On hot summer afternoons, it can feel like too much, especially with little shade.
Set expectations before you go
This is not a quiet secret. Parking, noise, and crowding are the biggest variables. If you want a calmer soak, arrive early, keep your visit short, and treat it like a shared space that changes from week to week.
Location & Access
Where it is
Remington Hot Springs are on the Kern River in Sequoia National Forest near Bodfish, accessed from the Remington Hot Springs Trail off the Highway 178 corridor.
By car
You drive to a small dirt parking area, then walk down a short but steep path to the river. The Forest Service describes it as a trail access, not a developed day-use complex, so plan for uneven footing and no services at the water.
The walk down
The descent is quick, but it can feel sketchy in loose dirt, heat, or after rain. Wear shoes with traction, keep your hands free, and expect the climb back up to feel harder than the distance suggests.
Seasonality and conditions
Conditions shift with river level and weather. After storms or high flows, tubs can be damaged or buried, and the river edge can change. If the Kern is roaring, treat that as a sign to be extra conservative.
What to bring
Water, sun protection, and a small packable towel. Add river shoes if you plan to cool off in the Kern. A trash bag is practical here, wind and crowds make litter more likely than at a remote spring.
Suitability & Accessibility
Remington works best for confident day-trippers who are comfortable with informal, shared hot springs and don’t need facilities. The hike is short, but the terrain and the river make it feel more serious than a “park and soak.”
Couples and small groups
Good when you can arrive at off-peak times. The vibe changes fast when it’s crowded, so flexibility matters more than planning a perfect sunset soak.
Families
I don’t recommend it as a kid-focused stop. The steep path, hard edges, and immediate river proximity make supervision constant. If you bring kids anyway, keep it brief and choose a quiet time.
Mobility realities
There are no paved routes, ramps, or stable surfaces down to the tubs. If you use a wheelchair or need reliable handrails, this will be frustrating at best and unsafe at worst. Plan a different spring with managed access.
What it isn’t
It isn’t a resort, and it isn’t a guaranteed “perfect tub” day. You’re visiting a place that changes, and you’re sharing it with everyone else who found it on a map.
Safety & Etiquette
River hazard is the big one
The Kern River can be cold, fast, and unforgiving. Don’t assume you can safely “dip” in every season, and don’t soak right at the waterline if current or footing looks questionable.
Heat management
Hot water plus full sun can sneak up on you. Keep soaks short, cool off out of the tub, and drink water. If you feel lightheaded, get out early, not after you’ve tried to push through it.
Footing and sharp edges
Expect slick algae on rock, loose sand on the trail, and uneven tub rims. Move slowly, especially when entering and exiting. Water shoes help more than flip-flops.
Etiquette in a crowded place
Rotate. Share space. Keep voices down, especially if other groups are trying to keep it mellow. If clothing optional use is happening, treat it as normal and give people personal space.
Leave it usable
Don’t scrub tubs with soap or dump anything into the river. Pack out trash, including small bits like bottle caps and broken hair ties, those are what linger.
FAQs
How hard is the hike to Remington Hot Springs?
It’s short, but steep. Expect a quick descent on an uneven path, then a climb back up that feels harder in heat. Good shoes matter more than mileage.
Is Remington Hot Springs clothing optional?
It’s commonly treated as clothing optional by visitors, but it’s not managed like a designated nude facility. Bring what you’re comfortable wearing and follow the tone on-site.
Are there bathrooms or facilities?
No developed facilities at the tubs. Treat it as a wild site, bring your own water, and plan to handle basics before you arrive.
When is the best time to visit?
Early morning is usually calmer and cooler. In summer, midday heat can make the approach and soaking uncomfortable.
What’s the main safety issue?
The Kern River. Fast water and unstable edges are the risk. If the river looks intimidating, keep your visit conservative and avoid the waterline.