California Hot Springs

## Overview California Hot Springs is a small, historic community nestled in the southern Sierra Nevada foothills of Tulare County, California, at an elevation of approximately 3,100 feet. Located at GPS coordinates 35.8816, -118.6656, this area has long been known for its naturally occurring geothermal hot springs, which have drawn visitors for well over a century. The hot springs in this area were historically used by the Tübatulabal people, the indigenous inhabitants of the Kern River Valley region, long before European settlers arrived. In the mid-1800s, the springs gained wider attention during California's settlement era, and a resort was eventually established to take advantage of the warm mineral waters. The community that grew up around the springs took its name directly from these geothermal features. The springs are fed by geothermally heated groundwater that rises along fault lines in the Sierra Nevada batholith. Water temperatures at various vents in the area have historically been reported to range from warm to quite hot, typical of the geothermal activity found along the western slope of the southern Sierra. The mineral content of the water has traditionally been considered to have soothing properties, and the springs have historically been used for bathing and relaxation — though visitors should note that water safety cannot be guaranteed and conditions may change over time. ## Directions 1. From Bakersfield, head east on CA-178 (Kern Canyon Road) toward Lake Isabella. 2. At Lake Isabella, turn north onto CA-155 (Wofford Heights Boulevard). 3. Continue on CA-155 west through Wofford Heights and over the mountains. 4. Turn north (right) onto Hot Springs Road / County Road M-56, following signs toward California Hot Springs. 5. Continue approximately 10 miles along Hot Springs Road until you reach the small community of California Hot Springs. Alternatively, from Porterville: 1. Head east on CA-190 toward Springville. 2. In Springville, turn south onto Balch Park Road / County Road M-208. 3. Follow the winding mountain roads south and east, connecting to Hot Springs Road and continuing to California Hot Springs. Note: Roads in this area are narrow and winding mountain routes. Some may be subject to seasonal closures or rough conditions, particularly in winter. Check road conditions before traveling. ## What to Expect California Hot Springs is a quiet, rural mountain community surrounded by oak woodlands and mixed conifer forest on the western slope of the southern Sierra Nevada. The area sits between Sequoia National Forest lands and the foothills of the Kern River watershed, offering a scenic and relatively remote setting. The hot springs themselves are the main attraction. Historically, there has been a resort or bathhouse facility in the area that channels the geothermal water into pools for soaking. Visitors should check ahead for current access, hours, and any fees, as facilities and ownership may change over time. The surrounding area offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, and exploring the nearby Sequoia National Forest. The community is small, with very limited services — visitors should plan to bring supplies and fuel up before arriving. Cell phone service may be limited or nonexistent in parts of this area. The best times to visit are spring through fall, when mountain roads are reliably open and the weather is pleasant. Summer temperatures are warm but considerably cooler than the valley floor below, making this a popular escape from Central Valley heat. Winters can bring snow and cold temperatures at this elevation, and road access may be affected.