File:M 3511827 se 11 060 20220703.tif — public domain
Democrat Hot Springs flows at 115°F from the north side of State Route 178 along the Kern River, emerging 51 degrees above the ambient temperature of 63.6°F. Named for the Democratic political party during California's mining-era settlement period, this spring sits at 2,133 feet elevation within Sequoia National Forest.
The spring occupies a spectacular Southern Sierra Nevada canyon setting along the Kern River's south bank, accessible by a short walk of roughly 456 feet from Route 178. The landscape combines river recreation, forest habitat, and dramatic canyon walls, creating a distinctive environment where thermal water meets the river's cold flow.
History of Democrat Hot Springs
Democrat Hot Springs takes its name from the Democratic Party, reflecting a historical naming tradition in California's remote mining camps and mountain settlements. The spring emerged as a notable thermal feature in the Kern River canyon, known to travelers and miners navigating this important route through the Sierra.
The spring sits within Sequoia National Forest with open public access from Route 178 via a short walk. Oak Flat Lookout, a 1934-era fire tower at 4,900 feet elevation in the Greenhorn Mountains, sits 3.9 kilometers away offering panoramic views. Nearby Sandy Flat and other Lower Kern River campgrounds provide camping options. Visit April through October when canyon conditions favor access and exploration.
Is Democrat Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Overnight camping trips
Democrat Hot Springs is well suited for hot spring soaking and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 13.0 in
Annual Snow: 8.6 in
December
Air 47°F · Water 115°F · +68° contrast
January
Air 48°F · Water 115°F · +67° contrast
February
Air 49°F · Water 115°F · +66° contrast
December offers 36°F more contrast than July
Overview
The Oak Flat Lookout sits the Greenhorn Mountains in the Sequoia National Forest and Sequoia National Monument, about an hour from Bakersfield, California. Perched at an elevation of 4,900 feet, the tower overlooks the scenic Kern River and Kern River Valley and has panoramic views of the mountains, river and valley.
Oak Flat Lookout was constructed in 1934 to provide fire detection views along the Kern River Canyon. In the early years of the Forest Service, lookouts provided a cru...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Oak Flat Lookout
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
USGS Quad: DEMOCRAT HOT SPRINGS 7.5 · PP 492: 152.0 · NOAA: 7.0 · AMS Map: BAKERSFIELD
What is the water temperature at Democrat Hot Springs?
Democrat Hot Springs has a water temperature of 115°F (46°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Democrat Hot Springs located?
Democrat Hot Springs is located in Kern County, California at 2,133 feet elevation, near Bodfish. Coordinates: 35.5280°N, 118.6650°W.
How do I get to Democrat Hot Springs?
Democrat Hot Springs has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Route 178 (458 ft from the road).
Is Democrat Hot Springs free to visit?
Democrat Hot Springs has Open access. It is managed by US Forest Service.
Can I camp near Democrat Hot Springs?
Yes, Oak Flat Lookout is located nearby (2.4 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Democrat Hot Springs?
At 115°F, Democrat Hot Springs is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Democrat Hot Springs crowded?
Democrat Hot Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Democrat Hot Springs?
Essentials for Democrat Hot Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in. The water is over 110°F — test the temperature before entering and watch for scalding near the source.