File:Lake Isabella Prescribed Burn Piles (52782387353).jpg — public domain
Scovern Hot Springs, historically known as Agua Caliente, delivers impressively hot 133°F water in the Kern River Valley of the Southern Sierra Nevada. The 69-degree temperature differential makes this one of the region's premier thermal features.
The spring sits at 2,504 feet elevation virtually roadside, just 27 feet from the nearest access point. The landscape transitions between high desert and mountain terrain, with sagebrush, juniper, and scattered conifers. Lake Isabella, one of California's largest reservoirs, lies nearby, creating a striking contrast between cool alpine water and hot thermal springs.
History of Scovern Hot Springs
Scovern Hot Springs, also known as Neills Hot Springs and Hot Springs House, was a former settlement in the Kern River Valley. The thermal springs have attracted visitors for centuries, supporting both indigenous use and later Euro-American settlement.
This roadside spring is highly accessible, requiring minimal walking. The nearby Pioneer Point Campground at Lake Isabella offers nearby recreation. Visit spring or fall for optimal temperatures. The area experiences significant winter snow at elevation.
Is Scovern Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Scovern Hot Springs offers an accessible hot spring experience — great for a day trip.
Annual Precip: 11.8 in
Annual Snow: 17.9 in
December
Air 47°F · Water 133°F · +86° contrast
January
Air 48°F · Water 133°F · +85° contrast
February
Air 49°F · Water 133°F · +84° contrast
December offers 37°F more contrast than July
Overview
Reservations not being accepted. Pioneer Point is a high-desert campground near Lake Isabella in the Sequoia National Forest. The 11,000-acre lake is actually a reservoir, one of California's largest, and it marks the division between the Upper and Lower Kern Rivers.
Recreation
The focal point of this year-round campground is Lake Isabella, where campers can swim, water ski, windsurf and more.
The lake is known for trout fishing during the colder months, offering anglers a variety o...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Pioneer Point
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
0 miles from Lake Isabella, CA
USGS Quad: LAKE ISABELLA SOUTH · PP 492: 149.0 · Circ 790: 60.0 · NOAA: 3.0 · AMS Map: BAKERSFIELD
What is the water temperature at Scovern Hot Springs?
Scovern Hot Springs has a water temperature of 133°F (56°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Scovern Hot Springs located?
Scovern Hot Springs is located in Kern County, California at 2,504 feet elevation, near Lake Isabella. Coordinates: 35.6200°N, 118.4730°W.
How do I get to Scovern Hot Springs?
Scovern Hot Springs has Roadside road access (90 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Scovern Hot Springs?
Yes, Pioneer Point is located nearby (2.2 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Scovern Hot Springs?
At 133°F, Scovern Hot Springs is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Scovern Hot Springs crowded?
Scovern Hot Springs is accessible from a paved road, making it easy to reach. Weekends and holidays may be busier — consider visiting on a weekday for a quieter experience.
What should I bring to Scovern Hot Springs?
Essentials for Scovern 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.