Driving on Highway 178 through the beautiful Kern River Canyon about 40 miles north of Bakersfield, you’ll encounter one of the region’s best-kept secrets—Miracle Hot Springs. In the early 20th century, there was a spa-resort here that took advantage of the hot springs’ 119°F water. It burnt down in 1975, and now all that remains are some stones that were stacked to form bathing pools.

From our campground (described below), we walked over the trails until we found the unmarked site. The water level was low that day, but there were still three separate bathing pools of differing temperatures. The heat and sulfuric smell of the upper pools drove my kids below to where the spring water mixes with the river. I soaked (more like steamed) in the upper pool. We had a good time there climbing over the rocks as we relaxed for a couple of hours, then dressed and walked back to camp.

The kids Hobo Campground is a primitive campsite. But, for what it lacks in facilities, it makes up for in scenery, tranquility, and proximity to Miracle Hot Springs. Reservations can be made by calling 760/376-1815, but it’s rarely full. A volunteer attendant lives in a camper on site. The campground itself is situated at the base of the Kern River Canyon and offers somewhat secluded tent sites along the river. Fire Rings and water are available at each site. Firewood is readily available along if you look on the trails out from the camp a bit. One can find a shower, Laundromat, and groceries 5 miles away in nearby Lake Isabella. We cooked some fantastic burgers over the fire there, played games, and settled in for a great night’s sleep.