High in the eastern Sierra near Markleeville, the Grover Hot Springs State Park invites travelers. The park offers soothing mineral pools and alpine meadows. It provides all‑season adventure just west of Markleeville, California.
What Makes Grover Hot Springs State Park Unique
At nearly 5,900 ft elevation, Grover amounts to a rare blend of natural hot springs and high‑country recreation. Geothermally heated mineral water flows into a classic hot pool. It also feeds a cooler swim pool. Both are tucked amid pine forests and granite peaks. Seasonal weather swings—from snowy blizzards to sun‑soaked summer days—deliver diverse experiences, while wildflowers, wildlife and historic trails complete the alpine picture.
Top Activities & Amenities
Hot Springs & Swimming
The park’s centerpiece is its pool complex: a 102–104 °F hot‑soak pool and adjacent cool swimming pool. Lifeguards are on duty during peak season. Off‑season hours change and mid‑week closures apply—reservations are required for hot pool soak sessions.
Camping & RV Sites
A forested campground has 76 family sites. These accommodate tents and trailers up to 27 ft, as well as RVs. The sites come with fire rings, picnic tables, metal bear lockers, and drinking water. Winter shifts campers to a smaller day‑use loop with shorter RV allowance. No hookups or dump station are available.
Picnic Areas & Group Facilities
Paved picnic sites with BBQ grills, fire rings and drinking fountains line shaded creekbanks. Forested settings and nearby playground space make day visits comfortable and convenient.
Hiking & Nature Trails
Trails range from ADA-accessible boardwalk around the hot meadow to the 1.5‑mile Burnside Lake Trail with waterfall and 5.5‑mile extension to Burnside Lake in adjacent Forest Service land. Backcountry paths stretch into Charity Valley and toward alpine lakes.
Winter Recreation
Snow transforms Grover into a snowy wonderland. Cross‑country skiing, snowshoeing, sledding, and snowmobiling are popular near trail edges and meadows during the winter season. Nearby roads are often plowed.
Fishing & Creek Activities
Hot Springs Creek is stocked with trout in summer months, and also holds bass. Streamside spots offer relaxation and wildlife observation near campground loops.
Interpretive Programs & Nature Center
The visitor kiosk offers wildlife displays, park maps and token sales. Summer amphitheater programs include Junior Ranger activities, campfire talks and creek ecology presentations. Interpretive exhibits explain geology, flora, fauna and local history.
Support Facilities
Flush restrooms, outdoor token showers (summer only), drinking water, and accessible parking are available near both campground and pool complex. Showers operate via $1‑tokens for 5 minutes of hot water.
Practical Visitor Tips
- Fees & Reservations: Day‑use parking is $8 ($7 senior). Campsites run $35/night summer, $25 winter; additional vehicles $8/night. Soak sessions are $10/adult, $5 child, by reservation.
- Pool Hours: Hot pool closed Wednesdays off‑season, Thanksgiving and Christmas; also closes during thunderstorms—call ahead.
- Packing: Dress in layers—alpine temperatures vary dramatically. Bring swimwear, towels, snow gear in winter, and water shoes for pools and creek.
- Pets: Leashed dogs welcome in campground and picnic areas, but prohibited in pool complex and trails.
- Campfire Safety: Fires permitted in rings only; collect no wood. Quiet hours are 10 p.m.–6 a.m., generators allowed 10 a.m.–8 p.m.
- Wildlife: Black bears, coyotes and bobcats may appear. Store food in provided lockers day and night—bear lockers are mandatory.
- Winter Conditions: Roads may snow-packed or icy; carry chains or traction devices. Winter campground sometimes closed—check before arrival.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly paths around meadow and pool. Accessible restrooms and parking provided.
Local Insight & Hidden Gem
For a tranquil experience, soak in the hot pool before sunrise—steaming water against snowy pines is magical in winter. Hike the waterfall trail right afterward—early light catches mist through granite cliffs. Spring brings alpine blooms around Burnside Lake and bird song along creekside. Parents love daytime visits for kids; come evening to join ranger‑led campfire stories under starry skies. Finally, don’t miss ascending a side trail off Burnside Lake toward Charity Valley—few explore further and you’ll often have a snow-draped basin entirely to yourself.