Tucked into a mountain meadow at 5,900 feet in Alpine County, Grover Hot Springs State Park draws visitors year-round to its natural hot spring pool fed by six mineral springs. The 553-acre park sits just west of Markleeville, one of California’s smallest county seats, surrounded by the peaks and pine forests of the Sierra Nevada.

The main attraction is the hot pool complex, where spring water is cooled from its natural 148°F to a comfortable 102-104°F in a concrete pool maintained by the state. A separate cold pool sits alongside it, and alternating between the two is a tradition. The pools stay open in winter, making a soak in the steaming water while snow blankets the meadow one of the park’s most memorable experiences.

Beyond the springs, trails wind through the surrounding Toiyabe National Forest. The Burnside Lake Trail climbs through wildflower meadows in summer, and the easy Hot Springs Creek Trail follows the water through stands of Jeffrey pine and white fir. Wildlife sightings are common — mule deer graze the meadow at dawn and dusk, and the area supports a healthy black bear population, so proper food storage is essential.

The campground offers 76 sites with flush toilets and coin-operated showers, though reservations fill fast during summer months. Spring and fall bring smaller crowds and pleasant temperatures, while winter visitors come specifically for the hot-cold contrast of poolside soaking in the snow. Summer highs reach the low 80s, making it a cool escape from the Central Valley heat.

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