At 147°F, the source water at Grovers Hot Springs is hot enough to cause burns. Some hot springs this hot have cooler side pools or downstream areas suitable for soaking — always test the water temperature before entering.
File:Man scattering ashes, Grover Hot Springs State Park.jpg — cc by 2.0
Grovers Hot Springs emerges at a powerful 147 degrees Fahrenheit in Toiyabe National Forest, displaying a remarkable 100-degree temperature rise above ambient in harsh alpine terrain.
At 5,880 feet elevation approximately 333 yards from the nearest road, the spring sits in spectacular Sierra Nevada landscape dominated by conifers and rocky terrain. A short walk through mountain forest leads to thermal features where hot water emerges into cool mountain air, creating steam and visible geothermal expression against snow-covered peaks visible from higher elevations.
History of Grovers Hot Springs
Located in tectonically active Sierra Nevada terrain, Grovers Hot Springs represents high-elevation geothermal expression along structural pathways that channel heat from deep in the crust. The extreme winter snowfall—averaging 149 inches annually—means the feature operates as a dramatic thermal oasis during snow season when few other natural heat sources are accessible.
Access via short walk from parking area; best visited summer through early fall when mountain roads are open and trails are passable without snow. Winter access requires specialized equipment and expertise. The nearby Silver Lake East Campground provides summer base for accessing this and other high-elevation thermal features.
Is Grovers Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Grovers Hot Springs is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and overnight camping trips.
Monthly Climate
32°Jan
32°Feb
36°Mar
41°Apr
49°May
61°Jun
69°Jul
68°Aug
61°Sep
50°Oct
38°Nov
30°Dec
Annual Precip: 28.9 inAnnual Snow: 149.0 in
Best Time to Visit
DecemberAir 30°F · Water 147°F · +117° contrast
JanuaryAir 32°F · Water 147°F · +115° contrast
FebruaryAir 32°F · Water 147°F · +115° contrast
December offers 39°F more contrast than July
Nearby Camping
Silver Lake East Eldorado2.8 mi away
Overview
Silver Lake East is located 50 miles east of Jackson, California, just a short distance from the shores of Silver lake, where activities like boating, fishing, swimming and hiking, provide campers with the perfect outdoors retreat.
Numerous trails leaving the campground connect with the lake and swimming beaches. Silver Lake West is adjacent to Silver Lake East on the other side of Highway 88, and offers additional trails and access to the Silver Fork of the American River.
Recrea...
What is the water temperature at Grovers Hot Springs?
Grovers Hot Springs has a water temperature of 147°F (64°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Grovers Hot Springs located?
Grovers Hot Springs is located in Douglas County, California at 5,880 feet elevation, near Gardnerville Ranchos. Coordinates: 38.6990°N, 119.8460°W.
How do I get to Grovers Hot Springs?
Grovers Hot Springs has Short Walk road access (0.2 mi from the road).
Is Grovers Hot Springs free to visit?
Grovers Hot Springs has Open access. It is managed by US Forest Service.
Can I camp near Grovers Hot Springs?
Yes, Silver Lake East Eldorado is located nearby (2.8 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Grovers Hot Springs?
The water at Grovers Hot Springs reaches 147°F, which can cause severe burns. Do not enter the source pool directly — look for cooled side pools or downstream areas where the water has cooled to a safe temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Grovers Hot Springs crowded?
Grovers Hot Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Grovers Hot Springs?
Essentials for Grovers 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.
Temperature
147°F
WarmHotBoiling
Water Temp147°F (64°C)
Avg Air Temp47°F
Above Ambient+100°F
Perfect soaking weatherMarch
Access
Open
Road AccessShort Walk
Distance to Road0.2 mi
Land
OwnershipFederal
AgencyUS Forest Service
DesignationNational Forest
UnitToiyabe National Forest
ManagerUS Forest Service
Protection3 - Protected, subject to extractive use
