indian grinding rock state historic park

My wife and I enjoyed this State Park on February 28, 2015. The young man working in the interpretive center was eager to share his knowledge about the park and its original inhabitants. He was quite knowledgeable and his enthusiasm was infectious! (I wish I remembered his name!) After spending time in the center, we enjoyed a quick hike the docent recommended -- through chaparral, pine and oak trees. A very interesting park and one I would recommend to anyone traveling nearby.

Indian Grinding Rock has an interesting museum to visit. It tells about the history of the area. The museum has limited hours so if you see it open (a few hours) see that first. The outside Indian huts and grinding rock meeting area is then worthwhile to see.I found the numerous petroglyph told a lot about the history of the area.While we just were there for a day visit, there is camping available at the park as well.

Ok, I admit it, we stopped because I needed to use the restroom. We were surprised and pleased how interesting this park has become. My recollection as a kid was this was just a wide spot in the road, but it has really changed in the best possible way. The friendly Park employees mentioned the park has received substantial support from the Jackson Rancheria, and it shows pride of place. Their efforts to preserve and enhance Native American history in the area and educate visitors are really first rate. There was a Guide outside who was eager to answer questions, and showed us around. We ended up staying two very enjoyable hours. And yes, the restrooms were clean.

Introduction to the indians and history of the area. Covered indians of the Tahoe/Sierra area and their struggle to survive the land.

I visited with my daughter and her husband who recently moved to Northern California from So Cal. Native Americans sites are my thing and I urged them to take me to this state park. We were all pleased! Beautiful drive, not far off the main highway. Excellent interpretive center with friendly, knowledgable docents and superior displays. It provides an excellent learning opportunity for all ages. Then a short walk to the grinding holes which were spectacular. Such a beautiful setting made me understand that it was no wonder the Miwok gathered for hundreds of years. Must see if in the area. Five stars. Jan San Nicolas, Poway CA

This historical site is worth the little side trip in the foothills.The museum was closed when we were there,but it still was educational.The displays are documented and easily accessible.It is a lovely landscape even in the heat of summer. And, importantly, the restrooms are spotless!

As a family who travels with their dog, we often look for dog friendly parks, hikes, and attractions. This state park allows dogs in some areas like the paved paths and the big grinding rock viewing area, but not on the hiking trails. We were disappointed by this. But overall it is a really interesting place to visit. It's educational and has a great museum. We paid $8 for day pass parking and the restrooms were exceptionally clean, which is greatly appreciated!

Bring your kids for family fun, you will enjoy the local history. My husband and decided to stop on the Way to the town of Volcano. It was interesting and fun.

Interesting place to take your kids. Tours are full of information and the gift shop has lots of interesting items

Gorgeous setting, museum allowed our dog inside, walking paths to take you to the grinding rock, meeting house, etc. Picnic areas, restrooms. There is also a very nice campground attached to the park.

Anyone traveling the back country roads near Pine Grove California would be well served to take an hour or so to enjoy the peaceful and educational setting to be found at this little known State Park. Sometimes some of the least known attractions can be some of the best. I feel this park fills that bill. Check it out! Whether you love pre-Spanish California indigenous history or just like a quite peaceful location in the forest to "wander"...Indian Grinding Rock State Park is a spot to place at the top of your list.

We appreciated our visit - no one else was there at the time. If in the area, spend some time there - much better than visiting an Indian casino. Here is some late September 2013 news:Thanks to a historic agreement between the state and half a dozen local Indian tribes, California Indians are performing ceremonial dances again at one of the most sacred sites in Indian Country – the Chaw’se Roundhouse in Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park.The roundhouse – which many Indians consider their church – was shut down five years ago after a fire compromised the roof and made the 60-foot-wide wooden structure unsafe. Now the roof and most of the structure has been removed and will be burned and returned to earth.Read more here: http://www.sacbee.com/2013/09/28/5778048/state-parks-officials-and-tribes.html#mi_rss=History#storylink=cpyRead more here: http://www.mercedsunstar.com/2013/09/28/3249480_state-parks-officials-and-tribes.html#storylink=cpyhttp://www.mercedsunstar.com/2013/09/28/3249480_state-parks-officials-and-tribes.html

Good place to view grinding rocks and other Indian artifacts. They have erected some villages to add authenticity. The museum was closed when we were there, but a nice slice of California history in this park.

It was an awesome site. I still remember how the tour guide said that native american women weren't allowed in the men's hut and I had a hard time understanding when i was in 5th grade. haha. I really liked the array of grinding holes in the granite though. :)

I enjoyed seeing the grinding rocks and the round house. The setting seemed to be just like it would have been for the tribes of old.