California / Tuolumne County / Stanislaus National Forest

Pinecrest

Closed — Closed for the winter season. The campground typically operates from mid-March through mid-October, with shoulder season first-come, first-served camping mid-March to early May and mid-September to mid-October. Reservations required Memorial Day through Labor Day.

About

Pinecrest Campground is a large, heavily-used campground situated in the Pinecrest Basin adjacent to Pinecrest Lake in Stanislaus National Forest, 30 miles east of Sonora. At 5,600 feet elevation, the campground offers 200 campsites with paved roads and parking areas of varying lengths. Each site includes a metal fire ring and picnic table. Water hydrants serve multiple sites, and all restrooms feature flush toilets, sinks, and most have electricity. Some restrooms are fully accessible. The campground is within walking distance of the lake, swimming beaches, marina, visitor center, and amphitheater where educational programs are offered. The easy 4-mile Pinecrest Lake National Recreation Trail circles the lake, and rainbow trout fishing is popular. A small shopping center near the lake offers conveniences, and bike rentals are available. Nearby attractions include Dodge Ridge Mountain Resort (summer mountain biking, hiking, disc golf), Aspen Meadow Pack Station for horseback riding, and Kennedy Meadows for river fishing and hiking. The campground sits in beautiful mountain landscape with views of snow-capped peaks and opportunities to spot marmots, squirrels, coyotes, and deer. Pets are welcome but must comply with Tuolumne County leash laws. Generator use is limited to 3 hours per day between 8:00 AM and 8:00 PM.

Directions

From Sonora, take Highway 108 east for 30 miles, take the Pinecrest exit onto Pinecrest Lake Road and continue to the campground.

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