Pioneer Trail

About

Pioneer Trail Group Campground offers groups the opportunity to camp near the beautiful 300-acre Pinecrest Lake in Stanislaus National Forest. Located in the scenic Pinecrest Basin at 5,600 feet elevation, the campground features three well-equipped group sites. Sites 1 and 3 accommodate up to 50 people with parking for 10-15 vehicles, while Site 2 handles groups up to 100 with parking for 25 vehicles. Each site is equipped with pedestal BBQ grills, fire rings, multiple picnic tables including a dedicated food preparation table, and water hydrants. Flush toilets and potable water are available during the regular season. The campground sits just 1.5 miles from the Pinecrest Lake Day Use Area via Dodge Ridge Road, with a one-mile trail connecting directly to the lake. Pinecrest Lake beckons with excellent rainbow trout fishing, swimming at designated beach areas, and the 4-mile Pinecrest Lake National Recreation Trail circling the lake. Wildlife viewing opportunities include marmots, squirrels, coyotes, and deer. Nearby amenities include a sport shop, market, coffee shop, restaurant, and post office. Pay showers are available within a few miles.

Directions

From Sonora, California, take Highway 108 east for about 30 miles. Exit at Pinecrest Lake and turn right on Dodge Ridge Road. Continue 1 mile to Pioneer Trail Campground on the left.