Pinecrest Campground is nestled in the Stanislaus National Forest in Pinecrest, California. Located in the central Sierra Nevada Mountains, it sits between Lake Tahoe and Yosemite, making it a fantastic outdoor getaway. Here’s everything you need to know about Pinecrest Campground.
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Campsite Details
Pinecrest Campground accommodates both tents and trailers, with a maximum trailer length of 40 feet. Each campsite includes a paved parking pad, though many sites have concrete pillars surrounding the pad, which can make parking a trailer a bit tricky.
Hookups & Water
This is a dry campground, meaning there are no hookups for water, electricity, or sewage. However, drinking water is available, though it cannot be used to fill RV tanks.
For waste disposal, a dump station is located about a quarter-mile west of Pinecrest Lake Road on Highway 108.
Campsite Layout & Amenities
Privacy is minimal at Pinecrest Campground, but many sites—especially in the C loop—are spacious. Each campsite includes:
- A picnic table
- A metal fire ring
There are no bear boxes.
Facilities
The campground has flush toilets, but there are no showers on-site. However, the general store across the street offers showers for a fee. Trash and recycling receptacles are available.
Nearby Supplies
Right across the street from the campground, there’s a well-stocked general store and a restaurant, making it convenient for last-minute supplies and meals.
Internet & Connectivity
Cell service is spotty at best. Verizon provided a weak signal, and there is no available Wi-Fi.
Natural Surroundings & Wildlife
The campground is surrounded by pine, fir, and cedar trees, creating a beautiful forested atmosphere. Wildlife sightings include:
- Bees (plentiful at some campsites)
- Bats (especially in the evening)
- Marmots, squirrels, coyotes, and deer
Things to Do at Pinecrest Campground
Pinecrest Lake
The campground is within walking distance of Pinecrest Lake. At the lake you can enjoy:
- Swimming
- Paddling
- Fishing
- Relaxing at picnic areas with restrooms nearby
Note: Dogs are not allowed on the beach or in the lake but are permitted in nearby picnic areas.
Hiking the Pinecrest Lake Loop
A scenic, dog-friendly 4-mile trail circles the lake. Dogs must be leashed. We hiked about a quarter of the trail before turning back, which was a great option for families with younger kids.
Outdoor Movie Theater
For a unique camping experience, Pinecrest offers an outdoor movie theater with concessions. Both the movie and snacks come at an additional cost.
Exploring Sonora
If you’re up for a short trip, the charming town of Sonora is just 30 miles away. Sonora offers:
- The Sonora Brewing Company
- A candy store and toy store
- Quaint historic shops perfect for browsing
Camping Costs
As of now, the cost to camp at Pinecrest Campground is $40 per night, but prices are subject to change.
The Best Campsites
- C11
- This site was positioned well for a trailer and felt like one of the larger and more private sites.
Recap
Pinecrest Campground offers a classic Sierra Nevada camping experience with easy access to Pinecrest Lake and plenty of outdoor activities. While it lacks modern conveniences like hookups and Wi-Fi, its natural beauty and nearby amenities make it a great choice for campers looking to unplug and enjoy the great outdoors.
Here’s a summary of the items you need to know before visiting Pinecrest campground:
| Tents Allowed | Yes |
| Trailers Allowed | Yes |
| Max Trailer Length | 40 Feet |
| Hookups | None |
| Drinking Water | Yes |
| RV Water Fill | No |
| Dump Station | Yes |
| Flush Toilets | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Internet | Weak |
| Cost | $40/night |
Campground Details:
Pinecrest Campground
18 Pinecrest Lake Rd, Pinecrest, CA 95364
Can reserve online at recreation.gov. Reservations open 6 months ahead at 7am PST.
