federalfederal

PIONEER TRAIL

federal · CA

DirectionsCall
  • fuel station4.2 mi

USDA Forest Service, Stanislaus National Forest · Data Source: Recreation.gov

About

Overview Pioneer Trail Group Campground offers groups of up to 100 people the opportunity to camp near the beautiful Pinecrest Lake. The campground is located within the Pinecrest Recreational Area just 2 miles from the lake, which beckons visitors with excellent fishing, boating, hiking and swimming opportunities. In this spectacular mountain region, wildlife viewing opportunities include marmots, squirrels, coyotes and deer. Recreation The Pinecrest Lake National Recreation Trail takes hikers on an easy 4-mile stroll around Pinecrest Lake. Rainbow trout is a common catch in the lake and swimming is enjoyed in designated beach areas. Facilities Campsites 1 and 3 will accommodate up to 50 campers and Site 2 will accommodate up to 100 campers. Each site features a large campfire circle, picnic tables and vault toilets. No RV hookups or electricity are available. Pay showers are within a few miles. Winter camping is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Pets are welcome, but must be compliant with Tuolumne County leash laws. Natural Features Pioneer Trail sits at an elevation of 5,600 feet, in a wooded area near the southwest side of the 300-acre Pinecrest Lake in Stanislaus National Forest. Stanislaus National Forest is located in the central Sierra Nevada Mountains, between Lake Tahoe and Yosemite. It boasts gorgeous views of snow-capped mountain peaks and California's Great Central Valley. Nearby Attractions The nearby Sonora Pass is a scenic winding highway that has guided people across the Sierra Nevada since 1852.

Around this stay

Nearest surrounding services and recreation within ~25 mi — not on-site amenities.

  • fuel station

    Chevron

    4.2 mi
  • propane

    7-Eleven

    17 mi
  • grocery

    Pinecrest General Store

    0.6 mi
  • potable water

    Potable water

    1.1 mi
  • trailhead

    Crabtree X-country Trailhead

    1.2 mi
  • attraction

    Beach 2

    0.3 mi
  • recreation site

    Fishing access

    0.2 mi

No dump station found within ~25 mi. Plan dump access before you arrive.

Contact & access

Source and verification

Last verified: 10/5/2026

See the Sources tab for provenance detail.