Pinecrest Lake

Came here to spend a day with my 4year old and husband. It's a 3hr drive from Santa Clara, we started around 7am and reached there around 11am. There were plenty of parking and found some restaurants near the spot. We bought our lunch and snacks fromhome. We wanted to take our daughter to play in snow and found this place to be amazing as we were not interested in heavy snow area as we had a small car. This place was really beautiful spot to spent the entire day. The restrooms were also pretty clean. We had fun.

Such beautiful waters but extremely frigid & ice cold during our visit...Thank you to my sister & BIL for finding Pinecrest Lake and making plans for our little munchkins to have a fun-filled day.Pinecrest Lake neighbors Stanislaus National Forest. This place is great for a hike, some swimming, and offers grills for your usage/pleasure. Cabins are available if you do a quick search and plan ahead.Even on a day where the sun was shining bright and the waters being bitterly cold, there was no shortage of people frolicking. Granted, most families were smart enough to bring x-large floaties where you could simply hop on and drift along peacefully. Paddle boarding was also a popular activity. Extra points for the snack shack located nearby offering ice cream, burgers, hotdogs, corndogs, and drinks- just to name a few.5/5 stars for the beautiful views. I'd happily make a return visit and hopefully it'll involve warmer waters and some grilling deliciousness.

My husband and I started this tradition of coming up here once a year to kayak ! We really appreciate how easy it is to rent a kayak here. The lake also is not that big (it is man made, after all), so it does not take a while to kayak around. There is also a food shop near the lake. It's a bit pricey but it's kind of like how the movie theatres have food and snacks. I really appreciate and was surprised that the food shack has plant-based options ! Oh also this lake is just a really pretty place. We have not yet lounged on the shore and played in the water, nor have we hiked around the lake yet, but those are definite possibilities in the next times we go ! 4 stars because bathrooms don't have handsoap and also parking is really tough to find - gotta come early or park far.

Pinecrest Lake offers a delightful escape into nature, providing a perfect blend of tranquility and outdoor activity. From the first glimpse of its shimmering waters set against a backdrop of lush forest, the lake promises a serene retreat.Scenery and Atmosphere:The scenic views at Pinecrest are nothing short of picturesque, ideal for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The lake is surrounded by towering pines and offers clear views that are especially breathtaking during sunrise and sunset.Activities:There's no shortage of things to do at Pinecrest Lake. The easy 4-mile trail around the lake is a gentle hike that offers scenic spots and ample wildlife viewing opportunities. For those who prefer water activities, boating and fishing are popular, with rentals available during the warmer months. However, the lake can become quite crowded on weekends and holidays, so early arrival is recommended for a more peaceful experience.Amenities:The facilities at Pinecrest are well-maintained. There are ample picnic areas for family outings and several campgrounds with basic amenities like toilets and drinking water. While the area promotes biking, it's important to note that the trails may not be suitable for all types of bikes, as some paths turn from paved to rugged terrain rather unexpectedly.Safety and Cleanliness:Pinecrest Lake is well-kept. Visitors should be prepared for minimal supervision as there are no lifeguards on duty. Overall Experience:Pinecrest Lake is a wonderful destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure in the great outdoors. Whether you're here to unwind by the lakeside or explore the surrounding trails, the lake offers a refreshing getaway.Tips for Future Visitors: * Plan your visit during the weekdays if possible to avoid the crowds. * Don't forget to bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water, as shaded areas can be limited along some parts of the lake. Also, bring your own soap and toilet cover to the restroom. They do not provide this. * Check the local weather and lake conditions before your trip, especially if you plan on engaging in water activities.Whether it's a family outing or a solo adventure, Pinecrest Lake is a gem worth visiting. Just come prepared and respect the natural surroundings to ensure a pleasant and safe visit for everyone.

I decided, on a warm June Saturday, to head over Highway 108 and enjoy some sightseeing before hitting the Sonora Pass. Hiking around the lake was my first stop. Knowing that summer is crowded, I made a point to get there by 10:30. That wasn't early enough, as day use lots were already full and I snagged one of the last roadside spots near the lodge's cabins.It was utterly chaotic and I'm not sure how anyone who comes there for lakeside relaxation or beach time, could find that enjoyable. The sand was mobbed and it was just loud and stressful navigating the initial path.Once past the main beach, though, I had a wonderful and scenic hike around the lake. It becomes quieter, and you can truly enjoy taking in the mountain sceneryThere are no day use fees and you can hike the entire perimeter or the lake, with mountain scenery, small waterfalls, some rock scrambling, a dam, and the river rushing into the lake. It's a beautiful hike with lots of variety of the scenery. Either you look past the crowds or choose to go during a slower season.Park maps and other reviews put the loop at 4 miles. My tracker showed it at 5.5 and I've read other reviews that put it at 5-6.While there's not any true elevation gain, you do need good tread, as there are some up and down granite steps and some roots and rocks. I'd rate it low-moderate. Mix of sun and shade.I'd love to hike it again either on a weekday or before the summer crush. Bring more water than you think you need-the lake reflecting off the granite makes it hot and while some sections are shaded, you'll be in full sun quite a bit.Lovely spot, but if crowds aren't your thing, do not come on a weekend. I almost left, as the initial parking and first part of the hike were bordering on miserable. I'd heard this area used to be more of a low key spot-but there are no more hidden gems. Plan accordingly and come with the right expectations.

Beautiful location. Super busy with campers and daily visitors. Twenty minutes from Sonora or Mi Wuk and a great way to relax with family. There is a snack shack nearby and a lot of camp grounds. Would highly recommend this for those in the nearby area. We saw kayaks and rafts all day long. It was beautiful and very clean

We love coming here each summer! We do each year to honor my husband's late grandma. We normally rent a cabin near the lake and go to the lake early. You need to get there early to get a close parking spot and a nice shaded area close to the lake. If you get there later there is still plenty of parking but you'll just need to walk a little more or you can unload your stuff near the entrance and then park your car afterwards. There are plenty of bathrooms but just bring your own soap or sanitizer because there's no soap. They have a snack shack and today they had a food truck nearby. My kids usually love to get the ice cream cones from the snack shack. They accept cash/card. We normally chill by the lake and our kids play and sometimes we get a paddle boat. Today they didn't have paddle boats so we rented two kayaks. They also have regular boats for fishing, party boat and two different kinds of kayaks to rent. It was so much fun! They provided us with life jackets as well. It can get crowded so just get there early. The employees are very friendly and knowledgeable. We can't wait to continue to come back.

Crowded but fun! A bustling parking lot! Hold your kids hands, please!! People are friendly, even in this Summer Crush. Everyone wants to come here, easy access to sandy beach, but water level is low. Lots to do - rent a boat, a party boat would be fun with more water in the lake. Trails: Mostly Flat (but uneven) trail goes around the lake. There are spots to rest along the trail. Some strollers were at the start of the trail where it's paved, but you can't get too far until the trail has dips and turns and craggy rocks. To hike around the lake: With small kids bring a front pack. Wear sturdy shoes to avoid trips and falls... the more sure footed and "10 year olds" do quite well on the dirt trail. Great family place! Enjoy ice cream cones at the refreshment stand. Bring cold water- don't get dehydrated up here. Limited cell service in some areas.

Favorite place for the whole family to spend a relaxing weekend. We come to this Lake every summer, is worth the drive.

Amazing place geared for family's fishing is increable movie theater in the forrest boat rentalsHospitality is amazing throughout the whole resort very welcoming staff