Pets allowed
Not Allowed
Guided tours
No
Backcountry camping
No
Lodging
Yes
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Pinecrest Lake is a popular warm weather destination in the mountains of the lower Sierra Nevada.

At an elevation of 5600', the reservoir lake stays much cooler than the valley, and as much, makes a busy location for hiking, boating, or wading along the lakeshore. 

Pinecrest Lake's western shore has numerous recreational opportunities and amenities, including picnic tables beneath the forest canopy with grills, sandy lakeshore for swimming and fishing, a boat ramp, a marina with watercraft rentals available, concession stands, a forested amphitheater beneath the trees in view of the water the doubles as the town of Pinecrest's movie theater during the warmer months, and lies in proximity to lodging and campgrounds, as well as a market and restaurants.

There is lots of shade, and paths near the large free parking areas are paved and handicapped accessible. 

The Pinecrest Marina rents single and double kayaks, in addition or motorboats, sailboats and party boats, in two hour and half day blocks. A fish cleaning station sits next to the water and is open to the public.

The 4 mile Pinecrest Lake National Recreation Trail is a moderately easy hike that loops around the lake. 

Potable water and flush bathrooms are available. Pets are prohibited from day use areas between May 15th and September 15th, and are permitted with strict leash requirements the remainder of the year.

Pinecrest Lake Day Use and Beach areas are open from 6am to 10pm daily. Parking is free, however this area gets extremely busy during summer weekends and can fill up. RV parking is available near Pinecrest Campground.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Summer
Fall

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Variety of recreational options. Boat rentals available.

Cons

Can get crowded.

Features

ADA accessible
General store
Boat ramp(s)
Wildlife
Lodging
Fishing
Big vistas
Rental facilities
Flushing toilets
Family friendly
Picnic tables
Near lake or river
Wildflowers
Potable water

Location

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