1 / 4

Pinecrest Campground

97%

196 sites · RV, Tent

This classic and comfortable Sierra Nevada campground sits on the shore of Pinecrest Lake, home to a marina, beach, and fishing. With giant cedar and pine trees, deep blue lake water, a shoreline trail system, and granite slopes to explore in all directions, you won’t have to stray far from camp to have a great trip here, either on the lake or in the surrounding Stanislaus National Forest. Pinecrest Campground also features a marketplace and restaurant within walking distance, making it a good choice for families or beginning campers.

Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation

Pinecrest Campground is typically open from early May to late October.
Campsites are reservable online or by phone six months in advance.
Book early: This popular site fills up fast during the peak summer season.
Pinecrest Campground occasionally offers some first-come, first-serve sites at the beginning and end of the season. Call the park availability.

When to Go

The summer rush at Pinecrest Campground occurs from June to August. Weather may be cooler in May and between mid-September and October, but It’s still worth snagging a site during these quieter, less crowded months.

What this place offers

Campfire allowed

Pets allowed

No showers

Toilets

Potable water

Picnic tables

No sewage hookups

No electric hookups

196 sites

RV, Tent

Explore 691 campgrounds near Stanislaus National Forest

Scanning sold-out campgrounds every 15 seconds. Get notified the moment Pinecrest Campground becomes available.

Available campgrounds nearby

Top-rated for location, privacy, and amenities near Stanislaus National Forest

More to explore nearby

97%

58 ratings · 6 reviews

Recommends

· July 2025

Perfect little spot by the Pinecrest Lake

15 ft RV · With pets

we lucked out with a spot right by the lake, which made it even better with the nice cold breeze! the park ranger/host was also super cool and friendly—really added to the good vibes. would definitely come back! 🌲💛

Axl Rose S.

2 reviews

Recommends

· September 2018

Great campsite for the weekend. Very kid friendly and an awesome place to swim in the summer

Nora V.

4 reviews

Mixed feelings

· June 2017

It is very crowded with kids and teenagers.

Katie C.

8 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· February 2017

Fun little lake for fishing and laying out on the beach!

Nathan H.

8 years on Hipcamp

November 2015

A great place to camp if you like amenities! This is a popular summer vacation spot and fills up fast. Some campsites are a short walk across the street and you're at the sandy shore of Pinecrest Lake. There's a well stocked store, snack shack, boat rentals, art gallery, flush toilets and there's even nightly movies at the amphitheater! The walk around the lake is easy, and a great way to escape the crowd and grab a private spot. You can also hike to Cleo's bath from the lake trail, check out the view, and watch the water rush over the cliff!

Joleen W.

4 reviews

August 2015

Seriously. This place is packed for a reason. I grew up coming here and the only thing that has changed is the water level and amount of people. The beaches might get packed but just a short hike around the lake will have you secluded in no time. They have movies in an outdoor theater for the whole family, pretty clean bathrooms, and a variety of loops to choose from. We usually stay furthest away from the lake—it's a little quieter back there. But really, any site you get is going to be worth the trip.