About PIONEER TRAIL
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.
How to Get There
From Sonora, California, take Highway 108 east for about 30 miles. Exit at Pinecrest Lake and turn right on Dodge Ridge Road. Continue 1 mile to Pioneer Trails Campground, located on the left.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to PIONEER TRAIL
Heading to PIONEER TRAIL? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for PIONEER TRAIL?
No central reservation system listed for PIONEER TRAIL. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232293) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to PIONEER TRAIL?
From Sonora, California, take Highway 108 east for about 30 miles. Exit at Pinecrest Lake and turn right on Dodge Ridge Road. Continue 1 mile to Pioneer Trails Campground, located on the left.
How do I contact PIONEER TRAIL?
You can reach the park at phone: 209-965-3474 or email: Info@DodgeRidge.com.
References & Official Resources
