Established Camping
Pioneer Trail
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Christmas Tree Cutting Permits Information: Recreation.gov Christmas Tree cutting permits will go on sale on Friday, October 10, 2025. Christmas trees are $10.00 each and there is a maximum of two (2) trees per permit for a total of $20.00. Fourth graders can use their Every Kid Outdoors pass to obtain one (1) free tree. There is an additional $2.50 reservation fee for all permits. Tree cutting dates are Friday, November 28, 2025, through Wednesday, December 31, 2025. Starting in 2026, Christmas trees will increase in price to $20.00 per tree.
Pioneer Trail is located in Stanislaus National Forest, featuring forested terrain with a mix of trees and open spaces. The area experiences temperature highs around 85°F in summer and lows near 20°F in winter. Nearby attractions include Pinecrest Lake and Dodge Ridge Ski Resort, offering opportunities for water activities and winter sports.
Description
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.
Location
Pioneer Trail is located in California
Directions
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.
Address
STANISLAUS
CA
Coordinates
38.1875 N
119.9875 W
Detours Nearby
Eureka Valley Campground
29 min away
Eagle Meadow Horse Camp
48 min away
Drive Time
- 1 hr 31 min from Modesto
- 1 hr 33 min from Merced
- 1 hr 38 min from Stockton
- 3 hrs 5 min from Carson City
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage
VerizonLTESome Coverage- AT&TNo Coverage
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Reservable
- Pets
- Fires
