Ten miles southwest of Long Barn in the Stanislaus National Forest, Pioneer Trail operates as a full-hookup campground with sites accommodating RVs up to 40 feet. The US Forest Service manages this forested property near a lake, providing water and sewer connections alongside standard amenities like restrooms and drinking water. WiFi access sets it apart from many forest service locations.
Campers can fish and swim in the nearby lake waters. The campground allows pets and campfires, with a dump station available for those needing it. Reservations help secure spots during busy periods. For additional options, see campgrounds around Long Barn throughout the surrounding Sierra Nevada foothills.
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.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundPioneer 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
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 4/2/26- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 4/2/26
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- WiFi
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 1 hr 31 min from Modesto, CA
- 1 hr 33 min from Merced, CA
- 1 hr 38 min from Stockton, CA
- 3 hrs 5 min from Carson City, NV
