Pine Mountain Lake

Pine Mountain Lake
37.8603° N, -120.1844° W
Pine Mountain Lake

Just 30 miles from Yosemite National Park, Pine Mountain Lake is a private, gated community built around a tranquil 202-acre lake ideal for swimming, kayaking, and small motorboats. Only residents and their guests have access to its three sandy beaches, full-service marina, and championship golf course. Fishing is popular for trout, bass, and catfish, and pontoon cruises are a staple of summer evenings. Groveland, a charming Gold Rush town, offers shops and dining—stop by Iron Door Saloon, one of California’s oldest bars, for a slice of local history. Whether you’re watching osprey from the dock or teeing off at sunrise, Pine Mountain Lake is the Sierra’s hidden resort gem.

Surface area (mi)
30.98
Max depth (ft)
100
Elevation (ft)
2431.1
Shoreline length (mi)
6
Best time to go
Embrace the serene beauty of Pine Mountain Lake in late spring, particularly May, when the landscape bursts into a symphony of vibrant blooms. Enjoy tranquil fishing days, peaceful hikes, and the soft caress of warm sun, all before the summer crowds arrive.
Water Quality
Moosehead Lake's water is pristine and gin-clear, with a glassy and mirror-like surface. The water color can vary but often appears deep blue or sapphire, especially in clearer areas. The shoreline, surrounded by dense forests and rugged terrain, adds to the natural scenery. However, in some areas, the water can be tannin-stained, giving it a tea-colored appearance due to the leaching of humic acids from the surrounding vegetation.

Ideal for

  • Family friendly:
  • Pet friendly:
  • Romantic getaways:

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Kayaking
  • Canoeing
  • Swimming
  • Fishing
  • Hiking

Islands

Amidst the serene embrace of towering pines and crystal-clear waters, a pair of enchanting islands emerge in the heart of Pine Mountain Lake. These landforms, rich with local lore, beckon adventurers and tranquility seekers alike. Unique hiking trails weave through ancient oak groves, leading to stunning lookouts that provide panoramas of the shimmering lake below. Among the islands, small docks await boats, inviting visitors to explore hidden coves or fish in tranquil waters. The historical remnants of old cabins whisper tales from a bygone era, allowing guests to glimpse the area’s gold mining past. Ideal for photography enthusiasts, the golden hour casts a magical glow here, offering the perfect backdrop for memorable snapshots. With recreational activities thriving year-round, these islands stand as a hidden gem, a testament to nature’s allure and historical depth, promising an unforgettable escape for all who venture here.

Nearby amenities

Visitors to this scenic area in California will find a wealth of amenities surrounding the picturesque waters. Boating enthusiasts can take advantage of the Pine Mountain Lake Marina, featuring a boat launch, rental options for pontoon boats, jet skis, and fishing gear. A fuel dock is available for refueling while a boat wash station keeps your equipment clean. On land, the local grocery store, Pine Mountain Lake General Store, provides supplies and essentials, while the nearby Lakeside Bistro offers lakefront dining with scenic views. Adventurers can explore hiking trails in the vicinity or relax on the sandy shores at designated swimming areas. For overnight stays, accommodations range from cozy lakefront lodges like the Pine Mountain Lake Lodge to campgrounds suited for tents and RVs. Additional facilities include restrooms, showers, and a visitor information center to enhance your stay. With easy parking options, including RV spaces, everything is in place for a perfect lake getaway.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Pine Mountain Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • Yes, you can swim in Pine Mountain Lake. You can swim at the Pine Mountain Lake Swim Center, which has a pool, or at one of the three swimming beaches: Marina Beach, Lake Lodge, and Dunn Court Beach. No lifeguard is on duty at any of these locations.

  • Pine Mountain Lake is a popular destination because it offers a variety of outdoor activities. The lake features three beautiful beaches for swimming, picnic facilities, and opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and boating. It also has hiking trails, an 18-hole golf course, and tennis courts, making it ideal for both relaxation and adventure.

  • In Pine Mountain Lake, California, only worms are allowed as live bait for fishing. This rule is governed by California Fish & Wildlife laws, which restrict the use of other types of live bait. Fishing regulations are consistent with state laws to protect the lake’s ecosystem.

  • The best beach for families at Pine Mountain Lake is Marina Beach. It has the most amenities, including picnic tables, grills, and a lakeside cafe. Additionally, Lake Lodge Beach is also a good option with its playground and protected swim area, but Marina Beach offers more space and activities.

  • Towns near Pine Mountain Lake include Oakdale, Merced, Riverbank, Atwater, Livingston, Turlock, Ceres, and Modesto. These towns are all located in the surrounding counties of California. Pine Mountain Lake itself is situated in Tuolumne County, close to the historic town of Groveland.