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Bass Lake - - Madera County - Spring Aerial Panorama- Drone
31 Things We Love
About Bass Lake
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31 Things We Love About Bass Lake
What to Do Bass Lake 31 Things We Love About Bass Lake

BEAUTIFUL BASS LAKE CALIFORNIA

Bass Lake is located one-hour northwest of Fresno and 17 miles from the southern gate to Yosemite National Park near the exact center of California. Bass Lake’s emerald-green water and sandy shores are nestled among tall Pines at an elevation of 3,415 feet.

This year-round vacation destination was named one of the "West's Best Lakes" by Sunset Magazine and has been a popular tourist destination since the 1930s. The lake is renowned for excellent water activities, mountain bike trails, hiking, fishing, shopping, and lakeside dining. Lodging includes lakeside resorts, friends and family cabin rentals, and campgrounds.

If you wish to play on the lake, Bass Lake is the perfect place for you! With summer water temps reaching 80 degrees and three marinas to choose from, you can find everything you need to satisfy your water activity needs. Plus, there are two public boat launches, so if you have your own water toys... bring them along, too.

See you at the Lake!

BASS LAKE STAY

BASS LAKE STAY: THE PINES RESORT

Nestled among its name-sake trees on the north shore of Bass Lake, The Pines Resort is perfect for a getaway or special occasion, with charming chalet-style cabins, beautifully appointed suites, fine farm-to-table dining, and all the amenities you'd expect from an exceptional mountain lodge.

The resort is a hidden jewel located just a few steps from boating, fishing, swimming, biking, barbecues, camping, and much more. Founded in 1941, The Pines retains its authentic mountain lodge ambiance to this day.

Upstairs at Ducey's Bar & Grill you'll find a casual-dining grill with a great view. Downstairs, Ducey's on the Lake is the Pines Resort's signature restaurant, open daily for breakfast and dinner. With myriad options on a seasonal menu, including vegan and vegetarian selections, the chef proudly uses locally grown and organic produce. Watch for special holiday events, winemaker and brewers' dinners, and sunset specials for early birds.

BASS LAKE STAY: THE FORKS RESORT

Perfectly set on the south shore of Bass Lake, The Forks Resort has been a mainstay for family vacations over generations: we're talking about more than 80 years of tradition. From the homemade food in the restaurant to each of the delightful cabins that make up the resort, and all the amenities in between, The Forks is a place where happy happens.

Family owned and operated for three generations, the modern cabins equipped with satellite TV host two to eight, most with lake views. Fishing, boating, water skiing, and swimming in Bass Lake are just outside your cabin door, with numerous hiking trails and a golf course nearby. Make yourself at home: small pets are okay, and moorings are available for a modest fee, plus there's a new deck and new dock.

This beloved family resort has a no-party policy so you'll be sure to get a good night's sleep, tired from all the outdoor fun. Guaranteed, a respite at The Forks will be welcome.

39150 Rd 222, Bass Lake, CA 93604


BASS LAKE STAY: MILLER'S LANDING RESORT

Miller's Landing Resort is a long-time favorite for generations of families who have made their way to Bass Lake for special occasions and the best of times.

Located on the south shore, most cabins have a spectacular view, and all of them include satellite television, full kitchens, air conditioning, and BBQs. Perfect for romantic getaways, family vacations, or corporate retreats, cabins are available for rental year-round, with a substantial discount off-season.

With an expansive dock, a grill offering delicious food and drink, plenty of fun souvenirs, and beautiful grounds including a gazebo ideal for an intimate wedding and reception, Miller's is a heritage destination with a a charming, casual appeal.

Resort activities frequently include movies-on-the-water, car and boat shows, and live music, so it's the perfect place for visitors and locals to unwind and have a great time.

37976 Rd 222, Wishon, CA 93669, USA

BASS LAKE STAY: VACATION RENTALS AROUND THE LAKE

Want to wake up in the morning to the sound of birds singing, and go to sleep with a smile on your face? With hundreds of desirable vacation homes available, the tranquil waters and beautiful vistas of Bass Lake are even more appealing when you're ensconced in your own lakeside retreat.

Within walking distance of shopping and dining, and offering myriad options for recreation, a Bass Lake vacation home is the ideal place to come for family occasions, reunions, corporate retreats, or simply as a much-needed getaway to unwind and unplug. 

A vast array of homes await, from modern mansion-like lakefront properties to more cozy cabin-style accommodations, all tucked under the pine trees, where the seasons change and eagles soar. Whether you're watching a summer sunset, or seeing snowflakes fall gently onto manzanita, photographing the leaves change in fall, or watching as a world of green comes to life in spring, don't pass up a chance to make Bass Lake memories that last forever.

More info at yosemitethisyear.com/lodging-rentalhomes-cabins

BASS LAKE STAY: OUTDOORSY YOSEMITE - RV CAMPGROUND

Whether you're just starting your vacation or you've been on the road for a time, this is the kind of place you pull your RV into, look around, and say "Ahhh. This is perfect. Let's stay a while." And the whole family agrees with you.

With 178 full hook-up sites available with cable and wi-fi, that's just the beginning of the amenities. It doesn't stop at RVs: log cabins and small cabins are the ideal size for just about any group -- or a romantic getaway.

The resort features a relaxing outdoor swimming pool, and a charming playground for the kids. An indoor clubhouse gives families time to bond over billiards, ping ping and games. Did we mention the handy café?

Just steps away from all this comfort is Bass Lake -- with all the activities you can imagine. Boating, fishing, swimming, hiking and biking -- you name it. Fancy something a little fancier? Fine dining and great shopping are yours for the taking.

This is your home away from home.

outdoorsyosemite.com

39744 Rd 274, Bass Lake, CA 93604, USA

BASS LAKE STAY: CAMPGROUNDS AT BASS LAKE

Sprawling campgrounds at Bass Lake are known for spectacular mountain scenery and abundant natural resources. Views include rolling, oak-covered foothills, heavily forested middle elevation slopes and the starkly beautiful alpine landscape of the High Sierra.

Bass Lake campgrounds are seemingly remote, yet close to favorite restaurants, watercraft rentals, hiking, and shopping. Designated campgrounds include Cedar Bluff, Forks, Lupine, Spring Cove, Wishon, and Recreation Point, subject to availability.

The landscape around Bass Lake has changed—campers should plan for very little shade as campgrounds are now exposed with few trees. The good news? Lake views are prevalent.

Every campsite comes with picnic tables, fire rings, and nearby restrooms. That and potable water help make rustic Bass Lake camping very comfortable. These are popular sites and book out in advance. Reservations can be made online or by phoning 877-444-6777. Pets are permitted, on leash.

Vista Recreation's Bass Lake Store, located near the entrance to Recreation Point Group Camping area, is open for parking permits, camping reservations, sundries, souvenirs, and advice:

39900 Road 222, Bass Lake, CA 93604

Recreation.Gov

BASS LAKE PLAY & EAT

BASS LAKE PLAY & EAT: MILLER'S LANDING BOAT RENTALS & GRILL

Ideally situated on the south shore of Bass Lake, family-owned Miller's Landing Resort offers boat rentals and fun-dining. Sit outside on the patio with a view of the dock and lake, or inside with a view of the ice cream freezer.

Waverunners, paddle boards, tubes, kayaks/canoes, patio, fishing, and ski boats are available by the hour, day or week—with discounts for multi-day rental and always a super helpful staff.

Meals are served in Miller's grill, using the freshest, most high-quality ingredients and everything made fresh to order from the charbroiled Miller Burger and Baja fish tacos to pastrami melt or fish & chips. Veggie options and gluten-free bread, as well as beer and wine are available, along with specialty coffee drinks. A local favorite is their Fudge Bucket, a children's sand bucket lines with fudge and filled with ice cream and treats. They even offer a Pet Menu!

The Lakeview Loft sports spectacular views and plenty of seating. Miller's happily offers take-out with online ordering, and will even deliver your food to the dock.

millerslanding.com

37976 Rd 222, Wishon, CA 93669, USA

BASS LAKE PLAY & EAT: BASS LAKE BOAT RENTALS AND MARINA BAR & GRILL

Offering nearly unlimited opportunity for recreation, and a killer menu to go with it, Bass Lake Boat Rentals and Marina Bar & Grill are at the heart of the lake in The Pines Marina.

Choose your speed from rental options including patio boats, ski and wakeboard boats, jet skis and waverunners, kayaks, canoes, paddle boards and paddle boats, fishing boats and even ebikes. You can also pick up snacks, water, gear and souvenirs inside the shop.

Right next to the boat rentals, the Marina Grill is cookin' up fresh, delicious burgers and homemade food including hot dogs, chicken tenders, chowder and sandwiches. The ambiance is classic lakeside, with tables and thatched umbrellas alongside the famous Bass Lake sign—perfect for a souvenir selfie.

It's not uncommon for a DJ to rock the dock, and there's a newly-installed dance floor. Summer weekends, the patio is ablaze with fire dancers who can be seen dockside or from a boat on the lake. The show is fantastic, and it's free.

basslakeboatrentals.com

54406 Rd 432, Bass Lake, CA 93604, USA

BASS LAKE PLAY & EAT: THE FORKS RESORT BOAT RENTALS & RESTAURANT

With comfy, red booths, swivel stools along an expansive pine bar, and a newly-constructed outdoor deck, The Forks Restaurant is a happening place on most nights of the season. Inside, the general store is well- stocked with familiar brands of groceries, as well as drugstore sundries, souvenirs, sporting goods, fishing tackle and fishing license, propane, gas and ice.

For more than 80 years, The Forks Resort has built a reputation as a traditional family vacation spot, family owned and operated for three generations, The resort's long-time owners personally choose every item on every shelf, and that love is evident in each high-quality, great-looking item they carry.

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner feature homemade soups, chili and dressings, served in the original 50s diner setting. When the restaurant reopens every spring, hungry loyalists flock to The Forks like it's a national holiday. They're getting their Forks Burger-fix: fresh beef patty on sourdough bread, smothered in cheese and onions. It's a real mountain tradition. Not your thing? Try any selection, you can't go wrong.

theforksresort.com

39150 Rd 222, Bass Lake, CA 93604, USA 

BASS LAKE PLAY

BASS LAKE PLAY: WATERSPORT FUN ON BASS LAKE

Want to tear up some water behind a fast-moving vessel? It's time for waterskiing, wake surfing, jet skiing, and more on Bass Lake -- and that means making memories that will last far beyond the vacation. At just over four-miles long and half-a-mile wide, Bass Lake is big enough for water skiing and personal watercraft and small enough to feel like home.

If you bring your own boat to the lake, it’s important to make sure that it’s registered -- costs vary depending on the size. You can register locally through the Madera County Sheriff. Leaving your boat on the lake overnight? You’ll need to rent a mooring from one of the marinas, unless you have a dock at your vacation rental. Launching your boat? There are two public access launches on the lake: Wishon Boat Launch on the south shore past Miller's Landing Resort and The Pines Marina at Bass Lake Boat Rentals.

If you’re planning to rent a boat at Bass Lake, we've got you covered. There are three full-service marinas on the lake to take care of all your boating needs.

Boats move counter-clockwise around the lake, and large orange buoys situated near the edges signal the no wake zone -- so please keep your speed under 5 miles per hour in those areas. Otherwise, let it rip and follow all safety rules. You can find more information about boating on Bass Lake here..

basslakechamber.com/boat-rentals

BASS LAKE PLAY: PATIO BOAT FUN

Guarantee you get a good spot for your family to barbecue at the lake --rent a patio boat complete with grill, and spend the day kicking back on the water while you flip burgers and pat yourself on the back for being such a genius. Also known as pontoon boats and party barges, there's no better way to feel at home on Bass Lake.

Designed for all-day cruising, patio boats usually come equipped with canopies, gas BBQ (propane provided), life vests, ladder, ice chest, and padded seats. Some pontoons are hooked up with Bluetooth. A 25-footpatio boat seats about 13 people. Fido may be included, too, as most such rentals allow pets at no additional charge.

Want the kids to go bananas? Rent an inner tube or "banana" to pull behind the patio boat. Depending on where you rent, arrange for any length of time from a couple of hours to a few days -- utterly fun-filled days you'll never forget.

basslakechamber.com/boat-rental

38758 Rd 274, Bass Lake, CA 93604, USA

BASS LAKE PLAY: PADDLEBOARDING & KAYAKING

There's something masterful about skimming across the lake on a stand-up paddle board -- even when you're not standing up. The same can be said for kayaking, low to the water, with an intimate view your surroundings. What's more -- paddle boarding and kayaking are both easy and affordable.

When you're out there on the same level as the local water fowl, you'll find relaxing is simple, the pace is perfect, and you're getting great exercise. Whether you bring your own or rent your floating vessel from one of the places at the lake, you can be on the water fast without fuss.

With no motor grinding in your ear, these are low-key explorer activities that leave plenty of room for socializing, and you'll look good while you get a good look at your surroundings. It's hard to find a better way to float around, listen to music from nearby docks, catch a sunrise or sunset.

Even falling in is fun.

BASS LAKE PLAY: MOUNTAIN BIKING 

Exciting trails for riders of all abilities, complete with beautiful Sierra views, make for outstanding mountain biking in and around Bass Lake. Here are some top local rides:

Goat Mountain | Forks Trail is an intermediate single track, 8 miles round-trip. Starting off Road 223, just west of Bass Lake, forest road 7S23 forks left to the single track or right to the fire lookout tower. It's the same distance from Spring Cove to the lookout tower.

The 007 Trail ranges from 3 - 20 miles and, with three sections, is considered advanced. Start at Road 274 and Central Camp Road. Jumps in the lower section require experienced riders only.

Climbing from Chepo Saddle off Road 222, forest road 6S88 connects with the Bass Lake Vista overlook, Slick Rock, the Mary Jane trail, and other back country tracks.

Willow Creek Trail is a double black diamond downhill following Willow Creek from the high country above the lake, and is for advanced riders only. On all trails watch for motorcycles, hikers, horses, and poison oak.

yosemitethisyear.com/biking-trails-bass-lake

BASS LAKE PLAY: BASS LAKE FISHING DERBY

A timeless tradition in the foothills near Yosemite, the Bass Lake Fishing Derby offers anglers an annual chance — over two days — to win a portion of a purse worth over $50,000 in prize money.

The Derby takes place the first weekend in May, just after some 1,000 tagged rainbow trout are released into the clear waters of beautiful Bass Lake. Two grand prize fish are worth $10,000 each and one more is worth $5,000, and the rest are tagged $100 and $20 each.

Rain or shine, the lake is busy, yet unusually quiet on derby weekend: a voluntary 5 mph speed limit is requested of all boaters during the popular event, so you won't hear the sounds of fast engines. Adults need a California Fishing License to participate, while children under the age of 16 don't need a license. Fishing can be done from the shoreline or by boat.

Derby weekend is the perfect chance to connect with friends, family, fishing -- and fun. And maybe a little cash!

basslakechamber.com/fishing-derby/

BASS LAKE PLAY: SPORTING EVENTS AT BASS LAKE

From elite events attracting top-notch athletes to fun outdoor activities specially designed for kids of all ages, outstanding sporting events at Bass Lake are among the many reasons to come here and play.

The Bass Lake Yosemite Triathlon features both Sprint and Olympic distance courses that treat participants to a swim, followed by a ride around the lake and through the forest, finishing with a 5K or 10K run along the shore and the glistening water of Bass Lake.

The Yosemite Half Marathon is an exceptionally popular event that brings thousands to the area for a 13.1 mile run through the Sierra on fire roads north of Bass Lake, then down Beasore Road and around, ending lakeside at Recreation Point.

Looking for a running event fit for the whole family? Look no further that the Annual Smokey The Bear Run/Walk! First held in May of 1986, the annual local favorite has become a fall classic with various distances for kids, families, and even those who race by wheelchair.

The Grizzly Gravel & Century Bike Ride is one of the premier multi-distance rides in the state, with tough climbs, spectacular scenery of the Central Sierra Nevada via the Sierra Vista Scenic Byway, quiet roads (now both paved and un-paved...), and the some of the best food and friendly support to be found.

What are you waiting for?

yosemitethisyear.com/whats-happening

BASS LAKE PLAY: FIREWORKS & BOAT PARADE

Boom! Aah! That's what you'll hear and say, repeatedly, during the annual Bass Lake Independence Day fireworks show. This is the best. Here's the scoop: you get double the usual fun on 4th of July at the lake because phenomenal fireworks are reflected on water, so that's a twofer -- and the big night's highlights include an unforgettable boat parade before the fireworks show.

The boat parade starts near the entrance to Willow Cove, heads up to The Falls Beach, and then winds up at Miller’s Landing. Registration is free. The parade starts at 7 p.m. and the fireworks show starts about 9 p.m. and it's also free (resorts have special packages) but parking is at a premium, so plan accordingly. Fireworks are visible from The Pines Resort down toward the Falls to The Forks Resort, and you can watch from either side of the lake.

Please remember that, aside from this sanctioned show, all fireworks — even “safe and sane” — are prohibited at Bass Lake and all of the surrounding mountain areas.

Happy Independence Day!

basslakechamber.com/fireworks

BASS LAKE PLAY: SPECIAL EVENTS AROUND THE LAKE 

Picture a sunset, then twinkling stars and the sound of live music skirting across the water. Imagine the hottest entertainment on a summer eve — in the form of exotic fire dancers. Or this: have you ever seen the classic film Jaws from a raft on a lake?

From sensational bands in concert for Bass Lake Live at The Pines Resort, to fire dancers on the dock at Bass Lake Boat Rentals, or Movies on the Lake showing on the giant screen at Miller's Landing Marina — your family is covered for lake night fun.

What's really great is, these activities — and more — can be yours at no charge. Add boat and car shows and the many local festivals celebrating all four seasons, and you'll never run out of fun, affordable stuff to do.

yosemitethisyear.com/whats-happening

BASS LAKE PLAY: LAKESIDE DAY USE PICNIC AREAS

Picnic and recreation areas dot the shores of beautiful Bass Lake, perfectly situated for resting and playing along its beaches, swimming and fishing, hosting a family BBQ or a simple romantic luncheon getaway.

On the south shore of Bass Lake, picnic areas include Little Denver Church near Way of the Mono trail, Denver Church, Lakeside near Lupine Cedar campground, Pine Point and Pine Slope, Recreation Point with its signature amphitheater (home of ranger talks), and Rocky Point near the Spring Cove hiking trail.

The Falls and Willow Cove picnic areas on the north side are among the reasons Bass Lake is a popular destination for hiking and angling, with a wide variety of fish, along with golden and bald eagles. The lake is open all year for fishing and sightseeing.

Many of its picnic areas are accessible, with tables, toilets, water, barbecues, and parking. A day-fee is charged. Once you park, keep your eyes open for an attendant who will take your cash payment in exchange for a parking pass.

Forest Service - Bass Lake Recreation Area

BASS LAKE EXPLORE

BASS LAKE EXPLORE: WAY OF THE MONO TRAIL

Way of the Mono trail is a self-guided mile-long loop that starts out with a fairly steep incline and quickly resolves into an easy walk of switchbacks up the mountain. At the top is Mono Rock, a spectacular vista point from which hikers can see the lake below.

Hiking Way of the Mono Trail at Bass Lake, it's easy to picture what life may have been like for the area's first people. Educational interpretive signs tell the story of teenage Eku Mina as she goes about her daily routine gathering bounty from the forest.

Way of the Mono is located across from the Little Denver Church day use area off Road 222. There's some free parking near the trailhead and along the road, provided vehicles are safely tucked away from passing traffic. Despite its proximity to the lake, closed-toe shoes with a good tread are recommended for this hike. Dogs must stay on leash, kids stay on trails. You can't beat the beautiful view.

Info - hiking trails at Bass Lake

39900 Rd 222, Bass Lake, CA 93604, USA

BASS LAKE EXPLORE: FALLS BEACH & ANGEL FALLS

On the north shore of Bass Lake, Falls Beach is an ideal spot to spend the day and watch the sunset. To get there, park off Road 274 where Willow Creek meets Bass Lake. There's a fee for parking -- and the location is worth it.

The day use area at Falls Beach has barbecue, picnic tables, potable water, and plenty of places to play and swim. Bring your chairs and some shade, and set up for the long haul. You've got a terrific view of the lake, room to stretch out, shops and restaurants nearby, and all the time in the world.

Above Falls Beach (over a mile) is Angel Falls. Gorgeous, yes — but the granite rocks are slick, the cold water is swift, and rescues there are frequent. Cascading along Willow Creek, the largest waterfall is about 20-feet. A common destination for hikers, it's also a popular spot for teens. If you're careful, you can make your way to some great swimming holes.

Bass Lake Hiking Trails

N Shore Rd, Bass Lake, CA 93604, USA

BASS LAKE EXPLORE: BALD EAGLES

Look to the skies above for a glimpse of some lofty residents: Bald eagles have been nesting here for in two well-established territories for at least two decades -- cooperatively monitored by Pacific Gas & Electric and the U.S. Forest Service.

A pair of bald eagles first nested here in 1998-99 and the majestic creatures have been an essential part of the wildlife scene at Bass Lake ever since, soaring high above the Ponderosa Pines.

One nest is visible across from The Pines Resort, the other is tucked into a cove. Look for the classic adult coloring of brown body, white tail and head, yellow bill and eyes. Protected by law, eagles can live up to 25 years in the wild.

To humans, a perched eagle may not look busy, but they’re actually defending their territory, looking for hunting opportunities and conserving energy. If you see one, just quietly observe it from a distance, please be respectful and give them at least 50 to 100 meters.

GOOGLE MAP: 37.329507, -119.574970

Bass Lake Bald Eagles

39900 Rd 222, Bass Lake, CA 93604, USA

BASS LAKE EXPLORE: HIKING AROUND BASS LAKE 

How would you like your Bass Lake hike, challenging or easy?

If you're looking to get some exercise with significant elevation gain, try the Spring Cove trail from the campground up to Goat Mountain, west of the lake. The hike up is just over five miles on a sometimes-steep dirt road. History awaits at the top, in the form of an old fire lookout tower.

The Willow Creek trail follows along the creek that feeds Bass Lake, above Falls Beach. You'll see cascades on this three-mile hike, depending on the season. Beware: the granite rock is polished and slippery, the water is icy — use caution when hiking this area.

Want to keep it easy? Just park in one of the free spots along the lake, get out, and walk along the shore. Bass Lake is beautiful in any season, clear and glassy in the morning, colored by sunset in the evening. It's perfect for walking with children, who may keep count of animal tracks along the way. How many can you find?

Bass lake Hiking Trails

Rd 432, Bass Lake, CA 93604, USA

BASS LAKE EXPLORE: GOAT MOUNTAIN & THE DAM

Bass Lake hasn't always been here. The area was once a lush meadow surrounded by pine trees, home to Chukchansi and Mono people. The lake was formed by the concrete construction of the 145-foot Crane Valley Dam across Willow Creek, a tributary to the San Joaquin River. Originally completed in 1910 by Pacific Gas and Electric, about a hundred years later the dam was seismically retrofitted.

While the lake was being built, goats were brought in to tamp down dirt on the valley floor. Later, the goats were let go to roam the foothills nearby, and many found their way to the top of the mountain west of the lake. And that, boys and girls, is how Goat Mountain got its name.

You won't find any goats running around this area now -- native predators took advantage long ago -- but you will find an old, historic fire lookout tower and electronic communications equipment at the top. If you're hiking, watch for horses and mountain bikes.

Bass Lake Hiking Trails

BASS LAKE SHOP

BASS LAKE SHOP: OUT WEST

If you are looking for a fun and unique shop to explore - look no further than Out West in the Pines Village. 

Out West is place where you can find a variety of clothing, gifts, and goods with along with many locally crafted, handmade, and American made items.  

There are many unique and wonderful finds here to satisfy all your family and friends, too! Out West is open 7 days a week in the Summer months and weekends only during the Winter Months. 

54342 Road 432, Bass Lake, CA, United States, California

BASS LAKE SHOP: GOOD OL DAZE

Warning: you may want to spend all day browsing the many rooms of Good Ol' Daze and its neighbor the Bass Lake Corner Store, lost in retail revelry. It's okay: the goods and prices are great, so you're safe.

Specializing in high-quality gifts, clothing, accessories, and tasty treats like chocolate and jelly beans, Good Ol' Daze is a welcome retreat from the bustling lake, whether you're looking for a cool souvenir, cold soda, or hot new beach wrap. There's a whole room for wine-lovers. Order a Bass Lake Blaster at the old-fashioned counter — it's a delicious icy slush of lemonade with your choice of Torani flavored syrup.

goodoldaze.com/

54310 Rd 432, Bass Lake, CA 93604, USA

BASS LAKE EAT

BASS LAKE EAT: DINING AT DUCEY'S ON THE LAKE

Few dining experiences compare with those overlooking the water, from the vantagepoint of Ducey's on the Lake, downstairs at The Pines Resort, and Ducey's Bar and Grill upstairs. You can't go wrong either way, with a perfect mix of lodge style and easy elegance — and naturally, perfect food.

At Ducey's on the Lake, guests enjoy fine dining under the guidance of a dedicated chef, with farm-to-table and organic selections featured beside American classics. A favorite of locals and visitors, Ducey's is the go-to for holidays including Easter, Mothers and Fathers Days, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's Eve and New Year's Day. And watch for sunset specials.

Upstairs, Ducey's Bar & Grill is a more casual interpretation of the same high standards, including delicious menu items and great service. Stop by for a drink at the bar or a meal with friends and family -- open all year in all weather, Ducey's never disappoints.

www.basslake.com/dining

BASS LAKE EAT: THE PINES MARKET & DELI

The Pines Market and Deli has a little bit of everything to keep the traveler happy.

From personal items you need lake-or-poolside (think sunscreen, magazines, snacks, sandwiches, toys and treats), to a full stock of canned goods and camping supplies, you'll find it all, including a small meat department for those who want to cook. Friendly service and local knowledge tucked in with ice cream, clothes, fishing gear, and fishing licenses.

Be sure to check out the deli items at the lunch counter in the back, where you can easily pick up to-go for your hike, picnic or day at the lake. Favorites include burritos, chicken wings, and hot dogs. When there's a special on tri-tip sandwiches, it's your lucky day

BASS LAKE EAT: PINES VILLAGE BAKERY & PIZZERIA

All that outdoor activity around the lake makes a body hungry. When that happens and you want a quick and easy meal, head to the Pines Village Bakery and Pizzeria, where you can get what you need from ice cream, burgers, and breakfast sandwiches to chicken wings, smoothies, espresso drinks, and namesake design-your-own pizza.

Here's a tip: generously portioned calzones serve two people, while outdoor seating enhances the dining and makes for great people watching, too. This is where you go when you want to take a break.

The Pines Village Bakery and Pizzeria is a family-friendly place that's great for kicking back or as a respite while shopping around the village. You can call ahead for to-go orders and, when you're there, don't forget to try the root beer float.

facebook.com/pinesbakery/

54362 Rd 432, Bass Lake, CA 93604, USA

BASS LAKE EAT: CASA VELASCO MEXICAN RESTAURANT

Looking for some of the best, most authentic Mexican food in the mountains? Family-owned Casa Velasco serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, coffee and drinks in a casual atmosphere that's ideal for intimate meals or larger groups and parties. Reservations are available, walk-ins are welcome, and you can also order to-go.

Tucked away in a quiet corner just a few steps away from The Pines Village at Bass Lake, Casa Velasco offers generous portions and great service, with seasonal favorites, including homemade tortilla soup in cooler months. Dine at tables, booths, or on the breezy, covered outdoor patio and take advantage of the full bar. Crayons and paper available for young artists who wish to color while they wait.

You'll see lots of locals eating out at this charming little restaurant, for good reason. Popular on the menu are sizzling fajitas, chimichangas, and anything with Casa Velasco's famous chili Verde sauce. Salud!

facebook.com/CasaVelasco

54311 Rd 432, Bass Lake, CA 93604, USA

BASS LAKE EAT & DRINK: THE PINES BAR

Tucked away off the main sidewalk at the The Pines Village, the Pines Bar offers a down-home, rustic environment with a great selection of beers on tap — the perfect place to sneak away for a drink. The place has everything a good bar needs from darts and billiards to a dance floor, ceiling fans and a big outside deck.

Open seven days a week, Thursday nights are reserved for karaoke. On weekends you can usually dance to tunes spun by a DJ or played live by a band. 

Here's a fun fact: The Pines Bar was one of the prized Bass Lake locations filmed in the 1988 comedy classic The Great Outdoors, starring Dan Aykroyd and John Candy. These days, you'll find locals and visitors seated together at the long bar featured in the movie. Check out the story behind the flick, framed on the wall near the dance floor. (The area has been home to many movie productions over the years. You can find out more about many of them here).

21+over

31 Fun Things To Do at Bass Lake
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Our annual Visit Yosemite | Madera County Visitors Guide can answer all your questions about visiting California's Gateway to Yosemite. From the park itself to the museums, wineries, art galleries and more throughout Madera County, our guide can help you plan the perfect vacation. Please note that we mail to the USA only, but anyone can download the guide.
Visit Yosemite - Madera County
Oakhurst Visitor Center, 40343 Highway 41, Oakhurst, CA 93644
(559) 683-4636
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