Last weekend, we had the pleasure of escaping reality and headed to Bass Lake, CA. Our family had an amazing, relaxing, yet adventurous time exploring the area. Even in the off-season, there is so much to do at Bass Lake. We got invited to stay at The Pines Resort, a beautiful lakefront resort on Bass Lake. You may remember this property from the movie The Great Outdoors, with John Candy and Dan Aykroyd.
Before our stay, the hotel sent emails with fun facts about the property. I’ve never had a hotel do this before, and it got me excited for our trip weeks before we took off. Here’s my review of The Pines Resort at Bass Lake.
Bass Lake is in central California, only 18 miles from the South entrance of Yosemite National Park.
It’s a great location to visit from Northern and Southern California, the drive is not too long, and it’s easy. If you make the trip, Yosemite is a must-see! Be sure to check whether or not Yosemite requires reservations to enter the park. I know you will need reservations from May 20 through September 30, 2022.
Cozy Lodging at The Pines Resort Chalet
duplex cabin chalet
We stayed in a Lakeview 2 queen bed chalet. The chalets are two-story duplex mountain cabins with a cozy rustic vibe, perfect for small families. You can rent the connecting duplex if you have a larger family or want to travel with friends.
full kitchen upstairs
The chalet has a full kitchen, fireplace, flatscreen tv, balcony, and a loft upstairs.
The loft in our Chalet
Downstairs has a bathroom and bedroom with two queen beds. There is an entrance on both levels, and you can walk to the pool, beach, restaurant, and shops from your chalet. Nothing is too far away.
The Pines Resort also has lakeside suites, full cabins, and luxury rentals available if you are looking for other accomidations.
the view from the balcony
Pool & Hot Tub
The pool and hot tub have a beautiful view of the lake, making it the perfect spot to relax after a day on the lake or hiking. They have some pool floaties for the kids and towels available for guests to use in the pool area. You have to leave towels there, so bring a sweatshirt or coverup to walk back to your room. It gets chilly in March.
the swimming pool and hot tub overlooking Bass Lake
Dog-Friendly Option
We left Pete with family, but they have some pet-friendly rooms available with an additional pet fee. As a bonus, the pet package comes with some fun goodies.
Eat at Ducey’s on the lake.
Ducey’s on The Lake is the onsite restaurant at The Pines Resort. The view at all times of day is gorgeous but especially at sunset. And the food is delicious. We ate here two nights in a row because the food was so good and the service was even better. Sara, our server, was friendly, knew the menu inside and out, and was very attentive.
filet mingon, mashed potatoes, and mushrooms from Ducey’s on The Lake
At lunch, Ducey’s Bar & Grill has an outdoor patio again, with a lake view. It is a great place to relax and have lunch. The menu isn’t the best for gluten-free items, but they are accommodating and will do a lettuce-wrapped burger for you. The girls loved their meals from the kid’s menu.
Tons of Activities on Site
The Pines Resort is right on Bass Lake. You can hang out on the beach, rent kayaks, pontoon boats, and paddleboards from the boat shop on the dock. Bring a fishing pole with you or rent one for a morning of fishing on the lake.
There are a lot of outdoor options! You can also shop at the market and local stores next to the resort lobby for souvenirs.
The soft-serve ice cream is definitely worth getting if you like ice cream.
The Pines Resort is a great place to vacation with family! We can’t wait to go back soon!
Book your stay directly with The Pines Resort at Bass Lake for the best deal!
Do you need more things to do at Bass Lake and nearby? I’ll have a post up with some ideas in the next few days.
A huge thank you to The Pines Resort and Ducey’s on The Lake for hosting us and for the local gifts!
