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Cherry Lake Boat Launch
North of Highway 120, off Cherry Lake Road. Fish and boat on the largest lake on the Forest. From Groveland District Office head east on Highway 120. Approximately 5 miles, turn left on Cherry Lake Road. Follow Cherry Lake Road 20 miles to Cherry Lake. There are no cell, fuel, grocery, or water services at Cherry Lake. Visitors are advised to plan accordingly.
Check current fire restrictions when planning your trip at Stanislaus National Forest - Fire Management (usda.gov)
California Campfire Permit is required to have fire in a dispersed campsite. Campfire permits can be obtained for free at any Forest Service office or online at https://www.readyforwildfire.org/permits/
At a Glance
| Current Conditions: | ... |
|---|---|
| Operational Hours: | Day use. With water levels decreasing in late season. Winter snow may close road access to the lake. For current conditions call 209-962-7825. |
| Reservations: | First Come - First Serve |
| Usage: | Light-Medium |
| Best Season: | Memorial Day to Labor Day |
| Busiest Season: | Holidays |
| Restrictions: | No parking, camping, or swimming on the boat ramp. |
| Closest Towns: | Tuolumne City, Sonora, and Groveland |
| Restroom: | Vault Toilets |
| Operated By: | US Forest Service |
Activities
Campground Camping
There is camping available at the Cherry Valley Campground. Reservations are available online at recreation.gov
Dispersed Camping
Dispersed camping is available around the lake 100 feet above the high water mark.
California Campfire Permit is required to have fire in a dispersed campsite. Campfire permits can be obtained for free at any Forest Service office or online at https://www.readyforwildfire.org/permits/
Lake and Pond Fishing
Available at Cherry Lake. All visitors fishing are required to follow California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations.
Day Hiking
Cherry Lake Campground has a trail to Cherry Lake near site #10. Additionally, trailheads to Lake Eleanor, Kibbie Lake, and Kibbie Ridge on the Emigrant and Yosemite Wilderness Areas are located across the Cherry Lake Dam.
Picnicking
| Fire Information | Campfire permits are not required within developed day use sites; however, campfires are limited to the grills provided. Campfire permits are required if you plan to build a campfire or use a camp stove outside a recreational vehicle away from a developed campground. Permits are free and may be obtained at the Groveland Ranger District. |
Boating - Motorized
Cherry Lake boaters must follow California Department of Boating and Waterways regulations: http://www.dbw.ca.gov when open.
Boating - Non-Motorized
Available at Cherry Lake located next to campground. Boat trailer parking is available near the boat ramp. Boaters must follow California Department of Boating and Waterways regulations: http://www.dbw.ca.gov
Swimming
Available at Cherry Lake located next to the campground. Swimming near the boat ramp is not recommended.
Waterskiing
Available at Cherry Lake located next to the campground. Boat trailer parking is available near the boat ramp. Boaters must follow California Department of Boating and Waterways regulations: http://www.dbw.ca.gov
Windsurfing
Available at Cherry Lake located next to the campground. Boat trailer parking is available near the boat ramp. Boaters must follow California Department of Boating and Waterways regulations: http://www.dbw.ca.gov