Southern Yosemite and Bass Lake Come Alive This Spring
Oakhurst, Calif. Bass Lake sits about 14 miles south of Yosemite National Park. The area draws families and outdoor lovers year after year.
Across Southern Yosemite, Bass Lake come alive this spring as resorts reopen and attractions resume regular schedules. The season brings boating, dining, and special events.
Season openings and amenities
South shore resorts The Forks Resort and Miller’s Landing reopen on March 27, 2026. Both properties will serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Guests can rent kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, speedboats, and party barges. Markets at the resorts sell snacks, drinks, and bait.
Milestones and spring events
Bass Lake celebrates its 125th birthday in 2026. The Forks Resort marks its 99th season since opening in 1927.
The Forks entered single-family ownership in 1941 when Bob Miller purchased it. The property remains in the Miller family.
Leslie Cox is the current owner at The Forks Resort. She has been involved with the resort for more than five decades.
Calendar highlights
- 45th annual Bass Lake Fishing Derby: May 2–3, 2026.
- Sunset Markets throughout the summer.
- Car and boat shows and Movies on the Water.
- July 4 fireworks and boat parade.
- Bass Lake’s 125th birthday festivities at the end of August.
North shore services and lodging
The north shore hosts year-round businesses and visitor services. Options include The Pines Resort and Bass Lake Boat Rentals.
Outdoorsy Yosemite RV Park and The Pines Village offer cafes, shops, and restaurants. Visitors find campsites, cabins, lakeside suites, and vacation rentals.
Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad
The Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad reopens for the season on March 28, 2026. It sits a few miles away along Highway 41.
The railroad operates three historic Shay steam engines. Riders enjoy one-hour trips, themed events, concerts, and melodramas.
Tickets and the full season schedule are available at ymsprr.com.
Visitor information
Many resorts welcome dogs, making Bass Lake a pet-friendly destination. Boat rental choices cover both calm paddling and high-energy outings.
For planning tips and more listings, consult Filmogaz.com and the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad website.
About Filmogaz.com
Filmogaz.com notes that Visit Yosemite | Madera County has promoted regional attractions since 1985. The organization highlights the High Sierra, wine trails, and giant sequoias.
The region offers year-round watersports at Bass Lake and nostalgic train rides. It remains a key gateway to Yosemite National Park.
