Lake life comes alive

Bass Lake is known by locals and visitors for its sparkling warm waters, abundance of outdoor activities, family-friendly resorts and amazing lakeside dining.

Families return year after year, making this destination a tradition packed with memories, activities and relaxing days on the water.

Now, finally, lake days are here and the south shore has reset. The Forks Resort and Miller’s Landing Resort opened for the season on Friday, March 27.

As always, they’re offering delicious food favorites with spectacular views of Bass Lake.

From modern cabins and boat rentals (kayaks, SUPs, speedboats and party barges), the resorts have all the necessary lakeside essentials including drinks, snacks, bait and souvenirs.

Dogs are welcome, too, so bring the whole family and enjoy lake life.

Happy birthday, Bass Lake!

This year is extra special for the region as Bass Lake celebrates its 125th birthday while The Forks Resort welcomes its 99th season since opening and its 85th year of single-family ownership.

The Forks Resort originally opened its doors in 1927 and was bought in 1941 by Bob Miller, the grandfather of current owner Leslie Cox, marking 2026 as the 85th season of operation under her family.

“Bass Lake has been my home and my heart for my entire life,” said Leslie Cox. “After more than 50 years at The Forks Resort, I’ve seen firsthand how this special place brings generations of families together — and it is our team that makes those moments possible.”

Among other elements of running the resort, Cox said she loves the privilege and responsibility of giving local youth their first jobs.

“I’m grateful for the talented and hard-working staff I work alongside with each season,” she said.

“It’s their hard work and love of Bass Lake that defines who we are. And there is nothing quite like the energy of opening season as we all come together to welcome our guests back to the lake.”

Summer sails in with the much-anticipated 45th annual Bass Lake Fishing Derby, May 2-3.

“And it only gets better from there with Sunset Markets, car and boat shows, Movies on the Water, July 4th fireworks and boat parade, Bass Lake’s 125th birthday at the end of August and plenty of perfect lake days in between,” said Miller’s Landing owner, Michelle Miller.

“Nothing beats seeing all of our favorite faces back at the lake.”

Beyond the south shore

The north shore of Bass Lake is home to year-round businesses including The Pines Resort, Bass Lake Boat Rentals, Outdoorsy Yosemite RV Park and an incredible assortment of family owned cafes, shops and restaurants in The Pines Village.

From campsites and cabins to lakeside suites and vacation rentals, Bass Lake has accommodations for every vacation style.

Just a few miles away along Highway 41, visitors can take a scenic ride through the Sierra National Forest on the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad, which also opened for the season last week.

The railroad is home to three historic Shay steam engines, delighting passengers from spring through the winter holidays with classic one-hour rides and themed special events, concerts and melodramas.

For the full railroad schedule and to reserve tickets, visit www.ymsprr.com/

For more on Bass Lake, visit www.yosemitethisyear.com/31-things-we-love-about-bass-lake