Bass Lake, Point Reyes Seashore
Hiking area
04 (21)
12245 Annie Oak Dr, Bolinas, CA 94924
LakeCA
Bass Lake
By Hidden Swimming Holes Team · Record updated
Background photo from a past visit, not current conditions. View photos and source links
Plan the Bass Lake hike near Bolinas in Point Reyes, with Palomarin access, shore conditions, toilets, park rules and reviewed photos.
Water type
Lake
Access
Informal
Fee
Free
Best season
Check weather and park advisories
Nearby towns
San Francisco, Marin, Bolinas
Water body
Bass Lake
Location
Map & Directions
Nearby towns
San Francisco, Marin, Bolinas
Access location not verified
37.9507, -122.7645
Recorded coordinates have not been source-checked. Confirm the entrance and legal access before using directions.
A closer look
Photos of Bass Lake
Photos show past visits, not current water levels or swimming conditions. Select a photo to view it larger.
Sources & checks
This is a desk-researched listing. A record update or map check does not confirm current swimming permission or water conditions.
- Swimming rules
- Official sources checked . See the rules above and check for current closures.
- Access location not verified
- The recorded location has no completed source check. Confirm the entrance, legal access, and parking before travelling.
- Record updated
- · This is a data update, not a field visit.
Found an error? Send a correction with the location and a source. How we research listings.
Bass Lake near Bolinas
This is the small wilderness lake in Point Reyes National Seashore, not the larger Bass Lake near Yosemite. Plan a hike from Palomarin Trailhead, not a drive to the shoreline.
Swimming and shore access
NPS describes swimming here as unofficial, with no lifeguards. Shore access is difficult and poison oak is common. Photos are not evidence of current water quality or a safe entry point.
Plan the walk
The NPS hike guide describes roughly six miles round trip on the Coast Trail, including an unmaintained shore spur. Bring a trail map and check trail advisories before setting out.
Facilities and overnight trips
Use the vault toilets at Palomarin before hiking; there are none at the lake. Pets are prohibited on this route. Overnight trips require a permit for an authorized campsite, not an informal lakeside clearing. See the official hike guide and park camping information.
Getting There
Use Palomarin Trailhead at the end of Mesa Road near Bolinas. The final road section is unpaved. Parking can fill early and entry may be restricted when full. Follow the Coast Trail northwest toward Bass Lake using the official NPS map; the shore spur is unmaintained. Allow approximately six miles round trip and check current trail advisories.
Quick Navigation
Access Notes
Hike-in access from Palomarin; no drive-up lakeside parking. Parking availability can restrict entry. Pets are not allowed on the Coast Trail or at Bass Lake.
Plan Your Visit
Parking & Access
Confirm the entrance, parking arrangements, and legal access with the land manager. A map pin does not establish a public right of access. Follow posted routes and never block gates or driveways.
Regulations & Fees
Current swimming permission has not been independently confirmed for this listing. Check official rules, fees, hours, and closures before visiting. Public park access does not necessarily include permission to swim. Respect private property and posted restrictions.
Seasonality & Flow
Water conditions can change quickly. This listing does not provide a current safety or water-quality assessment. Check official alerts and avoid entering water when conditions or permission are uncertain.
What to Bring
Bring sturdy water shoes to protect your feet on rocks and slippery surfaces. A waterproof dry bag keeps your phone, keys, and valuables safe. Pack a quick-dry towel, sun protection, and drinking water - never drink from the natural water source.
Nearby Facilities
Nearby places from saved public map data, not necessarily facilities at the swimming spot. Confirm access, hours, fees, and amenities with the operator before you drive.
Map data retrieved 2026-06-15
Bass Lake
Lake
04.6 (13)
California 94924
Parking Lot Alamere WaterFalls
Parking lot
1.5 mi
4.5 (2)
Unnamed Road, Bolinas, CA 94924
Palomarin Trailhead
Park
1.5 mi
4.7 (470)
Palomarin Trail Head, Bolinas, CA 94924
Trailhead & vault toilets for a challenging 6.5 mile hiking route taking in dramatic coastal falls.
Picnic tablesPublic restroom
Bear Valley Visitor Center
Visitor center
6.5 mi
4.8 (1290)
1 Bear Valley Visitor Center Access Road, Point Reyes Station, CA 94956
Restroom
Pantoll Campground
Campground
9.3 mi
4.6 (207)
3801 Panoramic Hwy, Mill Valley, CA 94941
Campground in Mount Tamalpais State Park featuring basic tent sites with fire rings & toilets.
Public restroomPublic showerRestroomRunning water
Bicentennial Campground
Campground
15.6 mi
4.5 (52)
Conzelman Rd, Sausalito, CA 94965
Small, basic headland tent campground with 3 sites, nearby parking & BBQ grills available.
Public restroomPublic showerRestroomRunning water
Public Restroom
Public bathroom
16.8 mi
4.6 (37)
768 Bridgeway, Sausalito, CA 94965
Live Conditions Nearby
Checking nearby USGS water conditions…
Frequently Asked Questions About Bass Lake
Is Bass Lake free to visit?
This listing reports no entry fee. Confirm current parking charges, permits, and day-use fees with the land manager before visiting.
Is swimming allowed at Bass Lake?
Current swimming permission has not been independently confirmed for Bass Lake. Public park access does not necessarily include permission to swim. Check with the land manager and follow posted restrictions.
What type of swimming spot is Bass Lake?
Bass Lake is a lake on Bass Lake located in California, near San Francisco. Plan the Bass Lake hike near Bolinas in Point Reyes, with Palomarin access, shore conditions, toilets, park rules and reviewed photos.
When is the best time to visit Bass Lake?
Seasonal planning notes: Check weather and park advisories; arrive early for parking. No warm-water guarantee. Water levels, clarity, and temperature vary with recent weather. Check current conditions before going, especially after rain or snowmelt.
What facilities are available at Bass Lake?
Reported facilities at Bass Lake include: Use trailhead toilets before hiking. Bring your own drinking water and pack out waste. Amenities can change - contact the managing agency or check recent visitor reports to confirm current availability.
Is camping available near Bass Lake?
Use authorized Point Reyes backcountry campsites with a permit. Do not assume lakeside camping is allowed.
Highlights
Wooded wilderness lake near Bolinas
Coast Trail approach from Palomarin
Unofficial swimming without lifeguards
Unique Features
Wooded lake setting
Coastal hiking approach
Location & Area Map
Safety Information
Important Safety Tips
- Difficult shore access, poison oak and no lifeguards
- Do not rely on old photos for water conditions or entry-point safety
- Check park advisories before visiting
Cultural & Historical Context
Historical Background
Part of Point Reyes National Seashore, historically inhabited by the Coast Miwok people. Reflects the area's natural and cultural heritage.
Photography Guide
Photo Opportunities
Wooded lake panoramas and shoreline vegetation. Stay on established paths.
Conservation & Ethics
Protect This Place
Follow Leave No Trace principles to protect the lake’s ecosystem. Avoid disturbing wildlife and dispose of waste responsibly.
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At a Glance
Best Time to Visit
Check weather and park advisories; arrive early for parking. No warm-water guarantee.
Difficulty Level
Moderate hike, approximately six miles round trip including the shore approach.
Fee
Free
Facilities
Use trailhead toilets before hiking. Bring your own drinking water and pack out waste.
Activities
Hiking, unofficial swimming
Phone
415-464-5100 (Point Reyes National Seashore)
Safety & Access Notice
This information is for general planning only and may be incomplete, outdated, or inaccurate. Access rules, closures, water levels, currents, hazards, and legal restrictions can change at any time. Always verify current rules with the land manager or official source before visiting.
You are responsible for your own safety and for following all posted signs, laws, and local regulations. Read the full disclaimer.
Camping Information
Use authorized Point Reyes backcountry campsites with a permit. Do not assume lakeside camping is allowed.
Nearby Attractions
- Point Reyes National Seashore - National Seashore
- Bolinas - Town
- Stinson Beach - State Beach
- Muir Woods National Monument - National Monument
- Tomales Bay - Bay / Water Recreation Area
- Mount Tamalpais State Park - State Park
- Olema - Town
Loading weather data…
Safety & Access Notice
This information is for general planning only and may be incomplete, outdated, or inaccurate. Access rules, closures, water levels, currents, hazards, and legal restrictions can change at any time. Always verify current rules with the land manager or official source before visiting.
- Do not swim where swimming is prohibited, unsafe, or not clearly allowed.
- Follow posted signs, local regulations, closures, and private-property boundaries.
- Assess conditions on site. Water flow, depth, temperature, and underwater hazards change quickly.
- Never jump or dive without personally confirming depth and underwater obstacles.
- Swim with a buddy and consider flotation for weak or non-swimmers.
- Pack out all trash; respect wildlife and fragile environments.
You are responsible for your own safety and for following all posted signs, laws, and local regulations. Read the full disclaimer.
J
Joshua Havens
Founder & Editor, Hidden Swimming Holes
Joshua Havens created Hidden Swimming Holes to make it easier for people to find — and safely visit — natural freshwater swimming destinations across the United States. He researches access conditions, water quality resources, and land management rules so you don't have to start from scratch. He holds a strong belief that good outdoor recreation information should be accurate, honest about its limitations, and freely available.
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