What a unique find! We were looking for a vacation within a few hours of home and stumbled upon TH. Looking at the rentals we noticed some had access to this private lake, which sounded great, so we decided to check it out and found it was totally worth it. At first the long list of rules and the $8 fee per person may be a bit off putting, but once you get there you'll understand the benefits that come from them. The beach is incredibly clean and large enough to accommodate quite a few families and there is ample parking. There are large trees shading benches along a well kept concrete path, all perfect for resting your belongings on less busy days. The trees also cast shade a good distance onto the beach, so you have some options for shade. I would still say a good umbrella is recommended, as the shade could fill up. The water feels cool when you get in but once you're under it's really nice. The water and lake are also very clean, with a nice sandy bottom. If you go out a little further you may encounter some algae as it gets deeper, but all in all it's a fantastic lake to swim in. There are water slides, sunning platforms in the middle if you swim out that far, great space for paddle boards and kayaks, and even a diving board in the deepest part and granite beach next to it. After 6pm it's free to enter and you can fish along the dam too. They said it's stocked with trout but we didn't find any. We did catch some bluegill though! read more

See all

You have to have a membership to enter but this is the little piece of paradise we've dreamed of. Bring your own rafts and chairs. Just spent two days for my hubbys birthday. It was hot out and the lake was perfect. read more

Twain Harte Lake - Lakes Near Me - Twain Harte, California

See all

Please do research before coming here we just drove 24 minutes just to be turned around . I guess you have to have a membership to come swimming here . This was not mentioned on the website . Very disappointed read more

Twain Harte was on the calendar but so were spiking air temperatures so it didn't come as a total surprise when my car's temperature gauge recorded 112 degree heat as I neared the town. Thank God though, for Twain Harte Lake. I don't want to pretend that Twain Harte Lake is accessible for all of those hoping to chill out during a heat wave. It's a private lake, accessible only to those whose house has "lake rights" for which they've paid a precious price. If you're renting a house in Twain Harte though, those lake rights might also extend to you. If it's summer, I sure hope your house rental includes this perk. As it currently stands, advance reservations are needed even with lake privileges. Parking and check-in are painless and once past that check-in you'll find a clean, refreshing lake with several docks to swim to, some with slides, some with diving boards. For those who don't want to sit on the sand, a walkway across the dam takes you to the big rock that abuts one side of the lake (you can also swim there). Just like the sandy area, lifeguards are present, watching over everything. For a place that's already limited in access, Twain Harte Lake does have a lot of additional rules which might make the place cleaner and more organized but definitely lessen your autonomy. Outside food and drink are prohibited as are tents or pop-ups for sheltering from the sun; beach umbrellas are allowed and one can purchase food and drink on-site from the snack bar. Rafts, inner tubes, and fishing are allowed and additional water toys (e.g. paddle boards) are available for rent. The wait list to gain access to Twain Harte Lake can be interminable (15 years in some cases) but I can say definitively that if I were purchasing or renting a place in Twain Harte, lake access would be among my requirements. Yes, it's exclusive and not absolutely required (Pinecrest Lake is open to all and less than 20 miles away) but when it's 112 degrees out and you're already in Twain Harte, the closest lake will likely be the most attractive. Twain Harte Lake is a pleasant experience for those with access. read more

Relaxing sunset walk! Need resident access to enjoy. We were staying at a bnb nearby.

Secret spot located at the other side of the dam, quiet and secluded from the crowds, has trees for shade. Jumping boards next to rock is super fun, lifeguard nearby. Can also swim to the floating deck with friends to chillout. Lap swimming roped off area parallel to dam for those who want to concentrate on exercising. Snack bar sells food and snacks, prices are reasonable. A wooden deck with tables and chairs under a great big tree for natural shade to eat comfortably. Water temperature is warm during July, similar to Hawaii's beaches; very comfortable to float, relax, and cool down on a hot day. read more

The beaches are overrun with easy ups and it's really an eyesore in such a beautiful place. The beaches seem overcrowded making the lake hard to get to. I have been going there for years and it has really become a place I would sooner avoid. read more

We have come camping here every summer, multiple times. I reccomend booking 6months in advanced if you can. Things fill up VERY QUICKLY. The grounds are organized by a,b,c,d loops for easy locating. Only Verizon works up here so plan around no cell service otherwise. The grounds are clean and bathrooms get stocked up. Bring flashlights because only the bathrooms near the lake have lights. There are no RV hookups, this is tent camping. There are cabins for rent if you choose. During the day the lake area is nice for kids. Sandy Beach but can be cold water until auGust. Expect water to be too cold in may/June. This is melted snow water There is a trail that goes all around the lake for hiking. If you an advanced hiker, I suggest cleos bath. You can rent at the lake kayaks, motor boats under 5 ppl. You will need a party boat for large groups and you will not get it on the weekend unless you reserved ahead of time. I highly suggest swimming on the other side of the lake, water is clearer and cleaner. There is bathrooms as well. You will need a boat to get to the other side. Rent a motor boat it is worth it. Side note, most camping spots will only fit 1 truck, maybe 2 cars very tightly and crooked. They won't let u park on the dirt. You will need to go to over flow. A loop is closest to the lake but d loop is my favorite. They even have outdoor movies for kids. Quiet time is usually at 10pm This is NOT a party spot. Tip: if you can't get into pinecrest campgrounds you can go to the camp grounds next door which is first come first serve. And they are not as strict as pinecrest. Quiet time past 10 is more relaxed. Tip: showers near the convenient store are closed due to covid. Also, bring cash they have a the best soft serve ice cream. And the burger truck has the best food ever! read more

I've only been in this lake once. And once was enough. The water had debris floating in it. Water was filthy. I'll not want any of my friends or family to use the lake with the low quality of water in it. read more

Twain Harte lake is so much fun. Little kids swim and slide in the safe zone. Bigger kids kayak, paddle board around the lake. And adults have a peaceful relaxing experience doing all that too. There is a snack shake with food for lunch. read more

This lake is absolutely so beautiful maybe because it's membership only lake. We went on a weekday at 85 degrees and it was perfect. Very clean and relaxing spot. Has diving boards on one side and also has water slides a little passed shore for the kids. Playground with swings and bathrooms. SnAck bar open on weekends and no coolers since don't want a bee problem but get a stamp and go eat at car and come back in! Can't wait to come back!! read more

See all

You can't not LOVE Twain Harte and Twain Harte lake. I have school girl crush-like nervousness in my stomach just thinking about going this weekend. It reminds me (for some reason) of the lake in Dirty Dancing, not necessarily the one PS picks up Baby in, but the scene where she is playing with the wigs on the beach with her sister. I LOVE IT! Don't forget to catch breakfast at the Sportsman and hike the flume around the later part of the afternoon B4 dusk. See you Friday TH! read more

Omg!!! There is absolutely nothing wrong here. The baby lake is so perfect for my son (10 w/ DS). He loves the atmosphere here. Nothing too crazy or loud! read more

Seriously, the best hidden gem ever. The lake is amazing.

An enjoyable place in the mountains during the summer. The lake is closed during the other seasons but it's private and controlled by the gate house for verification of ownership or rental and the number of people allowed. Lifeguards are on duty during operating hours and it's kept clean There is a snack shack that serves good food read more

This is where the privileged go to lounge among the translation forest surrounding them. Dearest Yelp readers allow me to explain. In biological terms, oaks, also known as a leaf tree, give way to pine trees here which create glorious fall colors for us all to enjoy. Now about this lake: it's rude to exclude but unless you belong to this club or owner ship group don't plan gaining entry. The city Fathers really blew it to set a diamond here in this magical Forrest only to exclude non members. It's like that curtain on airliners. Glimpse but no going in. Update, I noticed there is now a rental sign which proudly proclaims "lake membership" to entice potential clients. read more

Great place, clean, private. The lifeguards make it easy for the parents to relax.Fantastic Snack Shack top notch food, all for under $10.00 Fishing off the dam for 16 and under read more

Still cannot get over being charged $.50 for a TINY cup of water and could not get a refill. The explanation I received was the water bottles they charge for $1 could be refilled and taken to the beach, but the cups could not. So, by not offering a refill of WATER on the cup you PAID FOR would deter people from bringing the cup back to the beach. I don't see the logic. Also, there is a drinking fountain on the beach, so if you were just refused a refill you could just take your cup there and just ditch it where ever you want in spite of this ridiculous policy.. As a suggestion I would say offer a refill but make sure to explain that the cups are not allowed on the beach. I'm sure the employees have to hear about this policy from angry customers all day long. It really is a great way to make people upset.. Please change this policy Twain Harte Lake!! read more

Like the other reviewers, I agree that Twain Harte lake is a beautiful lake and great place to spend a summer day. The one downside, is the gestapo type attitude the owners(?) take to policing all their rules... and there are a ton of 'em. No outside food or drinks. No food or drinks beyond the snack area. No lids on soft drink cups (because apparently that will encourage someone to walk out of the designated food area with their Diet Coke) No large floating toys in the lake. No swim diapers on kids. No no no... They need to loosen up a little! Other than that, love it. read more

Love the Middle islands for the kids to play super nice area, does require membership though!

I love Twain Harte Lake! So much fun. Unlike other lakes that get ruined with litter and trash this place is clean and pristine! There are a lot of rules to be followed but that is what keeps the lake so perfect! Tuesdays and Thursday night bingo is so much fun and they have great prizes. They have a "Dam Duck Race" at the end of the summer that Local business owner Tim Ewing started in 2010 and it's great! Nothing like seeing hundreds of little yellow duckies with shades on floating across the lake while enjoying free wine and "quackers". This place holds so many speacial memories and I look forward to going back for years! read more

Great place to spend summer vacation! I come to Twain Harte every summer and Twain Harte Lake is always the highlight of my trip. Nice cool water to cool off in during the hot days of the Summer, with raft docks around the lake, a couple water slides near the beach, and diving boards across the lake in the deep water. There's also a great little Snack Shack for lunch, early dinner, or frozen treats whenever you want them! Always willing to help, the lifeguards are fantastic and even provide two weeks of free swimming lessons for kids every summer. It's always a great time at the lake! read more

Twain Harte Lake - The lake on a hot summer day! - Lakes Near Me - Twain Harte, California

Been coming here for 40 years. Kids, grand kids, everybody loves it. Always a refreshing swim. Don't forget to buy the kids a snowcone! read more

Twain Harte Lake - Lakes Near Me - Twain Harte, California

See all

What's not to love? It's clean, safe, fun and beautiful. Yes, there are lots of rules and because of the rules... refer to the previous sentence.... it's clean, safe, fun and beautiful!! Love love love my days relaxing and playing with family and friends at Twain Harte Lake. Oh and don't forget to hit the snack shack. The food is terrific and well priced. read more

See all

If your looking for a nice relaxing lake to take a dip in this is not the spot. Private membership required to access. Basically they fenced off what could have been a beautiful public lake so that upper middle class white families don't have to be bothered by anyone. Signs posted for no loud music, dogs, or alcohol. So basically I you like fun of any kind, this is not the spot. The lifeguards came out to tell us that our bus was taking up too much space and they had gotten complaints.... It fits in a regular sized space so.... They were nice and directed us to pine crest lake about 30 min north, but still bad vibes all around from twain heart. read more

A hidden gem in the sierras! Clean and safe , great place to bring the family. The water is warm by July and the beach is always groomed.The Snack Shack is wonderful, burger, fries and ice cream treats does not matter read more

Just returned a few hours ago from Twain Harte and visiting the lake for 3 days. My husband and I both went here separately as kids and now return to take our kids. So many great memories both new and old. I love that they have slides, diving boards, swings and plenty to do for kids. Rules are strict-no outside food and food/drink only by the snack bar, but I guess it keeps the place clean! My kids were determined to pass the swim test so they could have all access to the lake without us having to be with them constantly. They even have compressed air to blow up your rafts and float toys. Not much has changed here over time including the warden type ladies who run the front gate! Gotta laugh it off as they seem to take this job more seriously than guards at a national border! read more

I too have been coming to Twain Harte Lake since I was a little girl in diapers. Now, thirty years later, I love it even more. They have done an incredible job of keeping this lake in pristine shape. The beach is always clean and the lake itself is so well managed it's most impressive. The left hand side of the lake is generally where the kids congregate due to the slide and swing set. They also have the ropes in full force which means if you are a child and have not passed the swim test, you have to stay within the ropes unless supervised by a parent. The right side of the lake closest to the Snack Shack is where most of the older crowd hangs out. You'll find card tables and lounge chairs and a somewhat quieter experience during the busier summer months. The Snack Shack is a great place for a burger, frosty or snow cone. I personally recommend the corn dog and French fries. There is no better feeling than being out in the middle of the lake on a raft with a book and just watching the sun bouncing off the water. Ahhhhh. Thank you to all who contribute to the up-keep of this beach. However just one question, do you really need to yell at every kid who runs on the bridge. Trust me it is a frightening experience to here the words through the megaphone, "Walk on the beach please... THANK YOU." Still gives me the chills a little. read more

I've been going up to Twain Harte since I was a baby (and my mother since she was nine years old) and the lake is ALWAYS a must, no matter how short the stay. My grandfather was the manager for many years, and the current manager (Dennis, who seems to know everyone) is a good family friend. And I must say, I think the lake only gets better with each passing year. The snack shack is still churning out their amazing burgers (though the snow cones could have a little less ice in them), the bridge over the dam is new and improved, there's a very nice little dining area beside the bridge now, and they've added another slide for the kiddies. They also have bingo at the Snack Shack every Tuesday and Thursday at 5pm (I'd suggest getting there early to avoid the rush traffic of little old ladies who are fiercely determined to get the best seats). They usually have a small cash prize (between $5-20) for each game, plus coupons for a free ride on the surf bike or a free haircut or something. I see some complaints here about how strict the rules are, and in defense of the lifeguards and management, I think they're good rules to have. It's sort of in the job description of a lifeguard at any pool or lake to yell at kids who are running (in this case, I'd hate to see a kid running on the Rock and face-planting on the hard stone surface... better safe than horribly sorry/facing a lawsuit). As for the food, it's the biggest reason the lake and beach stay so clean. If some kid spilled their blueberry sno-cone all over the sand, you can be sure the beach wouldn't look quite so pretty. Anyhow, I'd highly recommend the Lake to anyone staying in Twain Harte, if you can find a way in (they're strict as ever with who they allow in). It's a beautiful place and more relaxing than any swimming pool you could find. read more

I've been going to this lake for 42 years now and its not changed much over the years. Theres a few upgrades that are nice, such as a paved walk way which I think would make it easier for those in a wheel chair to move about. The snack area has expanded over time, and the rock has in its own way changed, apparently by geological forces, and now has a new band of granite coloring like a stripe across it. Very nice lake overall. read more

Nostalgic. Thanks Grandee and Papa. Everyday is indeed a winding road. .......... ...... .... ... .. . ..

You have to eat/drink in the parking lot, around a chain link fence. The parking lot is also on a Main Street which means cars pass as your children try to eat their sandwiches. I get that they're trying to make it nice and clean, but it has the opposite effect of making it seem trashy. Who wants to eat behind a chain link fence in a parking lot? Pine Crest Lake is beautiful and clean - much nicer and worth the extra drive. read more

I've been coming here since I was a kid. Always brings back great memories. Here is a link to a video about Twain Harte Lake on youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LEV3UtgFQbs You need a membership to enter, or know someone who does - it's a private lake. If you rent a cabin in Twain Harte, many come with access to the lake. There is a snack shack for lunch and maybe a snack (sno cones!) in the afternoon. Lifeguards everywhere, so very safe. Excellent for kids - nice sandy beach, and two diving boards for the older kids. Even rafts in the middle of the lake to swim to. Just a great, mellow place to bring the family to swim and build sand castles. In the Summer, it is the 'Heart" in "Twain Harte". read more