Pit Stop Beach - Pilot Hill, CA
Pit Stop Beach – Dog Park in Pilot Hill, California
Pit Stop Beach is a hidden gem for dog lovers looking for a unique experience in Pilot Hill, California. Located within Cronan Ranch Regional Trails Park, this secluded dog-friendly spot offers a large, well-maintained fenced area with distinct zones for both large and small dogs. The park is surrounded by beautiful oak woodlands, providing plenty of shade and a tranquil setting. Pet-friendly trails wind through the scenic South Fork of the American River canyon, making it a top destination for dog-friendly hiking.
Amenities at Pit Stop Beach include shaded picnic tables, an actual bathroom, plenty of seating, drinking water for both people and their pets, and a supply of poop bags and tools to keep the area clean. Separate spaces for small and large dogs, abundant shade, and nearby hiking trails make it a great rest stop for travelers between Sacramento and Tahoe. The park is also near a peaceful, sandy stretch of beach and a creek, perfect for letting dogs play and swim in a natural setting.
FAQ
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Yes, dogs are allowed off-leash in the designated areas.
- Is there a fenced area for dogs? Yes, the dog park features a well-maintained fence with separate areas for small and large dogs.
- Is there a separate area for small and large dogs? Yes, there are dedicated spaces for both small and large dogs.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, the park is shaded by large oak trees, and there is a picnic table area with misters in warmer months.
- Are poop bags or waste stations provided? Yes, poop bags and pick-up tools are available on-site.
- Are water fountains or bowls for dogs? Yes, adequate water is available for dogs and people.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Yes, there is plenty of seating and picnic tables available.
- Are restrooms available for owners? Yes, there is an actual bathroom at the park.
- Is there parking? Yes, parking is free at Cronan Ranch trailhead, but camping is prohibited.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, there are multiple pet-friendly trails featuring beautiful canyon and river views.
- Is there a swimming area or pond for dogs? Yes, there is creek access and a sandy beach where dogs can swim.
- Is the park regularly cleaned and maintained? Yes, the park is well maintained and dog owners help keep it clean.
- How busy does the park get on weekends? The park is typically secluded, especially if you hike or cycle in, so it’s rarely crowded.
Reviews
This is a nice place to stop and relax if you were doing the gorge run of the south Fork of the American River. It comes immediately before you enter the gorge a few minutes before you get to fowlers rock
This is a nice place to stop and relax if you were doing the gorge run of the south Fork of the American River. It comes immediately before you enter the gorge a few minutes before you get to fowlers rock
IMPORTANT – Access via Cronan Ranch Regional Trails Park.
Went to check this place out on a lark and Google Maps tried to send me via Salmon Falls and a road called Equestrian Way. I found that is a private road that leads to Sweetwater Ranch with a lot of “Private Keep Out” Signs.
If you want to get here, and I do recommend it, you’ll want to go to Cronan Ranch Regional Trails Park, it’s a fairly easy hike on well maintained dirt roads. Dog owners and phobics be aware that lots of folks let their dogs off leash. Parking is free but camping here appears to be prohibited.
IMPORTANT – Access via Cronan Ranch Regional Trails Park.
Went to check this place out on a lark and Google Maps tried to send me via Salmon Falls and a road called Equestrian Way. I found that is a private road that leads to Sweetwater Ranch with a lot of “Private Keep Out” Signs.
If you want to get here, and I do recommend it, you’ll want to go to Cronan Ranch Regional Trails Park, it’s a fairly easy hike on well maintained dirt roads. Dog owners and phobics be aware that lots of folks let their dogs off leash. Parking is free but camping here appears to be prohibited.
Google maps shows accessibility from a road in Placerville called Hidden Lake. Not only is the road mislabeled, but you cannot access Pit Stop from that road. There is a locked gate on private property, AND you would be on the wrong side of the river.
Google maps shows accessibility from a road in Placerville called Hidden Lake. Not only is the road mislabeled, but you cannot access Pit Stop from that road. There is a locked gate on private property, AND you would be on the wrong side of the river.
An out of the way little beach you’ll have all to yourself if you hike/cycle/ride in, with perfect sand, cool waters and a gorgeous, wild canyon view. Picnic table and an actual bathroom too. You may see rafts or kayakers shoot by if it’s whitewater season. Sits at the bottom of a long-ago burned ridge that is still recovering. The hike in and out down the valley or along West Ridge is a treat too.
An out of the way little beach you’ll have all to yourself if you hike/cycle/ride in, with perfect sand, cool waters and a gorgeous, wild canyon view. Picnic table and an actual bathroom too. You may see rafts or kayakers shoot by if it’s whitewater season. Sits at the bottom of a long-ago burned ridge that is still recovering. The hike in and out down the valley or along West Ridge is a treat too.
Awesome, secluded little beach with slow water and LOTS of sandy beach, big old oaks shade part of the beach, one of our favorite places to go, hardly ever see anyone else there. I think it’s the most beautiful place on Cronin Ranch.
Awesome, secluded little beach with slow water and LOTS of sandy beach, big old oaks shade part of the beach, one of our favorite places to go, hardly ever see anyone else there. I think it’s the most beautiful place on Cronin Ranch.