Established as mining camps in 1852, Groveland and the nearby town of Big Oak Flat were once thriving California Gold Rush towns. After the decline in gold production, the historic town of Groveland made its mark offering hospitality to weary travelers coming to and from Yosemite National Park. Located only 26 miles from the northern entrance to the Park on Highway 120, today Groveland is the most convenient gateway for tourists coming from the San Francisco Bay Area, Sacramento, Stockton, or Modesto.

Although Groveland boasts a population of approximately 3,000 full-time residents, this number often triples during the summer months. Visitors are attracted to both the magnificent beauty of our area, as well as the many recreational opportunities offered nearby. Our quiet hilltop community has managed to retain much of its old west charm, and still boasts the oldest continuously operating saloon in California. Travelers enjoy playing golf at Pine Mountain Lake’s 18-hole golf course, taking in the sun at one of the numerous recreational lakes nearby, fishing, hiking, and of course sightseeing.