There are local ranger district offices in Groveland, Hathaway Pines, and Pinecrest.

[1] The proximity of the Stanislaus National Forest to the San Francisco Bay Area makes it a popular recreation destination.

The volcanic and granite formations in the wilderness exist alongside heavy cattle grazing.

Whitewater rafting and kayaking can be found in the wild and scenic Tuolumne River and Cherry Creek.

Two ski resorts, Dodge Ridge and Bear Valley, operate here under a special use permit.