Situated at an impressive elevation of 9,250 feet, Lake George claims the title of being the highest road-accessible lake in Lakes Basin, offering a genuinely peaceful spot for outdoor enthusiasts in Mammoth Lakes. The drive up to get here winds through the Sierra terrain, and once you arrive, you’ll find a compact but well-developed area with picnic tables scattered along the shoreline, several campsites tucked among the trees, and a boat dock for anyone wanting to get out on the water.

While swimming isn’t permitted at most lakes in the Mammoth Lakes Basin (the exception being Horseshoe Lake), there’s still plenty to do with your dog. The shoreline itself is accessible for walks, and you can sit at one of the picnic areas and just take in the alpine environment. The water is incredibly clear—you’ll see why people bring boats here even if swimming isn’t an option. If you’re planning to camp, the tree-shaded sites feel private enough that your dog can move around comfortably, and the elevation means cooler nights even in summer.

The surrounding trails offer opportunities ranging from easy shoreline strolls to more serious hikes into the backcountry. The scenery throughout—rocky peaks, whitebark pines, and that brilliant alpine light—makes this worth the drive from Mammoth town. You’ll notice the air is thinner up here, so take it easy on the first hike if your dog isn’t acclimated to elevation yet.

The lake draws fewer crowds than the lower elevation spots in the basin, which is part of its appeal. Bring water for your dog, sunscreen for yourself, and arrive early on weekends if you want a good parking spot. The boat dock area gives you a sense of how much activity happens here, so the lake clearly has its fans among people who want to combine water access with mountain scenery.