Lake Alpine Camping
Lake Alpine (shown above) is 60 miles east of Angels Camp on Highway 4. The lake has 180 surface acres and an average depth of about 40 feet. Boats are limited to 10 MPH. Lake Alpine is popular for fishing, hiking, swimming, and boating. Hikers can make the 4-mile trip around the lake and include a side-trip to the summit of Inspiration Point overlooking the lake. At the lake there is a free public launch ramp and parking. Lake Alpine Lodge includes cabin rentals, a store, bar, restaurant, and boat rentals.
Camping Overview
All of the campgrounds at Lake Alpine now take reservations. Interpretive Programs are offered by Forest Service rangers during the summer months. Lodgepole Overflow camping area is opened when the campsites at Lake Alpine are filled to capacity ($12). Lodgepole is located 1.5 miles west of the lake. Most of the campgrounds at Lake Alpine open around mid-June and close at the end of September, while Lake Alpine Campground usually stays open until mid-October.
Lake Alpine Campground
The Lake Alpine campground is spread along the shores of the lake, just west of the boat launch ramp. the campground is usually open from mid-June until mid-October. At an elevation of 7,300 feet it enjoys mild summer weather.
Directions: Lake Alpine is about 50 miles east of Angels Camp on Highway 4.
Fees: $27 per night
Lake Alpine Campground Reservations
Lake Alpine Campground Amenities:
- 25 Campsites for tents and RVs
- Piped water, flush toilets
- Picnic tables, fire rings
Silver Valley Campground
The Silver Valley Campground is at an elevation of 7,400 feet and is located at the east end of Lake Alpine. Mild summer temperatures make it a popular summer destination for campers, hikers, boaters, anglers, and swimmers.
Directions: Lake Alpine is about 60 miles east of Angels Camp on Highway 4. At the east end of the lake turn right onto the side road just east of Chickaree Picnic Area and follow the road around to the campground.
Fees: $27 per night
Silver Valley Campground Reservations
Silver Valley Campground Amenities:
- 21 Campsites for tents and RVs
- Piped water, flush toilets
- Picnic tables, fire rings
Pine Marten Campground
The Pine Marten Campground is at an elevation of 7,400 feet and is located at the east end of Lake Alpine. Mild summer temperatures make it a popular summer destination for campers, hikers, boaters, anglers, and swimmers.
Directions: Lake Alpine is about 60 miles east of Angels Camp on Highway 4. At the east end of the lake turn right onto the side road just east of Chickaree Picnic Area and follow the road around to the campground.
Fees: $27 per night
Pine Marten Campground Reservations
Pine Marten Campground Amenities:
- 32 Campsites for tents and RVs
- Piped water, flush toilets
- Picnic tables, fire rings
Silvertip Campground
Silvertip Campground is less than a mile west of the lake along Highway 4. A trail leads from the campground down to the lake.
Directions: From Arnold drive east on Highway 4 toward Lake Alpine. About a tenth of a mile past the turnoff to Mt. Reba Ski Area, watch for the sign for Silvertip Campground.
Fees: $27 per night
Silvertip Campground Reservations
Silvertip Campground Amenities:
- 23 Campsites for tents and RVs
- No water, flush toilets
- Picnic tables, fire rings
Backpackers Campground
The Backpackers Campground is intended for people planning to set out the next morning on a backpack trip. It is a primitive, walk-in campground at the east end of the lake. No RVs are allowed. There is a one-night limit at the campground.
Directions: Take Highway 4 to east shore of Lake Alpine. Turn south on the road just east of Chickaree Picnic Area. The Backpackers Campground is located half way between Highway 4 and Pine Marten Campground.
Fees: $27 per night
Reservations: None
Backpackers Campground Amenities:
- 8 Campsites for tents
- No water, flush toilets
- Picnic tables, fire rings
