Pinecrest, California · Alpine County · Campground
Overview Lodgepole Group Campground is located just two miles west of Lake Alpine in northern California. The campground affords breathtaking views of the surrounding Stanislaus National Forest. Campground may open earlier and close later on a first come first serve basis as weather (snow level) allows. This informatio…
Overview Lodgepole Group Campground is located just two miles west of Lake Alpine in northern California. The campground affords breathtaking views of the surrounding Stanislaus National Forest. Campground may open earlier and close later on a first come first serve basis as weather (snow level) allows. This information will be posted on this page as soon as it becomes available. The current dates for reservations have historically allowed for comfortable camping, but please take into consideration the high alpine location when making a reservation. It is possible to have snow, rain, mud, and overall cold/wet conditions any time of year. Recreation Lake Alpine provides a wide variety of recreation opportunities. Hike, bike, or ride a horse on Bear Valley, an accessible trail that winds along the lakeshore to the community of Bear Valley. It connects with the historic Emigrant Trail, the route pioneers once traveled via covered wagon to settle in California. Interpretive programs are offered by Forest Service rangers during the summer months.Facilities Campsites with room for up to 6 people, 3 tents, and 2 vehicles per campsite. Picnic tables, campfire rings, toilets are available. Hot showers and laundromat available at nearby Lake Alpine Lodge. No electricity or hook-ups. Pets are welcome. Firewood, camping and fishing supplies, food, and apparel is available in the general store at Lake Alpine Lodge. Natural Features Lodgepole Campground is situated on a large, flat plain, not far from a creek. It sits at an elevation of 7,290 feet, within the Stanislaus National Forest in the central Sierra Nevada Mountains. The forest lies between Lake Tahoe and Yosemite and boasts gorgeous views of snow-capped peaks and California's Great Central Valley. A wide variety of wildlife makes its home in the area, including marmots, squirrels, coyotes, deer and many birds. Nearby Attractions A restaurant, bar, general store, and boat rentals can be found at nearby Lake Alpine Lodge.
Photos
LAKE ALPINE - LODGEPOLE GROUPWell water pump — Dennis MooreLAKE ALPINE - LODGEPOLE GROUPVault toilet — Dennis MooreCampground map — Dennis MooreLAKE ALPINE - LODGEPOLE GROUPLAKE ALPINE - LODGEPOLE GROUPLAKE ALPINE - LODGEPOLE GROUPLAKE ALPINE - LODGEPOLE GROUP
How to Get There
From Angel Camp, drive 50 miles east on Highway 4.
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to (Lake Alpine) Lodgepole Campground
Heading to (Lake Alpine) Lodgepole Campground? A few things to know before you go:
Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for (Lake Alpine) Lodgepole Campground?
No central reservation system listed for (Lake Alpine) Lodgepole Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232343) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How many campsites are at (Lake Alpine) Lodgepole Campground?
(Lake Alpine) Lodgepole Campground has 20 campsites. Site amenities (hookups, vehicle limits, ADA access) vary — see the individual campsite pages for details.
How do I get to (Lake Alpine) Lodgepole Campground?
From Angel Camp, drive 50 miles east on Highway 4.
How do I contact (Lake Alpine) Lodgepole Campground?
You can reach the park at phone: 209-753-6350 or email: [email protected].
