(Lake Alpine) Lodgepole Campground

Star4.02
64 reviews
STANISLAUS
Summer Destination

Quick Facts

7,290 ft

Price

$32 - $120/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

40 campsites

Season

Open for reservation...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens Lake Alpine Lodge site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
(Lake Alpine) Lodgepole Campground
$32.00 - $120.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Nonelectric site is $32 per night during peak season. Group sites charge $120 per night. Fees are not waived for weather changes or wildlife...
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Standard Site Fee$32.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$120.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
209-753-6350Alpinegvcpa@gmail.com
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What Campers Say

4.02

Satisfactory

Based on 64 reviews

14 Google reviews

Most mentioned

shadespaciouslakefriendly

"The campground receives mixed reviews, with some praising its scenic beauty and proximity to Lake Alpine, while others criticize the limited amenities and cleanliness."

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Campground Map

STANISLAUS

(Lake Alpine) Lodgepole Campground

STANISLAUS

Driving directionsFrom Angel Camp, drive 50 miles east on Highway 4.
The entrance road is unmaintained, narrow, and contains tight turns. Not designed for modern RVs. Many boulders and trees complicate navigation.
Nearby places
Bear Valley (approximately 2 miles away).
Nearby supplies
Supplies available at Lake Alpine Lodge (general store) and Bear Valley stores (approximately 2 miles away).

Best Time to Camp at (Lake Alpine) Lodgepole Campground

Experience the dynamic mountain climate where summer days warm to a pleasant 79°F, perfect for hiking and exploration, while evenings cool to a crisp 48°F—ideal for campfire conversations under star-filled skies. Be prepared for nature's full spectrum, as mountain weather can surprise with sudden rain showers or even late-season snow, adding to the adventure and reminding visitors of the raw beauty of high-altitude camping.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.5 / 5
Top 14% in CA

Peak season (Jun 27–Oct 5); warm days (~79°F), full access to trails, lake activities and programs.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.5 / 5

Open into early Oct with cooler temps and good views; season short and weather-dependent.

Spring(Mar-May)
2.5 / 5

Spring openings vary with snowmelt; access and facilities may be limited until late season.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Snowy winter conditions limit access; campground typically closed in winter months.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: June 27 to October 5.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open for reservations from June 27 to October 5 (peak season). May open earlier or close later depending on weather.
  • Current Alerts: No fire pits allowed in 2022 due to fire risk. Some reports of unclean sites and garbage smell.

About (Lake Alpine) Lodgepole Campground

Tucked away in the heart of Stanislaus National Forest, Lodgepole Campground welcomes adventurers seeking an authentic mountain escape. Each spacious site accommodates up to six people and offers breathtaking scenic vistas, with the crystalline waters of Lake Alpine just moments away. Here, towering lodgepole pines create a natural cathedral where families and friends gather to reconnect with nature and each other.
Lodgepole Campground offers standard campsites for tent and RV campers, as well as group camping options.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Guests who do not arrive by 2 PM the day after scheduled arrival are considered no-shows.
Check-out
Check-out time is not explicitly listed.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay 14 nights during rolling 60-day period.

Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations

Activities you can enjoy

The campground and nearby Lake Alpine offer a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and boating. Interpretive programs run during summer months.
HikingHikers can explore trails like the Bear Valley Trail along the lakeshore, which connects to the historic Emigrant Trail.
ClimbingClimbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.
FishingFishing is popular at Lake Alpine, with abundant fish visible in the waters. Specific fish types are not mentioned.
SwimmingSwimming is possible at Lake Alpine, which is just a short drive from the campground.
BikingBiking trails, including easy terrain along the lakeshore, are available.
BoatingBoating options include paddleboards, canoes, kayaks, pedal boats, and motorboats, which can be rented at Lake Alpine Lodge.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBears are frequently encountered; food must be stored in vehicles. Cold weather poses risks.
Active AlertsNo fire pits allowed in 2022 due to fire risk. Some reports of unclean sites and garbage smell.

Weather at (Lake Alpine) Lodgepole Campground

Reviews

4.0
64 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
(Lake Alpine) Lodgepole Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground receives mixed reviews, with some praising its scenic beauty and proximity to Lake Alpine, while others criticize the limited amenities and cleanliness.
Review Summaries
Based on 64 reviews

What Campers Love

Users highlight the campground's spacious and shaded sites, proximity to Lake Alpine, and the friendly camp hosts. Wildlife sightings, including bears, added excitement for some campers.
Based on 64 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the lack of bear boxes, cleanliness issues, and porta-potties. Several reviewers mentioned campground staff as a source of frustration.
Based on 64 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

1. Store food securely in vehicles due to the lack of bear boxes. 2. Plan for chilly nights and bring warm clothing. 3. Arrive early for day-use parking at Lake Alpine. 4. Book during summer for...
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Based on 64 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most favorable season, offering better weather and access to recreational activities. Winter conditions, including snow and cold temperatures, limit usability.
Based on 64 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The lake was beautiful and quiet when we were there. Lots of fish in the water jumping around.' - Didar M. 2. 'The campground is a couple of miles from the lake, so there was little traffic...
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Based on 64 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 2 received mixed feedback; it offers privacy but isn't suited for larger RVs. Site 16 was praised for its proximity to the lake and cleanliness. Group sites were described as spacious but lacked...
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Based on 64 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility feedback is minimal, but the flat terrain is noted as a feature that may benefit visitors with mobility challenges.
Based on 64 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but they must remain leashed. Campers appreciated the pet-friendly policy, noting that dogs should not be left unattended.
Based on 64 reviews

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Last updated January 15, 2026
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(Lake Alpine) Lodgepole Campground