(Lake Alpine) Silver Tip Campground
4.2771 reviewsPO Box 2003, Carson City, NV, 89702, USA
Quick Facts
7,400 ftPrice
$32/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
22 campsites
Season
Reservable season is...
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Allowed
RV FriendlyShowers
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
7,400 ftPrice
$32/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
22 campsites
Season
Reservable season is...
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Allowed
RV FriendlyShowers
Get Directions(Lake Alpine) Silver Tip Campground
$32.00 - $32.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Facility rates for peak season are $32 per night for standard non-electric and RV non-electric sites. Rates do not include discounts, taxes, or...
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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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$32.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider209-753-6350
What Campers Say
4.27
Satisfactory
Based on 71 reviews
30 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewscleanspaciouslake
"User reviews for Silvertip Campground highlight its natural beauty, spacious campsites, and proximity to Lake Alpine. However, common concerns include the lack of bear-proof food lockers, issues with sloped or narrow sites for RVs, and the perception of overly strict or inconsistent enforcement of rules by some hosts."
Fees & Passes at (Lake Alpine) Silver Tip Campground
$32/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum stay of 14 nights during a visit or within rolling 60 days.
Cancellation: Cancellations can be made ahead of arrival with a $10 fee. Late cancellations for individual campsit...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official U.S. Forest Service website.
Best Time to Camp at (Lake Alpine) Silver Tip Campground
At 7,400 feet, Silvertip's alpine climate keeps even seasoned campers on their toes. Mountain weather here writes its own rules—surprise snowflakes might dust your morning coffee in June, afternoon thunderstorms can roll through on the clearest days, and crisp nights remind you to pack that extra layer even in summer. The peak season brings those coveted mild days perfect for hiking and lakeside lounging, but wise visitors come prepared for nature's mood swings with gear for all conditions.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: May 30, 2025 - October 5, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Reservable season is from May 30 to October 5, 2025.
- Current Alerts: No specific alerts are currently active.
About (Lake Alpine) Silver Tip Campground
Nestled less than a mile from the sparkling waters of Lake Alpine, Silvertip Campground beckons adventurers into the heart of Stanislaus National Forest's high country. This alpine sanctuary combines the raw beauty of mountain wilderness with essential camping comforts—each site thoughtfully equipped with picnic tables and campfire rings where stories and s'mores come to life under starlit skies. While the campground welcomes tents, families, and smaller RVs seeking an authentic mountain experience, its rustic charm means leaving modern hookups behind in favor of connecting with nature's grandeur.
Silvertip Campground accommodates tent camping and RVs, though it lacks modern RV hookups. Sites are also suitable for small groups.
Historical SignificanceSilvertip Campground sits within the storied Stanislaus National Forest, a protected wilderness that has shaped California's conservation legacy for generations. These ancient forests have witnessed the passage of Native peoples, gold rush pioneers, and countless nature enthusiasts who've found solace among the towering pines and granite peaks that define this remarkable landscape.
Weather and SeasonsAt 7,400 feet, Silvertip's alpine climate keeps even seasoned campers on their toes. Mountain weather here writes its own rules—surprise snowflakes might dust your morning coffee in June, afternoon thunderstorms can roll through on the clearest days, and crisp nights remind you to pack that extra layer even in summer. The peak season brings those coveted mild days perfect for hiking and lakeside lounging, but wise visitors come prepared for nature's mood swings with gear for all conditions.
ElevationPerched at 7,400 feet above sea level, Silvertip delivers an authentic high-altitude camping experience where the air feels crisp and clean, the stars shine brilliantly close, and every breath reminds you that you've truly escaped to the mountains. This elevation places you in the sweet spot of alpine adventure—high enough to feel the mountain magic, yet accessible enough for most visitors to enjoy comfortably with proper preparation.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to panoramic views of Lake Alpine's crystalline waters framed by towering conifers and dramatic granite formations. This alpine wonderland at 7,400 feet serves as nature's amphitheater, where ancient forests provide both shelter and spectacle. Keep your camera ready—black bears might lumber through the underbrush, yellow-bellied marmots whistle warnings from sun-warmed rocks, and golden eagles soar overhead, while the forest floor bustles with the antics of squirrels and chipmunks darting between the pines.
Geological RegionPositioned in a geological sweet spot between the iconic landscapes of Lake Tahoe and Yosemite, Silvertip occupies a dramatic slice of Sierra Nevada high country at 7,400 feet. This alpine ecosystem thrives where ancient granite meets evergreen forest, creating diverse habitats for an impressive cast of wildlife characters—from the smallest chipmunks to magnificent black bears, from stealthy coyotes to soaring eagles. The surrounding Stanislaus National Forest showcases nature's artistry through its tapestry of meadows, forests, and peaks, offering visitors a front-row seat to one of California's most biodiverse mountain regions.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible parking and paved pathways are available, but accessibility for restrooms and other facilities is not explicitly detailed.
Sites SizeMost campsites are described as spacious; some can accommodate up to 6 people, 3 tents, and 2 vehicles.
Sites PrivacyThe level of privacy varies by site, with many users mentioning spacious setups providing some separation between sites.
Total Campsites22 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #1 and #15+ are more level for tent campers. Sites on the southwest (high) side and outer edges are generally quieter and more scenic.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2PM on the scheduled arrival day.
Check-out
12 PM on departure day.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights during a visit or within rolling 60 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 6 people, 3 tents, and 2 vehicles per campsite.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are spaced apart with spacious layouts. Driveways may be narrow and sloped.
Open and Closed SeasonReservable season is from May 30 to October 5, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve availability is minimal and often limited to one or two days.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made ahead of arrival with a $10 fee. Late cancellations for individual campsites incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's use fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Silvertip Campground offers access to a wide range of activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, boating, kayaking, paddle-boarding, swimming, and wildlife viewing. The proximity to Lake Alpine makes water-based activities particularly popular.
Hiking
There are hiking trails leading directly from the campground to Lake Alpine. One user described enjoying the "very nice, easy mile-long trail to Lake Alpine."Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available in Lake Alpine. One camper expressed hope for more frequent trout stocking in the lake.Swimming
Swimming is available at Lake Alpine, and the nearby shoreline offers an ideal spot for this activity.Biking
Cyclists can enjoy paved and easy trails, including those leading to the east shore of Lake Alpine.Boating
Boating on Lake Alpine is a popular activity, with rentals available at the nearby lodge. Boats have a 10 MPH speed limit on the lake.Wildlife viewing
The area is home to wildlife such as squirrels, chipmunks, deer, marmots, coyotes, bears, and various bird species.Cultural and Educational Programs
During the summer months, Forest Service rangers offer interpretive programs, providing educational insights about the area.Winter Activities
The campground is at a high alpine location, and snow may occur during the colder months, allowing for potential winter recreation.Water Sports
Kayaking and paddleboarding are available on Lake Alpine, with opportunities for canoeing as well.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated campfire rings. Firewood must be purchased locally.
- Quiet hours are officially enforced, but reviews suggest enforcement is inconsistent.
Hazards
General hazardsFrequent bear activity necessitates storing food securely in vehicles. Narrow roads and boulders pose challenges for RVs.
Active alertsNo specific alerts are currently active.
Weather at (Lake Alpine) Silver Tip Campground
38
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 41%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.9 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Emergency services location is unspecified.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 30, 2025 - October 5, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are available, but recycling facilities are not mentioned; users are encouraged to store trash in bear-proof containers.
Proximity to water featuresLess than a mile from Lake Alpine with nearby hiking trails leading to the lake.
Common complaintsLack of bear boxes cited in multiple reviews. RV usability is challenging due to narrow roads and boulders. Camp hosts have received mixed reviews, with some campers feeling harassed.
HostHosts are described variably in reviews. Dennis, a host mentioned by name, is frequently praised for attentiveness and friendliness.
Campground Map
PO Box 2003, Carson City, NV, 89702, USA
Driving directionsFrom Angel's Camp, drive east on Highway 4 toward Lake Alpine. About 1/10th mile past Bear Valley Ski Resort turn-off, watch for the sign for Silvertip Campground. The campground is 2/3 of a mile west of Lake Alpine on Highway 4.
The campground is accessible via Highway 4. Roads include narrow paths, tight turns, and inconvenient boulders and trees, making it difficult for modern RVs. Driveways are asphalt and may not be level.Nearby supplies
Firewood, camping supplies, and groceries can be found at the Lake Alpine Lodge general store.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.3
71 reviews
(Lake Alpine) Silver Tip Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Silvertip Campground highlight its natural beauty, spacious campsites, and proximity to Lake Alpine. However, common concerns include the lack of bear-proof food lockers, issues with sloped or narrow sites for RVs, and the perception of overly strict or inconsistent enforcement of rules by some hosts.
Review Summaries
Based on 71 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users praised the clean facilities, helpful camp hosts, spacious campsites, and the serene and picturesque environment. Statements such as "The campground is small and intimate, boasting...
Based on 71 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Criticisms include the absence of bear boxes despite frequent bear activity, narrow and uneven RV parking spaces, and strict enforcement of rules perceived as excessive by some visitors.
Based on 71 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own bear-proof food storage or plan to store food in your vehicle. Check the size and condition of your site if you're bringing an RV. Visit in the summer months for ranger-led educational...
Based on 71 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and summer are popular due to warmer weather and ranger programs. However, snow and rain can occur even in warmer months, impacting conditions.
Based on 71 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Great campground with very spacious sites. The host was very friendly and informative." - Aaron G. "The campground was very clean and quiet. It was so nice to not have people partying all night...
Based on 71 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #1 and #15 are noted as having level ground, while sites #2 and #18 are described as sloped. Sites on the outer edge or southwest high side are preferred by some users.
Based on 71 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews from users with disabilities were identified.
Based on 71 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome, but they must be kept on a leash and attended at all times. Several users appreciated the pet-friendly policy.
Based on 71 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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