(Lake Alpine) Silver Valley Campground

4.15

87 reviews

PO Box 2003, Carson City, NV, USA, 89702

Scenic ViewsStargazingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

7,400 ft

Price

$32/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

22 campsites

Season

Open for reservation...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens US Forest Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

7,400 ft

Price

$32/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

22 campsites

Season

Open for reservation...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens US Forest Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

(Lake Alpine) Silver Valley Campground

$32.00 - $32.00 / night

Campsite Fees

During the peak season (June 13, 2025 - October 05, 2025), facility rates are $32 per night for standard non-electric and RV non-electric sites.

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

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

209-753-6350

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What Campers Say

4.15

Satisfactory

Based on 87 reviews

21 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsquietcleanlake

"Overall, Silver Valley Campground receives positive reviews for its natural beauty, cleanliness, and the dedication of its camp hosts. However, issues such as uneven terrain, tight camping spots for RVs, and occasional noise disturbances have been noted."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

PO Box 2003, Carson City, NV, USA, 89702

(Lake Alpine) Silver Valley Campground

PO Box 2003, Carson City, NV, USA, 89702

Driving directionsSilver Valley is about 60 miles east of Angel's Camp on Highway 4 toward Lake Alpine. At the east end of the lake, turn onto the side road just east of Chickaree Picnic Area and follow the road around to Silver Valley Campground.

The campground is accessible via paved roads, but users should note that the roads are narrow with tight turns and large boulders. These conditions may pose challenges for large RVs.

Nearby places

Carson City (approximately 140 miles), Angels Camp (approximately 60 miles), Lake Tahoe (approximately 80 miles), Yosemite National Park (approximately 50 miles).

Nearby supplies

Supplies are available at the general store within Lake Alpine Lodge, including food, camping and fishing gear, and firewood. Fuel and other essential supplies may be found in Angels Camp or Carson City.

Best Time to Camp at (Lake Alpine) Silver Valley Campground

At this elevation, Mother Nature writes her own rules. Summer afternoons might bring sudden thunderstorms that electrify the alpine air, while spring and fall mornings often greet campers with frost-kissed meadows and crisp mountain breezes. Early season visitors may discover lingering snow patches transforming trails into muddy adventures, while late-season campers witness the first dustings of winter painting the peaks white. Come prepared for dramatic temperature swings – where sun-drenched afternoons can quickly give way to jacket-weather evenings under star-filled skies.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 11% in NV

Peak season with full range of activities; most popular season per reviews.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.5 / 5

Quieter experience with colder mornings; trails still accessible but weather cools.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Spring is quieter but can be cold with frost; access may be variable depending on snowmelt.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground is seasonally closed/limited in winter due to snow and access restrictions.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: June 13, 2025 - October 05, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open for reservations from June 13, 2025, to October 05, 2025. May open earlier or close later based on weather conditions.
Current Alerts: None explicitly listed but visitors are warned of possible snow and mud during early and late-season camping.

About (Lake Alpine) Silver Valley Campground

Nestled at 7,400 feet in the heart of the Sierra Nevada, Silver Valley Campground beckons adventurers to experience the raw beauty of California's high country. This alpine sanctuary sits at the eastern shores of Lake Alpine, where towering old-growth conifers frame crystalline waters and endless mountain vistas. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, exploring hidden trails through ancient forests, or paddling across mirror-smooth waters as eagles soar overhead, Silver Valley offers an authentic wilderness escape within the magnificent Stanislaus National Forest.

Silver Valley Campground accommodates a range of camping styles, including tent and RV camping. The rugged terrain and absence of modern RV park amenities make it more suited to smaller RVs and tents.

Historical SignificanceThe Stanislaus National Forest stands as a testament to America's conservation legacy, protecting these pristine wilderness areas for generations of nature lovers. Just a short distance away, the historic Lake Alpine Lodge has welcomed travelers since the early days of Sierra tourism, serving as both a cultural landmark and gathering place where stories of mountain adventures have been shared for decades. This region preserves not just natural wonders, but also the enduring spirit of wilderness exploration that has drawn visitors to these peaks for over a century.

Weather and SeasonsAt this elevation, Mother Nature writes her own rules. Summer afternoons might bring sudden thunderstorms that electrify the alpine air, while spring and fall mornings often greet campers with frost-kissed meadows and crisp mountain breezes. Early season visitors may discover lingering snow patches transforming trails into muddy adventures, while late-season campers witness the first dustings of winter painting the peaks white. Come prepared for dramatic temperature swings – where sun-drenched afternoons can quickly give way to jacket-weather evenings under star-filled skies.

ElevationPerched at an impressive 7,400 feet above sea level, Silver Valley Campground offers a true high-altitude experience where the air is crisp, the stars shine brighter, and every breath reminds you that you've entered the realm of the Sierra Nevada's upper reaches. This elevation brings both rewards and challenges – spectacular panoramic views and cooler temperatures that provide relief from valley heat, but also the need to pack layers and prepare for rapidly changing mountain weather that can shift from sunshine to storms in minutes.

Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where ancient giants – centuries-old pines and firs – stand sentinel over your campsite, their massive trunks telling stories of countless seasons. The campground's prime location at Lake Alpine's eastern edge means you're never far from water views that shift from dawn's golden glow to sunset's alpenglow spectacle. Wildlife thrives here, from curious chipmunks darting between granite boulders to majestic deer grazing in twilight meadows. Every direction offers Instagram-worthy vistas, whether it's the lake reflecting snow-capped peaks or wildflower meadows bursting with seasonal color.

Geological RegionSilver Valley Campground occupies a geological sweet spot in California's Sierra Nevada, strategically positioned between two of America's most iconic destinations – Lake Tahoe to the north and Yosemite to the south. This high alpine terrain within Stanislaus National Forest showcases the dramatic results of ancient glacial carving, where ice age forces sculpted the landscape into today's breathtaking tapestry of granite peaks, pristine lakes, and dense coniferous forests. The old-growth trees surrounding the campground stand as living monuments to the region's ecological richness, while Lake Alpine itself fills a natural basin carved by glaciers millennia ago.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in is by 2 PM, but information about specific hours is unclear.

Check-out

Check-out is by 12 PM.

Stay Limit

Maximum of 14 nights during a visit, and up to 14 nights within rolling 60 days.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Campsites can accommodate up to 6 people, 2 tents, and 2 vehicles.

Groups

Null

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites are arranged in loops, with varying levels of proximity to Lake Alpine. Some sites are uneven while others are flat.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov website or app.

Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability is noted to occur outside reservation dates but specific details are unclear regarding the number of sites available for walk-ups.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before arrival. Changes to dates incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations subtract the first night's fee along with the cancellation fee. No-show penalties include forfeiting the first night's fee and incurring a $20 no-show fee.

AccessibilityThe campground has paved pathways and accessible parking. However, the steep and uneven terrain in certain areas may pose challenges for individuals with mobility impairments.

Site SizeSites can accommodate up to 6 people, 2 tents, and 2 vehicles. Some sites, such as #7 and #8, have been noted for uneven ground.

PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. Interior sites are generally larger and more secluded, while exterior sites are closer to one another.

Total Campsites22 campsites

Recommended SitesSites near the lake may offer better views but are tighter in space. Even-numbered sites are on uneven terrain and may require carrying gear uphill.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Activities you can enjoy

Silver Valley Campground offers diverse recreational opportunities, leveraging its proximity to Lake Alpine. Activities include hiking, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, biking, boating, swimming, and wildlife viewing. Seasonal interpretive programs led by Forest Service rangers further enrich visitors' experiences.

HikingThe campground provides access to numerous trails, including routes to Duck Lake, Inspiration Point, and a 4-5 mile trail around Lake Alpine. Trails range from easy to challenging and offer scenic views.

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.

FishingLake Alpine and nearby Duck Lake offer fishing opportunities, with trout commonly caught from the shore.

SwimmingLake Alpine features designated swimming areas. However, swimmers should be cautious of cold water temperatures, especially early in the season.

BikingBiking trails are available in the Lake Alpine area, offering varying levels of difficulty.

BoatingBoating activities include kayaking and paddleboarding, with rentals available at Lake Alpine Lodge. Boats are restricted to a 10 MPH speed limit on the lake.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsUsers are warned about bears, uneven campsite slopes requiring leveling blocks, and challenges for larger RVs due to tight turns and narrow roads.

Active AlertsNone explicitly listed but visitors are warned of possible snow and mud during early and late-season camping.

Food Storage RequiredBear-proof lockers are available at each site. They can accommodate two standard-size coolers.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed within designated fire rings. Firewood can be purchased at Lake Alpine Lodge.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Generator use is restricted between 8 AM and 8 PM, limited to 2 hours per day.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services closest to the campground include a ranger station within Stanislaus National Forest and local hospitals in Carson City.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not located within the campground. Campers have to take their waste to facilities near Lake Alpine.

Water FeaturesLake Alpine is within walking distance, providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife watching.

Camp HostThe host Angel is frequently praised for being helpful, maintaining clean facilities, and helping resolve issues like jump-starting vehicles. Reviewers describe him as attentive and friendly.

Weather at (Lake Alpine) Silver Valley Campground

Reviews

4.2

87 reviews

Satisfactory

(Lake Alpine) Silver Valley Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, Silver Valley Campground receives positive reviews for its natural beauty, cleanliness, and the dedication of its camp hosts. However, issues such as uneven terrain, tight camping spots for RVs, and occasional noise disturbances have been noted.

Review Summaries

Based on 87 reviews

What Campers Love

- Excellent camp hosts (notably Angel) who are helpful, friendly, and maintain cleanliness. - Proximity to Lake Alpine and associated recreational activities. - Clean vault toilets and regularly...

Based on 87 reviews

Common Concerns

- Close proximity of campsites in certain areas. - Lack of modern amenities like hookups for RVs. - Inconsistent cell phone reception. - Some sites are uneven and difficult to maneuver into for...

Based on 87 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

- Bring leveling equipment if camping with an RV. - Use bear boxes to secure food and avoid wildlife disturbances. - Be prepared for cold weather even in summer months; extra blankets are...

Based on 87 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season due to the range of outdoor activities. Spring and fall offer quieter experiences but may feature colder weather. Winter may bring snow and limit access.

Based on 87 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "Angel was the best camp host we have ever had there. He kept the restrooms spotless and even helped someone start their car with jumper cables." - Lynn B. 2. "Beautiful campground, so peaceful...

Based on 87 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Users have praised specific campsites like #2 for its quiet location and proximity to facilities, and #13 for its spaciousness. Site #7 is noted for uneven ground. Campsites #5 and #10 have received...

Based on 87 reviews

Accessibility Features

The campground features paved pathways and accessible parking, but the steep terrain may pose challenges for some visitors. Vault toilets are regularly cleaned, aiding accessibility.

Based on 87 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash. Users have appreciated the pet-friendly policy while emphasizing the importance of adhering to leash rules to ensure safety in bear territory.

Based on 87 reviews

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