Markleeville, CA

(Lake Alpine) Backpackers

LakesideForestAlpineHikingFishingSwimmingPaddling (kayak / canoe / SUP)Motor-boatingRock climbingOHV / Off-roadingBackpackingWildlife watchingDog-friendlyVault toiletsFire pitPicnic tableRanger / Interpretive programs

Availability

Each day shows how many of this campground’s sites are open.

About this spot

Overview

Backpackers' Campground is located on the East end of Lake Alpine, CA. All sites are walk-in tent sites. Cars cannot be parked in camp, parking is available on the adjacent street.  Backpackers' Campground is located in the Calveras Ranger District, in a timbered setting near several trailheads. Campground may open earlier and close later 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 recreational opportunities: fishing, hiking, biking, kayaking, paddle-boarding, boating, OHV trails, swimming, rock climbing, and wildlife watching. Interpretive programs are offered by Forest Service rangers during the summer months.

Facilities

Campsites with room for up to 6 people, 2 tents, and 2 vehicles per campsite. Picnic tables, campfire rings, vault toilets are available. Hot showers and laundromat available at nearby Lake Alpine Resort. 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

SIlver Valley Campground sits at an elevation of 7,400 feet on the east end of Lake Alpine within the Stanislaus National Forest. The forest lies between Lake Tahoe and Yosemite and boasts gorgeous views.

Nearby Attractions

A restaurant, bar, general store, and boat rentals can be found at nearby Lake Alpine Lodge. The immediate area is suited for forest and wilderness recreation. A short car ride away is Big Trees State Park, Grover Hot Springs, Mercer Caverns, Mountain Adventure Seminars, and the wine country of Calaveras County.

Typical weather

Lake Alpine

Estimated
Average water temperature
Average water temperature for Lake Alpine, January through DecemberEach point shows the monthly average water temperature in degrees Fahrenheit.38°JJanuary: average water temperature 38°F38°FFebruary: average water temperature 38°F39°MMarch: average water temperature 39°F43°AApril: average water temperature 43°F50°MMay: average water temperature 50°F59°JJune: average water temperature 59°F65°JJuly: average water temperature 65°F66°AAugust: average water temperature 66°F60°SSeptember: average water temperature 60°F52°OOctober: average water temperature 52°F44°NNovember: average water temperature 44°F40°DDecember: average water temperature 40°F

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