Camping at Lake Alpine Pine Marten Campground

General Overview

Lake Alpine Pine Marten Campground is situated in the Stanislaus National Forest, close to Lake Alpine, which is an ideal location for a variety of outdoor activities including fishing, boating, and hiking. It's named after the American pine marten, a native inhabitant of the area's forests.

Camping Facilities

The campground is usually well-equipped, offering basic amenities such as:

• Campsites with space for tents and RVs (note length restrictions where applicable)
• Picnic tables and fire rings at each campsite
• Vault toilets
• Drinking water may be available, but it's always a good idea to bring your own

Campsite Reservations

• Many campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Some campsites might be reservable in advance through a national reservation system.
• Reservation details and availability can be checked on the official USDA Forest Service website or Recreation.gov.

Activities

• Fishing: Lake Alpine is popular for trout fishing.
• Boating: Non-motorized or electric-motor boats are often allowed; check if there are any restrictions or permits required.
• Hiking: Trails for all levels are accessible, such as the Lake Alpine Loop Trail.
• Swimming: The lake is suitable for swimming, but there are no lifeguards on duty.
• Wildlife Watching: Be prepared to encounter local wildlife including the elusive pine marten.

Things To Know

• Altitude Awareness: Lake Alpine is at a high altitude, so be prepared for cooler temperatures and take precautions to avoid altitude sickness.
• Bears and Wildlife: Proper food storage is crucial to avoid attracting bears and other wildlife.
• Fire Restrictions: Fire restrictions may be in place, especially during dry periods.
• Weather: The camping season generally runs from late spring through early fall, with the exact dates dependent on weather conditions.

Access and Local Services

• Access to Lake Alpine Pine Marten Campground is typically via well-maintained roads suitable for most vehicles.
• Check the status of local roads before heading out, especially outside of the summer season.
• Nearest services such as stores, gas, and additional accommodations may be found in nearby towns.

Environmentally Sensitive Area

• As with all outdoor areas, it's important to practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the beauty and health of the forest ecosystem.

Contact Information

For the latest information and any alerts:

• Call or visit the local ranger district office.
• Check the U.S. Forest Service website specific to the Stanislaus National Forest.
• Utilize updates from Recreation.gov regarding reservations and campsite availability.

Lastly, always check for any recent changes or advisories before planning your trip to ensure the most successful and enjoyable camping experience.