Established Camping
Pine Marten Campground
Pine Marten Campground, near Arnold, California, is a popular spot for families and outdoor lovers alike. With its beautiful surroundings and access to Lake Alpine, it’s a great place to set up camp and enjoy nature.
This campground offers a mix of amenities, including drinking water and clean restrooms, which visitors appreciate. Many campers enjoy the nearby walking paths and the chance to kayak or paddleboard on the lake. One reviewer mentioned, “It’s a good spot if you like to kayak or SUP,” highlighting the water activities available.
While it can get crowded, especially on weekends, the scenery and facilities make it worth the visit. The Inspiration Point trail is a favorite among hikers, offering stunning views of the area. Just keep in mind that the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early during the week is your best bet for a good spot.
If you’re looking for a family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of outdoor activities, Pine Marten Campground is a solid choice. Just remember to secure your food, as bears are known to roam the area. Enjoy your time soaking in the beauty of the Stanislaus National Forest!
Description
US Forest Service
Stanislaus National Forest
Overview
Pine Marten Campground is located in the Calveras Ranger District, at the east end of Lake Alpine Recreation Area in a timbered setting near several trailheads. Campground may open earlier and close later on a first come first serve basis 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, 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, bathrooms 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 Resort.
Natural Features
Pine Marten 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. Squirrels, chipmunks, deer, marmots, coyotes, bears, eagles, and many different birds make this area their home. The wildflowers are also beautiful!
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 there is Grover Hot Springs, Mercer Caverns, Mountain Adventure Seminars, and the wine country of Calaveras County.
Location
Pine Marten Campground is located in California
Coordinates
38.480752 N
119.988643 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage
VerizonLTESome Coverage
AT&T5GGood Coverage
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Market
- Trash
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
Drive Time
- 1 hr 34 min from Carson City
- 1 hr 50 min from Stockton
- 2 hrs 2 min from Reno
- 2 hrs 16 min from Sacramento
