Dispersed tent campsites near Alta, California range from 5,000 to 7,000 feet elevation throughout Tahoe National Forest. Most camping areas remain open from late May through October, with higher elevation sites sometimes inaccessible until July due to snow accumulation. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing, while summer daytime highs typically reach 75-85°F.
What to do
Kayaking at Bowman Lake: Paddle the calm waters at Bowman Campground where you can explore the lake's perimeter and hidden coves. A camper noted, "The lake is beautiful and try to hike to the waterfalls at the creek at the end of the lake if you can."
Swimming in warm lakes: Rucker Lake offers unusually warm water temperatures during summer months, perfect for extended swimming sessions. According to one visitor at Rucker Lake Campground, "This lake is a quiet getaway, with waterfront access and a warm lake. Short hike in but has picnic tables and bear boxes."
Star gazing at open meadows: The Onion Valley area provides excellent night sky viewing opportunities away from light pollution. A camper mentioned, "Those open spaces allow for some great star gazing night."
Wildlife observation: Early mornings at higher elevation campsites offer opportunities to spot deer, foxes, and numerous bird species. Morning and evening hours provide the best viewing times when animals are most active.
What campers like
Isolation from crowds: Many tent campers appreciate the remoteness of Faucherie Lake Group Campground, with one visitor sharing, "I've been out to this campground on countless years with my family from when I was a young child to now, I think only once or twice did we have to share the grounds with another group!"
Lake access for recreation: Campers consistently mention the convenience of lakeside camping for fishing and paddling. "Awesome spot to camp, fish, off road, launch a kayak or paddle board," noted one Bowman Lake visitor.
Cool summer temperatures: The elevation provides natural air conditioning during summer months when valley temperatures soar. One camper at Lake Spaulding Campground shared, "We take our Kayaks and spend the day on the lake. It gets choppy in the afternoon so be aware."
Wildflower meadows: Spring and early summer bring vibrant wildflower displays to many camping areas. A visitor to Onion Valley noted, "I loved the open fields of wild flowers."
What you should know
Road conditions require preparation: Most tent camping destinations near Alta involve rough roads with significant challenges. A camper at Grouse Ridge Campground reported, "The road was much more technical than a standard forrest service road, but doable in most stock crossover vehicles or better."
Limited water availability: Few campgrounds provide potable water, requiring campers to bring sufficient supplies. A Rucker Lake camper noted, "No drinking water available, unless you purify your own from the lake."
Temperature fluctuations: Despite warm days, nighttime temperatures can drop dramatically, especially at higher elevations. One camper at Faucherie Lake shared, "During the night, the temperature got down to 30°F. It was rough, but a worthy price to pay for peace and quiet away from summer crowds."
Early season snow: Late-season snowpack can affect accessibility and camping conditions well into June. A visitor observed, "I expected some snow, since this year was so heavy. But there was too much snow to make it much rather than 4-5 miles up the already rough road."
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible lakes: For families with young children, select camping areas with shorter hiking distances to water features. At Rucker Lake, a camper advised, "Got here on a Friday late afternoon and found a walk in spot close to the lake. Nice, quiet campground."
Pack for variable weather: Temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night require layered clothing and adequate sleeping gear. Multiple reviews mention unexpected cold nights even during summer months.
Consider wildlife safety: Store food properly in provided bear boxes where available. A Bowman Lake camper noted, "We've never had issues with animals or bugs at Bowman Lake," but proper precautions remain essential.
Bring plenty of drinking water: The lack of potable water at most campsites requires bringing 1-2 gallons per person per day. A visitor to Lindsey Lake Campground advised, "No trash service, no piped water. There are picnic tables and fire rings."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations matter: Most tent campgrounds near Alta have severe restrictions for larger vehicles. One camper mentioned, "It is possible to get a smaller trailer there but not recommended."
Park and hike options: Consider parking at more accessible locations and backpacking to remote tent sites. A visitor suggested, "The surrounding area is National Forest Land, though, so you can dispersed camp for free."
Vehicle clearance requirements: High-clearance vehicles offer significant advantages for accessing remote tent campsites. A Bowman Lake camper emphasized, "MAKE SURE YOU HAVE AN OFF ROAD VEHICLE. Great campsite but hard to get to. Not bad if you have a 4x4 that's lifted with some all terrain tires."
Arrive early for best spots: The limited number of accessible sites fill quickly during summer weekends. Sites at popular locations like Lindsey Lake "are first come first serve and are often full by Thursday afternoon."
