High-country granite and clear water define the setting at West Shore, a drive-in and boat-in campground on the western edge of Lake Alpine in Stanislaus National Forest. Sites are spacious, which reviewers note helps absorb the crowds this popular spot regularly draws, especially on summer weekends. Cell service is available. The campground accommodates RVs up to 52 feet, and drinking water, firewood, and flush toilets are on-site.
The lake itself pulls in paddlers and anglers, with kayak and paddleboard rentals available through the nearby lodge. A trail circles the full perimeter of the lake and sees relatively light foot traffic compared to the main campground area. The lodge includes a restaurant, a full bar, and a small general store stocked with camping supplies. Showers are available but require payment, and at least one reviewer found the bathroom facilities less than clean.
Pete M. describes it as "a high country lake, with big rocks and clear water," which captures the terrain well. Pets are allowed, and campers traveling with dogs can also browse dog-friendly camping around Stanislaus National Forest to compare options in the region. The $32 nightly fee requires a reservation. Campers wanting a quieter or more primitive setup might consider Stanislaus National Forest Lake Alpine Campground just to the north, or (Lake Alpine) Backpackers — Stanislaus National Forest a short distance east.
Description
Overview
West Shore Campground sits directly off the north shore of Lake Alpine. It is walking distance to the boat launch, rentals, and Lake Alpine Lodge.
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, 3 tents, and 2 vehicles per campsite. Picnic tables, campfire rings, 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
West Shore Campground sits at an elevation of 7,400 feet on the north 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.
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.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & Directions(Lake Alpine) West Shore is located in California near Bear Valley
Public CampgroundCoordinates
38.477333 N
120.008045 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage
VerizonLTESome Coverage- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
Features
For Campers
- Market
- Trash
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 1 hr 36 min from Carson City, NV
- 1 hr 49 min from Stockton, CA
- 2 hrs 3 min from Reno, NV
- 2 hrs 14 min from Sacramento, CA
