The best camping in Lassen Volcanic National Park, CA

An underrated gem in Northern California, Lassen is home to a landscape of surreal hydrothermal features and more than 30 volcanic domes of all four volcano types, including the world’s largest plug dome volcano. It also offers pristine mountain lakes, wildflower meadows, forests, and more than 150 miles of trails and backcountry to explore. Don’t miss the scenic highway through the park. In winter, extensive snowfall turns the area into a winter wonderland ideal for snow play. Eight primitive and developed campgrounds offer overnight options that include tent sites, no-hookup RV sites, and cabins, perfect for admiring the dark night sky.

• Best for amenities: The Manzanita Lake Campground is full of amenities, including a camper store with kayak rentals and showers.
• Best for seclusion and geothermal activity: The remote Warner Valley Campground is close to several hydrothermal features and Drakesbad Guest Ranch.
• Best for year-round camping: Near the Visitor Center, the Southwest Walk-in Campground is the only one open year-round.

1. For peak summer season, plan to reserve a campsite as soon as you know your dates. Reservations can be made from four days and up to six months in advance.
2. If you don’t have a reservation, plan to arrive before noon or during the week to grab a site at a first-come, first-served campground.
3. Be sure to check on seasonal opening and closing dates, which vary by campground.

Summer (July to September) is the best and most popular time to visit. Although the park rarely gets crowded, campgrounds are limited and book up in advance. Water may not be available at campgrounds in early summer or late fall. The Loomis Museum is only open in summer, while road and trail access are both snow dependent. Snow often starts falling in October and can remain until July, though it usually stops in April.

• Wilderness permits are required for backcountry camping, where fires are not permitted. Fires are only allowed in fire rings in developed campgrounds.
• Be bear aware, especially when camping. Store food and other attractants in a bear-proof container, away from your tent.
• Stay on trails, especially in the Bumpass Hell area, to avoid serious injury from hydrothermal features.
• Grab a fishing license for those 16 and over. Special regulations apply at Manzanita Lake.
• Cell phone service is limited in the park, but free wifi is available at the visitor center.
• Pets are allowed in the park, but not on hiking trails, in the backcountry, at any body of water, or inside park facilities.