Established Camping
Summit Lake South — Lassen Volcanic National Park
Summit Lake South, near Mineral, California, is a charming campground that offers a rustic experience right next to the stunning Summit Lake in Lassen Volcanic National Park. With a mix of tent and RV sites, it’s a solid choice for those looking to immerse themselves in nature without the frills.
The campground features picnic tables and fire pits, perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. Visitors have noted the clean facilities, including vault toilets and water spigots, which keep things simple and functional. One camper mentioned, “Beautiful lake. Great campsites. Cannot pay at site,” highlighting the scenic beauty and the need to plan ahead for your stay.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the area is a gateway to fantastic hiking trails and breathtaking views of the park's volcanic landscape. Some sites are conveniently located right by the lake, offering a peaceful spot to relax or enjoy a swim. Just be aware that the campground can get a bit dusty in the summer, so come prepared.
While the campground is more primitive compared to others, it has its own charm, especially for those who appreciate a quieter, less commercialized experience. Whether you’re here for a weekend escape or a longer adventure, Summit Lake South provides a great base for exploring the natural wonders of Lassen Volcanic National Park.
Description
Overview
Summit Lake South Campground (elevation 6,700 ft.) is conveniently located on the main road of Lassen Volcanic National Park. The campground is within walking distance of the small but scenic Summit Lake and eight miles from the 10,457-ft. Lassen Peak, the largest volcano in the park. Hikers will find one of the park's major trails only 1/4-mile away from the campground and many more within a close proximity. Summit Lake South is on the opposite side of the lake from Summit Lake North Campground.
Recreation
The campground is a hub for hiking and backpacking trails within the park. Campers can access many of the park's 150 miles of hiking trails from the Summit Lake area. The Cluster Lakes loop trail--a major trailhead into the park's interior that bypasses several alpine lakes and is popular among birders--is located a short walk away at the Summit Lake Ranger Station. This is the closest campground to the Lassen Peak Trail and within 10 miles of the hydrothermal area, Bumpass Hell. Educational programs are presented at an amphitheater within the facility.
Facilities
This facility has vault toilets, drinking water, campfire rings, picnic tables and a more secluded tent-only loop. There are no flush toilets. For more information visit Campgrounds of Lassen Volcanic.
Natural Features
The national park is known for its volcanic history, as well as its diversity of plants and animals. It contains 300 active volcanic domes and many hydrothermal features, such as mud pots and steam vents. Lassen Peak is the southernmost active volcano in the Cascades, and the second-most recent volcano to erupt in the lower 48 of the United States before Mount Saint Helens. Lassen National Park boasts over 700 species of flowering plants and 250 native species including birds, mammals, reptiles and fish. The park is at the junction of the Cascade Mountains, the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the Great Basin, thus providing many unique habitats.
Location
Summit Lake South — Lassen Volcanic National Park is located in California
Directions
From Redding, California take State Highway 44 east approximately 48 miles to the Manzanita Lake entrance of the park. The campground is 14 miles south of the entrance on the main park road.
Address
LASSEN VOLCANIC NP P.O.BOX 100
Mineral, CA 96063
Coordinates
40.4902778 N
121.4236111 W
Detours Nearby
Big Pine Dispersed Camping
26 min away
High Bridge Campground
1 hr 19 min away
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
Contact
General Info
Reservations
