Best Camping near Lassen Volcanic National Park

On the eastern side of Northern California, between Redding and Susanville, CA, you’ll find Lassen Volcanic National Park. Lassen doesn’t always get the love it deserves in a state filled with national and state parks. On the plus side, you won’t have to contend with the crowds you would when camping at Yosemite or Sequoia National Parks.

There are several campgrounds in Lassen, with only one (Southwest Campground) open all year. There are no hookups in the park, but Manzanita Lake, Butte Lake, and Summit Lake Campgrounds can best accommodate RVs with a dump station at Manzanita. Due to fires, some Juniper Lake, Warner Valley, and Southwest campsites have amended opening dates. If you can’t get a spot in the park, the best camping near Lassen Volcanic National Park is in the surrounding Lassen National Forest.

Best Camping Sites Near Lassen Volcanic National Park, CA (204)

    Camper-submitted photo from Manzanita Lake Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Manzanita Lake Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Manzanita Lake Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Manzanita Lake Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Manzanita Lake Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Manzanita Lake Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park

    1. Manzanita Lake Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park

    36 Reviews
    181 Photos
    5 Saves
    Mineral, California

    Overview

    Manzanita Lake Campground (elevation 5,900 ft.) is the largest campground in Lassen Volcanic National Park. It is within walking distance of the scenic Manzanita Lake, a popular fishing and family destination, and offers impressive views of Lassen Peak, the largest volcano in the park at 10,457 feet. The facility is conveniently located one mile south of the park entrance, close to The Loomis Museum, Loomis Ranger Station and popular hiking trails. Educational programs are presented at the museum and amphitheater.

    Recreation

    Manzanita Lake is popular with fly fishermen, but the campground does maintain a catch-and-release policy. Non-motorized boating is also permitted and Kayak rentals are available nearby. The park boasts more than 150 miles of hiking trails, a variety of which can be accessed from the campground, including family-friendly hikes as well as those for more experienced hikers.

    Facilities

    Manzanita Lake is popular with fly fishermen, but the campground does maintain a catch-and-release policy. Non-motorized boating is also permitted and Kayak rentals are available nearby. The park boasts more than 150 miles of hiking trails, a variety of which can be accessed from the campground, including family-friendly hikes as well as those for more experienced hikers.

    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, as well as 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 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 species of 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.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Cabins

    $15 - $26 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Butte Lake Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Butte Lake Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Butte Lake Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Butte Lake Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Butte Lake Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Butte Lake Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park

    2. Butte Lake Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park

    14 Reviews
    44 Photos
    42 Saves
    Old Station, California

    Overview

    Butte Lake Stock Corral (elevation 6,100 ft.) is located in the northeastern section of Lassen Volcanic National Park in northern California. It is fairly remote and within walking distance of Butte Lake, which is popular for fishing, canoeing, kayaking and swimming. Several trails are located nearby. The facility is 45 minutes from the main park road.

    Recreation

    Outdoor enthusiasts stay at Butte Lake Stock Corral for its many recreation opportunities. The lake is popular for trout fishing, as well as non-motorized boating. Trailheads within the facility include the hike to Snag Lake, trails leading to the interior of the park, and the Cluster Lakes loop. Longer trails nearby will take you to Juniper Lake and Summit Lake. The Pacific Crest Trail can also be accessed from Butte Lake and runs through the park.

    Facilities

    Outdoor enthusiasts stay at Butte Lake Stock Corral for its many recreation opportunities. The lake is popular for trout fishing, as well as non-motorized boating. Trailheads within the facility include the hike to Snag Lake, trails leading to the interior of the park, and the Cluster Lakes loop. Longer trails nearby will take you to Juniper Lake and Summit Lake. The Pacific Crest Trail can also be accessed from Butte Lake and runs through the park.

    Natural Features

    The area is dominated by Ponderosa pines and surrounded by soft volcanic soils. Extending into Butte Lake is a large black lava flow, creating rocky shores and interesting views for visitors in kayaks and canoes to explore. Trails suitable for horses are easily accessed from the corral and numerous forest roads just outside the park boundary. 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 Volcanic National Park boasts over 700 species of flowering plants and 250 species of vertebrates, 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.

    Nearby Attractions

    The Caribou Wilderness area is managed by the Forest Service has numerous trails that are suitable for stock use and can be accessed directly from the park via the Widow Lake trail.

    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian

    $37 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park Campground

    3. McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park Campground

    42 Reviews
    121 Photos
    456 Saves
    Cassel, California

    Pioneer Camp

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $35 - $143 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA

    4. Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA

    11 Reviews
    49 Photos
    58 Saves
    Shingletown, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Butte Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Butte Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Butte Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Butte Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Butte Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Butte Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Summit Lake North — Lassen Volcanic National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Summit Lake North — Lassen Volcanic National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Summit Lake North — Lassen Volcanic National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Summit Lake North — Lassen Volcanic National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Summit Lake North — Lassen Volcanic National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Summit Lake North — Lassen Volcanic National Park

    6. Summit Lake North — Lassen Volcanic National Park

    7 Reviews
    48 Photos
    77 Saves
    Mineral, California

    Overview

    Summit Lake North 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 North is on the opposite side of the lake from Summit Lake South Campground.

    Recreation

    The campground is a hub for hiking and backpacking enthusiasts. 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 from 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.

    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, providing many unique habitats.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $15 - $24 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Summit Lake South — Lassen Volcanic National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Summit Lake South — Lassen Volcanic National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Summit Lake South — Lassen Volcanic National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Summit Lake South — Lassen Volcanic National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Summit Lake South — Lassen Volcanic National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Summit Lake South — Lassen Volcanic National Park

    7. Summit Lake South — Lassen Volcanic National Park

    7 Reviews
    27 Photos
    117 Saves
    Mineral, California

    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.

    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.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $15 - $22 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Volcanic Country Camping & RV
    Camper-submitted photo from Volcanic Country Camping & RV
    Camper-submitted photo from Volcanic Country Camping & RV
    Camper-submitted photo from Volcanic Country Camping & RV
    Camper-submitted photo from Volcanic Country Camping & RV
    Camper-submitted photo from Volcanic Country Camping & RV

    8. Volcanic Country Camping & RV

    7 Reviews
    14 Photos
    97 Saves
    Mineral, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Hat Creek Resort & RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Hat Creek Resort & RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Hat Creek Resort & RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Hat Creek Resort & RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Hat Creek Resort & RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Hat Creek Resort & RV Park

    9. Hat Creek Resort & RV Park

    6 Reviews
    22 Photos
    59 Saves
    Old Station, California

    RV Sites, Tent Camping, Cabins, Yurts and Motel Rooms

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Southwest Walk-in Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Southwest Walk-in Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Southwest Walk-in Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Southwest Walk-in Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Southwest Walk-in Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Southwest Walk-in Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park

    10. Southwest Walk-in Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park

    5 Reviews
    33 Photos
    57 Saves
    Mineral, California

    The Southwest Walk-in Campground is located on the east side of the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center parking area. A short walk along a paved walkway provides easy access to each site. When snow is on the ground (approximately Nov-May), the location of the Southwest Campground changes to an over-the-snow area south of the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center parking area. Winter camping registration is located at the fee booth located south of the parking area.

    • Tents
    • Market
    • Trash
    • Drinking Water
    • Toilets
Showing results 1-10 of 204 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Lassen Volcanic National Park

Recent Reviews in Lassen Volcanic National Park

500 Reviews of 204 Lassen Volcanic National Park Campgrounds


  • michael D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from JGW RV Park
    Nov. 4, 2024

    JGW RV Park

    Well cared for and beautiful park

    Clean bathrooms and showers. Nice park. We stayed one night enroute to the bat area, but world have start much longer

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Pine Dispersed Camping
    Oct. 5, 2024

    Big Pine Dispersed Camping

    Great Dispersed spots

    Plenty of dispersed camping along the creek just south of Big Pine Campground. We found a could spots that our 38ft fifth wheel could fit, and many spots for smaller rigs. Water, dump, and trash are available at Old Station Visitor Information Center just north (RV sewer dump closes mid October)

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Merrill Campground
    Oct. 2, 2024

    Merrill Campground

    Beautiful Forested Campground

    It's definitely a 5-star campground, but if you don't fish, kayak or do paddle boarding, there is nothing else to do within 20 miles. National forest camping with power and electric, Wow!!! The price with a National Forest pass was only $32.

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from The Village at Highlands Ranch
    Sep. 26, 2024

    The Village at Highlands Ranch

    Perfect spot

    This was a perfect campsite. Came in late but everybody was eager and happy to help out. Met the hosts who took their time and explained about the park.

    Located only 10 minutes from Lassen and by the road and still an rv spot in the forest. Very nice.

    An upper class restaurant and a bar so something for everyone.

    Very recommandable

  • Patricia N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Grizzly Creek Campground
    Sep. 26, 2024

    Grizzly Creek Campground

    Nestled in the trees

    This campground is a very quiet spot after Labor Day, it is small, only 10 sites total and it is only open until September 30, which I don't understand since there is no snow here until November.

    When we were there only one other camper was staying here and he was a deer hunter.

    The water is shut off after Labor Day so come prepared. This campground has two sites that will take a 30' trailer and the remaining sites will take smaller trailers, tents or campers.

    One site has a new picnic table but all sites have tables, fire pits and plenty of room between sites. Pit toilets are near the entrance and only one was clean when we stayed here.

    Not to far from Bucks Lake if you want to camp and then drive to the lake.

    Fees have changed, they are $25 a night and $12.50 if you have the pass.

  • Patricia N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Rogers Cow Camp
    Sep. 26, 2024

    Rogers Cow Camp

    CLOSED

    This was a beautiful campground, primitive in the Plumas National Forest but it is burnt to the earth after the North Complex Fire and it will never reopen.

    We drove up on 9.25.24 to see if any of the down trees have been cleared and only some have been. You can pull into the camp but large dead and down trees prevent access to the campground.

    The pit toilet is also damaged and it is unlikely the USFS will make any repairs.

  • Patricia N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ponderosa Flat Campground
    Sep. 24, 2024

    Ponderosa Flat Campground

    PGE campground

    This campground and the one to the south, Cool Springs, are both run by Pacific Gas and Electric Utility company. 

    There are campground hosts at both campgrounds and late in September half of Ponderosa Flat closes. The entire campground closes at the end of September. 

    There was plenty of water in the Reservoir and it could be okay for a boat but you have to look out for all the snags in the water, and there are a lot of them.

    Campground is quiet but tight to get a large trailer in, ours is 26 feet and it was tight. The spaces in the closed portion of the campground were a bit more spacious. 

    Fire rings, tables and pit toilets. It was $30 a night with no power, power sites are more expensive. 

    If you have a cool campground host you can ride your ATV or Side by side out onto the dirt road and ride for miles. Just be mindful it is not really supposed to be a ride out campground.

  • Greg N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cave Campground
    Sep. 19, 2024

    Cave Campground

    Best of the USFS

    Flushing toilets, easy access, friendly host, gorgeous setting, level ground- can’t ask for any better at $8 a night (after interagency discount)!

  • aThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from North Eagle Lake Campground
    Sep. 14, 2024

    North Eagle Lake Campground

    Right along highway

    Sites were not completely level but workable. Looked like homeless folks might have lived there at some point. We made camp 1 night before headed on towards Oregon.

  • aThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Antelope Mountain Dispersed Camp
    Sep. 14, 2024

    Antelope Mountain Dispersed Camp

    One good area

    We only found one good area and it already had 2 people at it. It had level sites and nice tall trees. It also tucked in out of the wind. We some for other sites but they were windy, rough road to reach them, and not level so we moved on

  • Noel L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Mountain Gate RV Park
    Sep. 14, 2024

    Mountain Gate RV Park

    Nice campground

    Well maintained and clean park. Actually has grass, not all gravel. Sites level. Nice pool and laundry room. One night stay and arrived late so did self check in...no password for bathrooms were given, so asked a neighbor for a password. One of the restrooms was shut down for repairs. Too pricy.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from North Eagle Lake Campground
    Sep. 12, 2024

    North Eagle Lake Campground

    Great place

    I’ve never seen cleaner pit toilets Lisa said it all almost. The toilet also have a side table with magazines. We had a good site with a distant lake view. Easy in and out. Can’t beat it for a short overnight stay. The hosts are to be commended.

  • Claire D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from 31N17N - North Manzanita Dispersed Camping
    Sep. 3, 2024

    31N17N - North Manzanita Dispersed Camping

    Convenient dispersed site near Lassen

    Same experience as the other reviews. Arrived late Friday night on Labor Day weekend and found a spot right at the beginning of the dirt road - coming from Redding direction, turned right off of 44 onto the dirt road then took the first right. The turnoff is on Google maps and was easy to find even in the dark. Nobody else around that we saw, even given the busy weekend! Agreed with others on the road noise but it was fine. Just a few minutes from Manzanita lake. Great find!

  • lThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from North Eagle Lake Campground
    Aug. 21, 2024

    North Eagle Lake Campground

    Clean and spacious

    Great stop. The Most Immaculate pit toilets ever! Many pull through sites. Easy on/off Hwy 139. Trees . Quiet. Only one other camper there on a Monday . Honor federal interagency passes.

  • a
    Camper-submitted photo from Haskins Valley Campground
    Aug. 6, 2024

    Haskins Valley Campground

    Nice, easy access to lake

    It's along a cove in the lake. Super nice hosts and nice campers. The bathrooms are kind of gross but that's expected. Always camp here when we go to the lake.

  • Jim B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Boulder Creek RV Redding
    Jul. 28, 2024

    Boulder Creek RV Redding

    Disgusting

    My family and I were recently evacuated from my home due to a wildfire. We are fortunate enough to have an RV and were able to get to an evacuation area. After staying a few days in the evacuation zone, we needed to refill our water and empty our tanks so I visited Boulder Creek.

    I offered to pay for some water and for use of their dump station. I was immediately met with the following statement by their front desk employee: “It’s 20 bucks to dump and I don’t do water fills.” 

    I’ve met some of the kindest and most gracious people during this incident, but I was disgusted as I walked out and noticed the freshly watered little planters full of flowers and the lack of humanity or even an attempt at kindness shown by Boulder Creek’s employees. 

    I highly recommend to anyone looking for a place to stay in Redding to find somewhere else.

  • jojo B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Hirz Bay Campground
    Jul. 26, 2024

    Hirz Bay Campground

    beautiful bear playground

    oh wow what a fantastic and gorgeous location. really well maintained when it comes to their bathrooms (flushing & sinks) and trash cans… but holy bear. around 4am a black bear (maybe 500lbs?) came through our site and pulled on the bear box and kept it moving to check neighboring sites (which were vacant) only to come back shortly later for a few sniffs. this would’ve been less scary had we been in an RV buuuut tent camping + bear is not the vibe guys. it definitely smelled us and knew exactly where we were & we’re incredibly fortunate but of course we were terrified. i’d definitely come back with different equipment and plenty of mace and really wish there were more signs about the likelihood of bears in this area at this time. there were a handful of signs but so small and easy to get lost amid all the other super valuable information.

  • tom P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Rocky Point Dispersed Camping
    Jul. 23, 2024

    Rocky Point Dispersed Camping

    Suitable but barren

    There's signs acknowledging it's free camping. Large barren area with a toilet near the lake. Not great for a tent but can make it work. Good distance away from roads and houses. Lake view.

  • mThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Merrill Campground
    Jul. 18, 2024

    Merrill Campground

    Nice lakeside camp

    Large state lakeside camp, well laid out. Clean toilets but no showers. Ca, so expensive. Great bike/hiking paved path In The pines. Lake entry about 200 yards from Lowest campsites which are unpowered sites. Water and electric available on the two upper levels. We did not have reservations, 4 powered sites and many unpowered were available. We chose the basic site, closer to the lake side.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cool Springs Campground
    Jul. 17, 2024

    Cool Springs Campground

    Secret Place Near Lake Almanor

    Just try to get a last minute camp spot on Memorial Day weekend most places.  We were fortunate to discover Butt Lake near Lake Almanor.  Only one small burn area far from the campgrounds.  Friday was opening day for Cool Springs campground.  A PG&E operated facility, it was in great shape and ready for the season.  We did three nights, departing on Monday.  On Friday night we were one of only a few guests.  Saturday and Sunday were full, but the feeling was vary spacious.  The lake is a reservoir with no actual inlet.  Rather it is fed by a pipe from Lake Almanor with a hydroelectric plant just prior to the water entering Butt Lake.  Oddly for a PG&E lake there is not hydroelectric plant at the outlet dam.  Did some bike riding to check out the dam, Ponderosa Flat campground, Pioneer cemetery, and east shore of the lake.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Merrill Campground
    Jul. 14, 2024

    Merrill Campground

    Rare USDA camp with power and water

    Stayed one night and loved Eagle Lake. Rare USDA campground with power and water. Lovely forest area shades the camp. Lots of families with bikes and dogs all on leashes. Great bike paths to ride or walk right next to the lake.



Guide to Lassen Volcanic National Park

Camping near Lassen Volcanic National Park offers a unique experience filled with stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from, each with its own charm.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails around the park. One camper mentioned, "The hiking is incredible and there is a trail that goes around the lake" at Manzanita Lake Campground.
  • Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Rent kayaks or paddleboards at Manzanita Lake Campground for a fun day on the water. A visitor noted, "There are kayak, cataraft, and SUP rentals available for Manzanita Lake."
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. One reviewer at Butte Lake Campground shared, "The setting is very open, with tall pines and no undergrowth, but the sites are far apart."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. A visitor at Merrill Campground said, "Large state lakeside camp, well laid out. Clean toilets but no showers."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many appreciate the peacefulness of the campgrounds. One camper at Summit Lake North mentioned, "This is a smaller campground... We could see a bit of the lake from our site through the trees."
  • Family-Friendly: Campgrounds like Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA are great for families. A reviewer noted, "It’s a great family spot and there were lots of dogs and kids running around."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds lack certain facilities. A camper at Butte Lake Campground pointed out, "There is no cell service, no dump site, nor any grey water dump pits."
  • Crowded During Peak Season: Expect busy campgrounds in summer. One visitor at Manzanita Lake Campground said, "This campground is huge and busy."
  • Site Selection Matters: Some sites may not be suitable for larger RVs. A camper at Summit Lake South advised, "You have to park on the parking pads that are not level."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose the Right Campground: Look for family-friendly spots like Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA. A reviewer mentioned, "The tent camping spots are far enough from people and you don’t feel like you’re on top of each other."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. One camper at Merrill Campground enjoyed the "great bike/hiking paved path in the pines."
  • Pack Essentials: Bring along games and outdoor gear. A visitor at Butte Creek Campground noted, "It was very buggy... but lovely spot otherwise."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Levels: Ensure your RV can fit comfortably. A camper at Manzanita Lake Campground mentioned, "Some pull-throughs and some back-in... very few are close to level."
  • Be Prepared for Limited Services: Many campgrounds don’t have full hookups. A reviewer at Merrill Campground said, "Rare USDA campground with power and water."
  • Arrive Early: To secure a good spot, especially during peak times. One camper at North Shore Campground advised, "If your rig is over 30 ft you will have a more difficult time getting into spaces."

Camping near Lassen Volcanic National Park, California, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. With the right preparation, you can enjoy everything this beautiful area has to offer!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Lassen Volcanic National Park?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Lassen Volcanic National Park offers a wide range of camping options, with 204 campgrounds and RV parks near Lassen Volcanic National Park and 23 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Lassen Volcanic National Park?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Lassen Volcanic National Park is Manzanita Lake Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park with a 4.4-star rating from 36 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Lassen Volcanic National Park?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 23 free dispersed camping spots near Lassen Volcanic National Park.

  • What parks are near Lassen Volcanic National Park?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 18 parks near Lassen Volcanic National Park that allow camping, notably Lassen National Forest and Shasta-Trinity National Forest.