Tent and RV camping options surround Lassen Volcanic National Park, with several campgrounds located within 20 miles of park entrances. The area sits at elevations ranging from 4,300 to 5,800 feet, resulting in cool nights even during summer months when daytime temperatures reach the 80s. Camping facilities near Lassen vary widely in their operating seasons, with many closing from mid-October through April due to snow accumulation.
What to do
Fishing access: Hat Creek Resort & RV Park provides immediate water access for anglers. "1st RV park that I ever took my trailer to. Easy to get in and out of the camp site large camp sites, the hat Creek runs right through the camp ground and we caught trout all morning," reports Frank P.
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds maintain walking paths for visitors. "Lots of trails to walk, often in shade. Owners are actively making improvements to increase enjoyment of their property," notes Carrisa about Lassen RV Park Campground. Another visitor mentioned, "There are trails to explore and amazing views."
Explore lava tubes: Natural volcanic features provide unique exploration opportunities near camping areas. "Campground is close to other fishing, the Subway Cave (ya gotta go there) Lassen National Park entrance and much more," recommends Outdoordude D. about Hat Creek Resort & RV Park.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the room between sites at certain campgrounds. At Hat Creek Hereford Ranch RV Park & Campground, one visitor noted, "We lucked out as there was a cancellation for the group site just minutes before we checked in. And we jumped at the chance to spread out!"
Grass camping areas: Uncommon in many parks, grassy tent sites receive praise. "We absolutely loved our 3 days here tent camping in a grass covered site... once you have camped in the grass nothing else compares! Barefoot and clean!" shares Chris K. about Hat Creek Hereford Ranch.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers matter to visitors of rv parks near Lassen Volcanic National Park. "The bathrooms were recently remodeled and offered spacious clean private showers with good water pressure and temperature," reports Tracy K. about Burney Falls/Hat Creek KOA.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Many campgrounds close during winter months. "Big Pine visitors noted that 'RV sewer dump closes mid-October,'" and Volcanic Country Camping & RV operates primarily during summer season. One review states, "There are 4 tent sites and 20+ RV sites... They have restrooms and showers (one stall and one shower for men and one and one for women)."
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly throughout the region. "No WiFi and we had no Cell service either," reports a KOA visitor. Other campers mention spotty coverage with certain carriers throughout the area.
Small store options: Several campgrounds maintain limited supplies. "The store here was closed, but there is one a couple miles down the road that is well stocked," notes Jason D. about his stay at Hat Creek Resort & RV Park.
Limited bathroom facilities: Some campgrounds have minimal facilities despite their size. "Bathroom old but works. Poor T Mobile service. No wifi," reports Brian and Janet S. about their stay at Volcanic Country Camping.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Red Bluff KOA Journey offers family-friendly water features. "A pool, fountains, full hookups, trash pickup at your site," notes Theo A. Another visitor adds, "We chose it for its convenient location on our route, and for its sparkling pool and hot tub, which was a huge win for our kids."
Activity areas: Some campgrounds provide recreational spaces for children. "They had a volleyball court, cornhole and a basketball area," mentions Kristi D. about Hat Creek Resort. Similarly, Red Bluff KOA includes "basketball court, horseshoe area, club house."
Entertainment options: Lassen area rv parks sometimes include family activities. "The campground has a natural beauty. Marked trails to walk, often in shade," shares a camper. Another mentions, "We didn't catch a thing but at least I wasn't working!"
Tips from RVers
Site configurations: Mountain Gate RV Park receives praise for its layout. "Well maintained and clean park. Actually has grass, not all gravel. Sites level," reports Noel L. Other reviewers appreciate concrete pads at some facilities, noting "all concrete sites and manicured and watered grass areas."
Power availability: RV sites vary in their electrical connections. While many parks offer 30-amp service, some provide 50-amp hookups. "Large concrete lot. Shade hard to come by. Has cell service, WiFi (slow), nice showers, bathrooms and laundry. Best for very large rigs with limited options," notes Alex G. about another area RV park.
Access considerations: Some parks have challenging approach roads. A KOA visitor mentions, "It was very quiet during week and while nearby highway has traffic noise, it became peaceful at night." Mountain Gate RV Park received this comment: "Beautiful setting, nice sites, friendly staff, and clean bathrooms. Only downside was the highway noise."
