Lassen Volcanic National Park sits at elevations between 5,650 and 10,457 feet, creating dramatic temperature variations between day and night throughout the year. While the popular Manzanita Lake area offers developed facilities, the park's northeast section provides more remote camping experiences with fewer crowds. Lassen camping conditions often include dusty volcanic soil at established campgrounds, with dispersed options available in surrounding National Forest lands.
What to do
Hike to Cinder Cone: Located near Butte Lake Campground, this trail provides views of the painted dunes and lava beds. "The Cinder Cone hike along the old lava flow behind the campsite is spectacular! Don't let the climb up the cinder cone dissuade you; the panoramic view from the top is well worth it! We did it with two 6 year olds," notes Laura F.
Paddle on Butte Lake: Non-motorized watercraft offer a peaceful way to explore. "It's a great place to camp out of the way from all the other campgrounds in Lassen Park. The lake is close to the campground, quiet and peaceful. No motor boats. You must wear a life preserver if you put your boat in the water," explains Jeff B. from Butte Lake.
Fish in mountain streams: Creeks throughout the area provide fishing opportunities. "Caught a bunch of trout in the creek and had an absolute blast," shares Christine M. about her experience at Big Pine Dispersed Camping.
What campers like
Remote, less crowded areas: Many visitors appreciate finding quieter camping spots away from busier park areas. "This is my favorite campground in Lassen because it is not crowded and the sites are decent sized. It's right by Cinder Cone, Butte Lake and many nice hiking destinations," writes Patricia O. about Butte Lake Campground.
Creekside camping: Natural water features enhance many camping spots. "Best dispersed camping near Lassen. Area is clean w/ amazing creek side sites, fire pits, and plenty of space between. Nice and quite, other than the beautiful sounds of the babbling creek & birds," explains Bruce E. about Big Pine Dispersed Camping.
Convenience to trails: Summit Lake North Campground offers direct access to hiking. "The campground is about halfway point on the park road, so convenient for visiting the trails and vistas," notes MARY K. Summit Lake's location makes it practical for exploring multiple park areas without long drives.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most areas within and around the park have minimal connectivity. "No service, not great for starlink but you won't need it because of the peace and beauty," reports Nicole L. about Big Pine Dispersed Camping.
Unpredictable weather: Even in summer, temperatures can fluctuate dramatically. "Clouds drifted in about 2:00 p.m. each day with some sprinkles for about 1/2 hour keeping temps cool," observed Rhea M. at Summit Lake North.
Access road conditions: Some campgrounds require driving on unpaved roads. "The campground is at the end of a six-mile gravel road. Not too dusty or bumpy. Maybe that is why it wasn't so populated," notes Bill T. about Butte Lake Campground.
Insects: Depending on season and location, bugs can be problematic. "It was very buggy, really horribly buggy on labor day 2022," warns Scott S. about Butte Creek Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Lake swimming: Summit Lake North offers safe water activities for children. "Totally awesome lake that's safely swimmable for kiddos that's also available for day-use," recommends Corinna B.
Educational programs: Ranger-led activities provide learning opportunities. "There is a small ranger station here, and while I didn't go to any they are supposed to have educational programs at the amphitheater here," mentions Patricia O. about Summit Lake.
Bike-friendly campgrounds: Some areas allow kids to ride safely within the campground. "It's great seeing the kids ride around the loop on their bicycles and scooters," reports Celina M. about Manzanita Lake Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Animal sightings create memorable experiences. "Deer came through our camp," shares Kim L. about Butte Creek Campground, adding that sites are "fairly well spread out so you are not on top of your neighbor."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven parking areas. "Many of the parking pads are at extreme angles, and would NOT be usable for folks with a roof-top tent, such as myself. I got lucky and the spot I booked just happened to be one of the flat ones," explains Jason G. about Summit Lake South.
RV length limitations: Size restrictions apply at most campgrounds. "I had a 21' travel trailer and wouldn't want anything bigger. Tight driving around all the trees," advises Eric G. about Butte Creek Campground.
Dispersed options for larger rigs: Some forest roads accommodate bigger vehicles. "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," shares Stephanie I. about Big Pine Dispersed Camping.
