Camping near Old Station, California centers around volcanic landscapes at 4,500 feet elevation with pine forests providing natural shade. The region sits near the junction of Highways 44 and 89, making it accessible for travelers from multiple directions while serving as a gateway to Lassen Volcanic National Park's unique geological features. Most camping options stand between 4,000-7,000 feet elevation, creating cooler temperatures than surrounding valleys.
What to do
Explore lava tubes: 5 miles from camp. The Subway Cave provides a natural underground attraction right across from the campground. "Cross the road and you will find a Lava Cave to explore. Down the road is historic Burney Falls. This campground is my favorite along Hat Creek," notes MarinMaverick, who appreciates the geological formations.
Hike volcanic features: 8-mile round trip. Butte Lake Campground serves as a starting point for the challenging Cinder Cone hike. "It's right by Cinder Cone (amazing views up top), Butte Lake and many nice hiking destinations," explains Patricia O., who recommends proper planning for this remote location.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple access points. Trophy trout attract anglers to Hat Creek's cold waters. "I like this place because you avoid the tourist type campers you will find in the Lassen National Park," says Ann N. about the more secluded fishing spots near Old Station.
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Multiple sites available. Big Pine Dispersed Camping offers free sites along running water. "Our parking spot is big enough for our travel trailer, right next to the creek. Clean, quiet, safe. No traffic. But No cell service," reports Whitney B., highlighting the balance of convenience and remoteness.
Spacious sites: 30+ feet between neighbors. Summit Lake North provides well-spaced camping spots with mountain views. "The are two loops and about 40 sites... We stayed at A5 for 2 nights in the north CG. Not the best site, but the place was full by night fall," shares MARY K., noting the campground's central location for park exploration.
Free camping options: No reservation needed. Butte Creek Campground offers cost-free sites for budget travelers. "Free site; vault toilets and some fire pits/ picnic tables; quiet, simple, close to hike extinct volcano and lake. Really perfect," says Nina M., appreciating the basic amenities without fees.
What you should know
Remote locations: Limited cell service. Most camping areas around Old Station have spotty or nonexistent phone reception. "No service, not great for starlink but you won't need it because of the peace and beauty," Nicole L. notes about Big Pine Dispersed Camping.
Road conditions: Gravel access to remote sites. Several campgrounds require driving on unpaved roads. "It's a gravel road. Not too dusty or bumpy. Maybe that is why it wasn't so populated," explains Bill T. about Butte Lake Campground's six-mile access road.
Limited facilities: Plan accordingly. Many dispersed sites lack running water or restrooms. "There is no cell service, no dump site, nor any grey water dump pits. The latrines are very nice with running water and toilets," notes Bill T., highlighting the need for self-sufficiency.
Tips for camping with families
Lake activities: Kid-friendly swimming. Manzanita Lake Campground offers safe water recreation for children. "We spent two nights here in the texts only loop and loved the quiet! Beautiful sunrises behind the peak, full facilities including a store, and all the park has to offer!" reports Tess S., who found it ideal for family camping.
Educational opportunities: Junior Ranger program. Children can participate in educational activities through the park service. "The museum has a Junior Ranger program which is a book of neat educational tasks for the kids to complete so that they can show it to a ranger and get a Junior Ranger Badge," explains Jillean G., describing the learning opportunities.
Bear safety: Food storage required. All campsites in the area require proper food storage due to wildlife. "Each site has a bear box, and use of it for all food and food prep, as well as toiletries is expected—campers cannot use their cars," warns Celina M., emphasizing the importance of following wildlife protocols.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Limited but available. Hat Creek Resort & RV Park offers full service sites for those requiring utilities. "Stayed at a full hookup site in my 22 foot travel trailer. We got a spot right on the water. The spots had a bunch of space between them and you had a feeling of privacy," reports Jason D., who appreciated the well-designed RV accommodations.
Parking considerations: Site angles matter. Many of the best places to camp near Old Station, California have uneven parking pads. "Many of the parking pads are at extreme angles, and would NOT be usable for folks with a roof-top tent, such as myself," cautions Jason G., warning about the challenges for certain setups.
Size limitations: Length restrictions. Not all campgrounds accommodate larger RVs. "I had a 21' travel trailer and wouldn't want anything bigger. Tight driving around all the trees," advises Eric G., explaining the practical limitations for larger vehicles.
