The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App

Camping near Old Station, CA

187 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.

Search destinations
    Add dates
    SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

    Camping sites near Old Station, California range from developed campgrounds to RV parks with full amenities. Butte Lake Campground sits inside Lassen Volcanic National Park where campers can set up near interesting volcanic features. Each site comes with picnic tables and fire rings, which works well for families. Hat Creek Resort & RV Park lies just three miles from Old Station and handles both tents and RVs with full hookups. Wildlife like deer and many birds live throughout the Old Station area, so keeping food stored properly matters for all campers. Most camping spots can be reached on regular roads, though some spots might need vehicles with higher clearance, particularly in winter when snow piles up. You won't need permits for most camping around Old Station, but always check current fire rules, especially when things dry out in summer. Many campers find spring and fall best for visiting when the weather stays mild and the landscape looks good. Summer heat can make tent camping tough without trees for shade. Winter camping works if you bring the right gear for cold nights. Remember that Lassen National Park limits stays to 14 days. Old Station has something that fits whether you're planning a quick weekend or staying longer.

    Connectivity Maps

    Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
    Map showing cell service coverage and campground pins
    Try Connectivity Maps

    Best Campgrounds near Old Station (187)

    Filters    Tent onlyRVDispersedCabinGlampingPetsEquestrian

      1. Manzanita Lake Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park

      4.5(40)13mi from Old Station180 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "We took an eight-day tour through Northern California and this was our first leg. Tent-camped three nights."

      "California Hidden gems."

      from $26 / night

      Check Availability

      2. Big Pine Dispersed Camping

      4.8(15)4mi from Old StationRVs, Tents

      "Water, dump, and trash are available at Old Station Visitor Information Center just north (RV sewer dump closes mid October)"

      "The only reasons for 4 instead of 5 stars is: noise from logging along nearby 44 and  weekend OHV noise. But what a gorgeous spot with creek access and camp spots well distant from one another."

      3. Butte Lake Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park

      4.4(15)10mi from Old Station1 siteRVs, Tents

      "It's right by Cinder Cone (amazing views up top), Butte Lake and many nice hiking destinations. Bear boxes (yes, you need to use them), toilets, running water (though you need to check late season)."

      "Located off a well maintained gravel road near beautiful Butte Lake. We had no problem towing our trailer to this location and neither did our friends whose trailer is 30+ ft."

      from $37 / night

      Check Availability

      4. Hat Creek

      4.6(8)1mi from Old Station79 sitesRVs, Tents

      "The road is dirt, but well graded and runs parallel with the creek with 5 different loops coming off of it. so the further you head back, the further you are away from Hwy 89."

      "You have direct access to Hat Creek, which is a great palce so sit beside, and to fish if you have a mind to. Nice sites under tall trees. Can be very hot in the summer so check your weather. "

      from $16 - $80 / night

      Check Availability

      5. Butte Creek Campground

      4.0(11)8mi from Old StationRVs, Tents

      "Free site; vault toilets and some fire pits/ picnic tables; quiet, simple, close to hike extinct volcano and lake. Really perfect"

      "Off the beaten path and limited cell reception. Clean natural sites and vault toilets. Basic!"

      Check Availability

      6. Hat Creek Resort & RV Park

      4.9(7)3mi from Old StationRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "Fishing in camp and nearby. Friendly staff. Had originally reserved a back in site, but emailed to hopefully get a pull through. Got a quick reply, and all taken care of."

      "Nice spot near the NP. Level spot, nice clean bath and shower area. Got a nice hot shower, thank you!"

      Check Availability

      7. Cave Campground

      4.6(7)1mi from Old StationRVs, Tents

      "Located along the banks of Hat Creek this is a place for those who like to fish.  Cross the road and you will find a Lava Cave to explore. Down the road is historic Burney Falls."

      "Found the camp and sites easily right off the highway across from the Subway Cave. Visited for the night with my oldest son’s Boy Scout troop, troop 16."

      Check Availability

      8. Hat Creek Dispersed

      4.8(5)1mi from Old StationTents

      "This spot is close to the road, but the drive does run parallel. I have a 4x4 Tacoma and I found it a little difficult initially to navigate past the first hill."

      "Take creek trail. Bathrooms, garbage, water available at main campground. 1 bar lte AT&T."

      Check Availability

      9. Summit Lake North — Lassen Volcanic National Park

      4.6(8)13mi from Old Station46 sitesRVs, Tents, Glamping

      "Our decision for our final resting place -pun intended- was situated between two rocks on the flattest stony ground we could find. We had heard gusts could reach 70 mph at night."

      "We stayed here two nights after spending one night at the larger Manzanita Lake CG. The are two loops and about 40 sites. There is also a South Summit Lake CG."

      from $24 / night

      Check Availability

      10. 31N17N - North Manzanita Dispersed Camping

      4.6(8)13mi from Old StationRVs, Tents

      "Being right off the main road and so close to Lassen, this spot almost felt too good to be true."

      "About one mile south of the northwest entrance, so it’s convenient. Follow the instructions from other campers as they’re spot on."

      Check Availability
    View all 187 campgrounds

    Drive Time

    Recent Camping Photos near Old Station, CA

    155 Photos of 187 Old Station Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers

    Recent Reviews near Old Station, CA

    578 Reviews of 187 Old Station Campgrounds

    • Heather E.The Dyrt Pro User
      Aug. 24, 2026

      Merrill Campground

      Quiet Campground with Stellar Sunsets

      Right on Eagle Lake in Lassen National Forest, this campground has a mix of electric and non electric sites with views of the lake. Clean bathrooms with mirrors, flush toilets but no showers. If you want a shower, bike, walk or drive down to the marina where they have private rooms for showers. Boating, kayak and paddleboard in addition to fishing (water is high alkaline which makes for big trout). Quiet campground with big sites.

    • mThe Dyrt Pro User
      Aug. 15, 2026

      Christie Hill Basecamp

      Great spot close to Lassen South Entrance

      The forest road is super accessible with a bunch of different spots to choose from as you traverse down the road. There are some fire rings in some of the spots. No water, bathroom, etc. Road is fairly well maintained but drive with caution if no 4WD or AWD and low clearance. Only 3.5 miles from the entrance so it’s a perfect place to stay before or after going through Lassen NP.

    • Kurt T.
      Aug. 13, 2026

      Almanor

      For the North Campground, what a shame and serious safety issues for all.

      Simply put, I am embarrassed to say that this one was opened with major safety issues. I was even told by a person at the Almanor Ranger Office in Chester that they were forced to open this campground.  
      Safety issues:
      -Trees were fell and slash was left behind without cleanup by contractor.
      -Boulders were moved and above mentioned slash was covering the holes left by the moved boulders creating major safety trip/fall hazards. These hazards could cause twisted and/or broken legs and feet and more.
      -Fire Hazard: Above mentioned slash was left behind everywhere for it to dry out an become a major fire hazard. Yes, the camp site around the table and fire ring was cleared, but only by about 10-15 feet.  
      -Limited walking areas: As the slash was left behind, areas for walking or the kids playing was like walking in a minefield.  Even on the paved drive path, there is holes and to move out of the way for trucks/campers requires movement onto the above ,mentioned slash that was not cleaned up.

      I grew up in this area and after being gone in the military for over 30 years, I came home.  This poor campground is a disgrace and I am deeply saddened by the condition the USFS and it's contractor left it in. If I was in charge, I would not have let it open for public use due to the safety issues. 

      What a shame.

    • TThe Dyrt Pro User
      Aug. 8, 2026

      31N17N - North Manzanita Dispersed Camping

      Amazingly secluded

      We bypassed the sites that were immediately to the right off FR17 (Mineral Rd) to see if there were others up the road. There is one cute site right near the creek but directly on the road so a lot of dust if you stayed there. We continued past 20W and came around the corner to an amazing multi site area! Easily could have had 3 or 4 rigs in here and indeed, there were 4 campfire rings. And no one there! We had it all to ourselves (Tue-Wed-Thu) and were able to easily get to Manzanita Lake and into Lassen. Don't let the piles of logging debris fool you - just go past it!

    • Jacquie B.The Dyrt Pro User
      Aug. 7, 2026

      American Eagle RV Park

      Nice place beautiful view

      This is a campground that has great potential and Jason the manager is working hard to get it that way. 

       Full hook up site with great view. Looks like there are 2 nice playgrounds, a softball field, horse shoes and hiking trails, much more that I didn't get the chance to check out. 

       Jason was a great help to me, I'm on a trip back to Michigan and my last stop a portion of the bottom cover/liner fell off. (the dealer had cut a large square out to work on it.) Jason got it back on better than the dealer would have, tied up some wires that were hanging. He did a great job for a reasonable price. Thanks Jason 

      I highly recommend this campground; just keep in mind it is a work in restoring progress.  

      Also even though it was in the 90's I had a great, shaded spot and could sit outside the breeze made it comfortable.

    • Terry C.The Dyrt Pro User
      Aug. 4, 2026

      Cassel Campground

      Very Quiet and Peaceful

      I stayed at Cassel with a group from my fly fishing club.  It is old, but has everything one needs and was quiet.  I stayed over Sunday night after club left and it was really nice.  The sites are large and private.  I can't speak to the bathrooms as I only used my own in my trailer.  I wish the campground had a dump station.  There is one a few miles away in Old Station.  Camp hosts were pleasant and helpful.

    • RThe Dyrt Pro User
      Jul. 27, 2026

      McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park Campground

      Clean and Quiet

      We have wanted to visit Bernie Falls for several years, finally made it! Like a fellow reviewer, we noted the reservation system was often full, felt lucky to get a cancellation spot. Upon arrival, half the campground was empty, thus that helped with it being quiet. Campground and bathrooms were clean. Very nice visitor center and general store. Enjoyed the Falls Loop Trail as well. The Falls, of course, were spectacular. We wouldn’t mind returning on another visit.

    • Michelle H.The Dyrt Pro User
      Jul. 26, 2026

      Summit Lake North — Lassen Volcanic National Park

      Excellent place to visit Lassen NP!

      We’ve camped here every year for the past five years. This was the our first trip with our new to us travel trailer. We book six months in advance and always get sites B2 and B3. These sites have a beautiful view of the lake. We get up early and set up our blanket and chairs in our lake spot. The lake is big enough to paddle board and kayak but small enough where you can keep an eye on your kids the entire time.

      Zero hook ups whatsoever, but you can use the dump station for free at Manzanita lake on your way up to fill your freshwater and then dump on your way out. Summit Lake North has flush toilets and sinks, I believe Summit Lake South Campground only has vault toilets.

      Park Rangers patrol through every once in a while and the bathrooms are cleaned and stocked daily.

      There is no cell service but if you drive about five minutes up the hill, you can get some service. It is a short drive to Kings Creek Falls and about a 15 minute drive to bumpass hell.

      Highly recommended.

    Guide to Old Station

    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.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    When is the best time of year to camp at Old Station, CA?

    The best time to camp at Old Station is late spring through early fall (May to October), when weather conditions are most favorable. Butte Lake Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park typically operates from June through early October, with peak season in July and August offering warm days and cool nights. Late season camping should be approached with caution as facilities like the RV sewer dump at the Old Station Visitor Information Center close by mid-October. Manzanita Lake Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park is generally quiet even during summer peak times, making it a good option throughout the season.

    What amenities are available at Old Station campground?

    Campgrounds near Old Station offer varying amenities to suit different camping styles. Cave Campground provides standard amenities including picnic tables, fire rings, and food storage facilities, and is situated along Hat Creek making it ideal for fishing enthusiasts. For those seeking services, the Old Station Visitor Information Center offers water, a dump station (closes mid-October), and trash disposal. Big Pine Dispersed Camping provides more primitive options along the creek with access to the visitor center's facilities. Nearby campgrounds in Lassen Volcanic National Park feature bear boxes, toilets, and running water, though availability may be limited in late season.

    Where is Old Station campground located in California?

    Old Station is located in northeastern California along Highway 44/89, near the northwest entrance of Lassen Volcanic National Park. This area serves as a gateway to various camping opportunities, including Hat Creek Resort & RV Park which is situated in Old Station proper. The region is approximately 14 miles northwest of Lassen Volcanic National Park's Manzanita Lake entrance and about 52 miles east of Redding. Old Station sits at the intersection of three scenic byways and serves as an important stop for Pacific Crest Trail hikers, with the Old Station Visitor Information Center providing resources for travelers.

    Keep Exploring

    4. View all California cities for camping