Lassen Volcanic National Park
RV Guide
Introduction
Lassen Volcanic National Park offers exceptional RV camping across seven campgrounds with over 400 sites, featuring all four types of volcanoes, spectacular hydrothermal areas including Bumpass Hell, and 150+ miles of hiking trails. Manzanita Lake Campground provides the park's most amenities and best lake access, while strategic gateway locations like Redding RV rentals and nearby Mt. Lassen/Shingletown KOA offer prime access to this 106,452-acre volcanic wonderland that welcomed approximately 500,000 visitors in 2024, making it one of California's most geologically fascinating national parks.
What Makes Lassen the Ultimate RV Destination?
Nestled in the Sierra Nevada and Cascade Range mountains of northern California, Lassen Volcanic National Park showcases the raw power of volcanic activity with steaming fumaroles, boiling mud pots, and crystalline mountain lakes. Famous for being the only place on Earth where all four types of volcanoes exist in one location—plug dome, cinder cone, composite, and shield—this geological wonderland offers RVers a unique outdoor experience. From the spectacular Bumpass Hell, the largest hydrothermal area in the Cascades outside Yellowstone, to the 10,457-foot Lassen Peak that last erupted in 1917, the park demonstrates nature's incredible forces.
You'll discover endless adventure during your RV trip to Lassen, from hiking and fishing to stargazing and winter sports. The park's 150+ miles of trails range from easy boardwalk strolls through geothermal areas to challenging summit climbs with panoramic views. You can fish for rainbow and brown trout in pristine alpine lakes like Manzanita Lake and Butte Lake, or paddle non-motorized boats across crystal-clear waters. Photography enthusiasts will find spectacular subjects, including colorful hydrothermal features, wildflower-filled meadows, and volcanic landscapes that look otherworldly.
Summer offers ideal RV camping conditions, with comfortable temperatures typically ranging from 60 to 80 degrees at lower elevations, though nights remain cool. Late spring showcases rushing waterfalls and wildflower displays across subalpine meadows, while fall brings spectacular foliage and fewer crowds. Winter transforms Lassen into a snow-covered playground for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, though vehicle access becomes limited and only the southwest entrance area remains accessible.
The park welcomed approximately 500,000 visitors in 2024, with July being the busiest month at over 110,000 visitors. This makes advance planning essential for securing campground reservations during peak summer months, though Lassen remains significantly less crowded than California's more famous parks like Yosemite.
RV Rentals in Lassen Volcanic National Park
Transportation
Driving
You can access Lassen through two main entrances suitable for RVs. The Northwest Entrance off Highway 44 near the Loomis Museum (29489 Lassen National Park Hwy, Shingletown, CA 96088) provides access to Manzanita Lake and the park's northern attractions. The Southwest Entrance off Highway 36 near the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center (21820 Lassen National Park Hwy, Mineral, CA 96063) serves as the winter access point and connects to the Bumpass Hell Trail. Both entrances link via the scenic 30-mile Lassen Volcanic National Park Highway (CA-89) that winds through the heart of the park.
From Redding: Drive 48 miles east on Highway 44 to reach the northwest entrance, approximately one hour driving time.
From Red Bluff: Drive 51 miles east on Highway 36 to the junction of Highway 89, then follow 89 north 6 miles to the southwest entrance.
Important Note: The Lassen Volcanic National Park Highway closes to through traffic from late October through late June or early July due to heavy snowfall (the park receives around 430 inches of snow annually at 6,700 feet elevation). In 2023, the road fully opened on July 1st. During winter, only limited vehicle access exists to one mile from each entrance. The maximum RV length varies by campground, with most accommodating rigs up to 35 feet.
Where Are the Best Gateway Cities for RV Rentals?
Redding Gateway Access: Redding RV rentals position you perfectly for Lassen's northwest entrance via Highway 44, with approximately 48 miles (one hour) driving time to park boundaries. Redding offers full services, dining, shopping, and fuel before heading into the wilderness. This gateway city also provides access to nearby attractions, including Shasta Lake, Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, and the spectacular Burney Falls.
Shingletown Area Access: For those seeking a closer base camp with KOA amenities, the Mt. Lassen/Shingletown KOA sits at 3,900 feet elevation between Shingletown and Viola, offering spacious RV sites up to 65 feet long with full hookups. This location provides convenient access to the northwest entrance while offering a heated pool, dog park, and camp store amenities that aren't available inside the park.
Parking
You can park your RV at campgrounds and designated parking areas near the Kohm Yah-mah-nee and Loomis visitor centers, as well as at major trailheads throughout the park. The Bumpass Hell Trail parking lot fills quickly on summer weekends—arrive before 9 AM to secure a spot. Most parking areas accommodate RVs, though some popular trailheads have limited space for larger vehicles. During winter months (late October through June), vehicle access is restricted to one mile from each entrance, with limited parking available.
Public Transportation
Public transportation isn't available within the park. The nearest regional transit serves Redding and the surrounding communities. Once inside the park, exploring requires your own vehicle, bicycle, or feet. No shuttle services operate within park boundaries, making an RV or personal vehicle essential for visiting multiple sites and campgrounds.
Campgrounds and parking in Lassen Volcanic National Park
Campsites in Lassen Volcanic National Park
Reservations camping
Warner Valley Campground
Warner Valley Campground opens from June through September with 18 sites at 5,650 feet elevation, accommodating tents and small RVs up to 25 feet (the access road is rough and not recommended for large RVs or trailers). Located in the park's remote Warner Valley region, this campground requires navigating a bumpy dirt road but rewards with incredible solitude and access to spectacular hydrothermal features.
Nearby attractions include Boiling Springs Lake, a 125-degree geothermal wonder reached via a moderate 3-mile round-trip hike, and Devil's Kitchen, featuring steam vents and bubbling mud pots. The historic Drakesbad Guest Ranch operates nearby (reservations required, often booked years in advance). This primitive campground offers vault toilets and potable water but no other amenities—bring everything you need. Warner Valley provides the quintessential remote camping experience for those seeking to escape crowds.
Butte Lake Campground
Open from June to October, Butte Lake Campground is fairly remote, offering access to Butte Lake and nearby hiking trails. There are a total of 101 sites for you to choose from that are suitable for RVs up to 35 feet in length.
None of the sites at Butte Lake Campground have access to electric, water, or sewer hookups, so be prepared for primitive camping. Amenities include water collection points, vault toilets, and metal food lockers. Butte Lake Campground is also pet-friendly but be sure to check the rules and regulations.
If you choose to stay at Butte Lake Campground you’ll also be close to Old Station / Hat Creek, where you can buy other things that you may need or have forgotten. Reservations are available for sites within the B loop only and can be made up to six months in advance or four days prior to your arrival.
Mt. Lassen/Shingletown KOA
Located between Shingletown and Viola at 3,900 feet, this award-winning KOA offers full-service RV camping just outside the park. Sites accommodate rigs up to 65 feet with full hookups (electric, water, sewer), 30/50-amp service, pull-through access, and cable TV. The campground features a heated swimming pool, playground, tree swings, basketball court, volleyball, horseshoes, tetherball, fishing areas, and birdwatching spots. Additional amenities include a camp store with supplies, propane and firewood sales, bathrooms with showers, laundry facilities, a dog park, and Wi-Fi. Rental cabins provide options for those without RVs. This family-friendly campground sits conveniently close to Highway 44, making it an excellent base for exploring Lassen, Burney Falls, and Mount Shasta.
First-come first-served
Southwest Campground
Southwest Campground (also called Southwest Walk-In Campground) operates year-round with 21 walk-in tent sites at 6,700 feet elevation, located right next to the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center. This primitive campground operates entirely first-come, first-served with self-registration. Parking exists in a central lot, and campers carry gear to individual sites (typically 25-100 feet). No RV camping is permitted here, but the location makes it ideal for tent campers wanting easy access to the visitor center, café, and restrooms.
The campground provides immediate access to the Sulphur Works hydrothermal area and serves as the starting point for the spectacular Bumpass Hell Trail. In winter, when most park roads close, this area remains accessible and offers unique opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. During winter months (December through April), camping is permitted in the Southwest Area parking lot in self-contained vehicles like motorhomes and trailers (tent camping not allowed), making this the only winter RV camping option in the park.
North Shore Campground
Located on the shores of Lake Almanor with over a mile of waterfront, this family-oriented campground offers immaculate lake views, beach access, and numerous water activities. Just a short drive from Lassen's southwest entrance via Highway 36, North Shore provides modern RV hookups, clean facilities, and a peaceful environment. Lake Almanor offers boating, fishing, swimming, and water sports, making it perfect for families seeking both mountain and water recreation.
Juniper Lake Campground
Juniper Lake Campground operates from June through September with 18 sites at 6,792 feet, accessible only via a rough, unpaved road not recommended for RVs or trailers. This remote campground serves primarily tent campers and hardy adventurers willing to navigate challenging access roads. The campground offers stunning views of Juniper Lake and access to excellent fishing and primitive wilderness experiences.
Note: Juniper Lake was partially affected by the 2021 Dixie Fire, which burned approximately 69% of the park. Always check current conditions before visiting. The campground provides vault toilets and lake access, but minimal other amenities. This is truly backcountry camping within a national park setting, offering solitude for those seeking it.
Lassen RV Resort & Campground
Located in Fall River Mills on 68 acres of wild forest land with easy Highway 299 access, this peaceful resort offers spacious RV sites and tent camping in a rustic setting. The campground provides full hookups, modern facilities, and serves as a quiet retreat while maintaining proximity to amenities. Perfect for exploring Lassen Volcanic National Park and the expansive Shasta-Trinity National Forest, offering hiking, fishing, and swimming opportunities. The resort staff prioritizes making every stay peaceful and relaxing.
Alternate camping
Volcano Adventure Camp
The Volcano Adventure Camp (VAC), formerly Crags Campground, is exclusively available to organized youth groups, including schools, educational organizations, and scout troops by reservation only. This upgraded facility opened in 2017 and operates from mid-June through mid-September, offering cabins with cots, tent sites, showers, toilets, picnic pavilions, campfire circles, and environmental education programming. Youth groups must apply and be accepted through the Lassen Park Foundation. Grants are available for groups lacking funding.
Explore more RV parks and campgrounds across North America for your next adventure.
Backcountry Camping
Lassen offers exceptional opportunities for backcountry camping throughout its 106,452 acres, with designated backcountry campsites scattered across remote wilderness areas. Permits are required for all overnight stays and can be obtained at visitor centers or ranger stations. Remember that higher elevations retain snow through June, and proper bear safety measures are mandatory. All backcountry campers must use bear canisters for food storage. The park's backcountry provides solitude and access to remote lakes, pristine wilderness, and volcanic features far from developed areas.
Hat Creek Resort & RV Park
Situated near the famous Hat Creek, this campground offers excellent fishing access and comfortable RV sites with full amenities. Located between Lassen Volcanic National Park and Burney Falls, it serves as an ideal base for exploring multiple Northern California attractions. The resort provides easy access to the Pacific Crest Trail and numerous outdoor recreation opportunities.
Seasonal activities in Lassen Volcanic National Park
Fall
Wildlife Watching
Lassen Volcanic National Park is home to all kinds of interesting wildlife. While you may not want to go out searching for the black bears and mountain lions that reside here in the park, there are so many majestic creatures that you may be able to see during your stay. These include newts, salamanders, frogs, toads, raccoons, coyotes, foxes weasels, and skunks.
Stargazing
If you don't check out Lassen Volcanic National Park at night time you are really missing out. Lassen Volcanic National Park is one of the few places left where the natural darkness of night is still protected, and when you look up at the night sky you’ll be amazed at all the stars that you can see. If you are looking to do more than just stargazing alone you can also join a ranger-led Starry Night program to learn all about the night sky.
Art Workshop
Another great way to capture the lovely scenery around you is to paint it. At this workshop, you’ll get to learn the basic techniques of watercolor painting and use your new skills to capture the wonderful views that are all around. This workshop is three hours long and is great family fun for kids over the age of 10.
Nature Photography Workshop
Love photography? If so, you really should check out the Nature Photography Workshop. This workshop is two days long and is a great way to discover the beauty of the park. Not only will you get to take it all in, but you’ll also get to learn the best ways to capture all of the beauty with your camera. Photographers of all skill levels are welcome, especially beginners.
Day Hiking
At Lassen Volcanic National Park, there are over 150 miles of hiking trails for you to explore. The trails can range in difficulty levels from easy to strenuous, so there really is a trail for everyone. The locations where you’ll find the trails are split up into four sections: The Southwest area, Northwest area, Butte Lake area, and Warner Valley and Juniper Lake areas. This does not include the long Pacific Crest Trail which spans for 17 miles throughout the park.
Loomis Museum
Interested in learning more about Lassen Volcanic National Park and the surrounding area? If so, you must pay a visit to the Loomis Museum near the northwest park entrance. There are plenty of fun things to do at the museum, including the chance to check out some exhibits on volcanic activity within the park, speak with park rangers, see an orientation film, and shop at the Lassen Association Store. During the warmer months, it is also the meeting place for some of the ranger-led interpretive programs so check out the event schedule to see if something is on that is of interest to you.
Spring
Horseback Riding
The 100 miles of trails that are open to stock users are also open to horseback riders. Many horseback riders love to take advantage of this opportunity to go for peaceful rides here, and there are plenty of miles to allow for a change in scenery each time you visit the park.
Stock Use
At Lassen Volcanic National Park there are over 100 miles of trails available for those that wish to bring their stock. This includes any horses, mules, burros, and llamas that you have. Your animals will be thankful to get out and be able to roam for a bit here in the park, so if you live close by you should bring them.
Fishing
There are plenty of places to go fishing within the park, whether it’s on the shore or in a boat. Trout are naturally very popular in the area and can make for a fun fishing day. Just remember that all fishing is catch-and-release only, and be sure that you are following all rules and regulations in order to keep the park wildlife peaceful.
Backcountry Camping
Backcountry camping is a great way to get to know the park. Get up close and see all of the cool lakes, great mountains, and beautiful meadows. Before you go backcountry camping be sure to get a permit. You can do this by sending an application through email or in-person at one of many park locations, including the Lumis Museum, the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center, and many of the ranger stations throughout the park.
Auto Touring
Lassen Volcanic National Park offers all kinds of wonderful views, making it a perfect place to go auto touring. You can take the main highway all the way through the park, or turn off onto one of the three roads that branch off and dive deeper. All roads are closed during the winter months, but they open back up in the springtime. April is a good time to start checking for updates on road conditions.
Visitor Center
Once you arrive at Lassen Volcanic National Park, one of your first stops should be at the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center, near the southwest entrance to the park. You can check out interesting exhibits, grab a bite to eat at the cafe, buy a souvenir at the gift shop, or obtain a wilderness permit.
Summer
Parkcaching
If you’ve never heard of parkcaching, it’s an outdoor game where you must find objects or information throughout the park by using GPS coordinates. You can do this physically or virtually, and it’s a great way to get everyone interested in exploring the park. Join in on the Highway Parkcaching Challenge when you visit. The parkcaches will be removed at the end of October or whenever snowfall occurs.
Guided Hikes
If you want to tag along with someone who knows more about hiking and the park itself we recommend taking a couple of guided hikes. Whether this is your first time hiking or you’re exploring all the time, taking a guided hike can be a lot of fun. You can choose to take the guided hike around Manzanita Lake or to Mill Creek Falls. Either way, you’ll be guaranteed to have a good time.
Boating
There are plenty of lakes within Lassen Volcanic National Park, so if you like to go boating you will have plenty of options. Some of the most popular places to go boating are Manzanita Lake, Butte Lake, Juniper Lake, and Summit Lake. You can even rent canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and catarafts nearby. All rentals are on a first-come, first-served basis. Please note that there are no motorboats allowed on any of the lakes.
Bird Banding Program
These two ranger-led programs are a great way to learn about wildlife and the importance of certain plants and wildlife for birds. An evening program is held to give information, while a demonstration is held so that you can watch and see what happens. The park is all about protecting and preserving wildlife, and this includes birds.
Junior Firefighter Program
This is a ranger-led program that teaches about fire safety, the role of fire in the parks, and the role of firefighters. This 45-minute program is a great way to learn and is perfect for kids of all ages. Participants will be able to receive a junior firefighter patch when they go, what a bonus!
Dark Sky Festival
Thanks to the untouched wilderness that surrounds Lassen Volcanic National Park, it is a very popular place for stargazing. You can join astronomers and stargazing enthusiasts to celebrate the stars above at the annual Dark Sky Festival in August. View the heavens above in the solar scope, take a tour of the constellations, or learn about the cosmos at special presentations. If you are RV camping with children, this is a great family-friendly event with hands-on activities and a Junior Ranger Astronomy program.
Winter
Backcountry Skiing and Snowboarding
Backcountry skiing or snowboarding is recommended only for the most experienced skiers and snowboarders. All backcountry terrain falls within avalanche territory, so skiers and snowboarders should be completely aware and prepared for the worst by bringing the proper gear. Remember to bring your gear in your motorhome if you plan on exploring the backcountry of the park.
Snowball Fights
There’s no better way to say “I love you” to your sibling than chucking a snowball at them when they least expect it. In the wintertime here at Lassen Volcanic National Park, you can expect lots of snow, so you should make the most of it while you can and have some fun!
Cross-Country Skiing
During the winter, the highway that goes through the park is closed off, and this makes for the perfect place to go skiing. It’s a great opportunity for beginners to try skiing for the first time. There is also the McGowan Cross-Country Ski Area to try out if you are looking for more skiing to do.
Sledding
Sledding is a fun activity at Lassen Volcanic National Park in the winter due to the heavy snowfall that the area experiences. It is important to keep in mind though that sledding is the number one cause of injury at the park during this time of year. Be sure that you pick a slope that’s right for you, and be extra careful. Eskimo Hill is a popular spot to go sledding and is located on the north side. For more experienced sledders, there are steeper slopes on the south side.
Snowshoeing
If you want to go snowshoeing, you have the option of going on your own or joining others in a ranger-led snowshoe walk. There are routes that vary in levels of difficulty when you go by yourself. If you choose to participate in the ranger-led program, you’ll get to learn it all as you go, including how to put on the snowshoes and how to move around in them.
Birding
If you love to go birding during your RV adventures than you will love visiting Lassen Volcanic National Park since 216 species call this area home. You'll have the chance to spot all sorts of birds from bobolinks and American pipits to Golden eagles and ospreys. Bald eagles, Peregrines falcons, and Bufflehead ducks have habitats in the area. One of the best spots to go birdwatching is near Manzanita and Butte Lakes.
