Summit Lake Campground

For Californians seeking a refreshing escape into one of the state's most geologically fascinating and beautiful natural areas, Summit Lake Campground in Lassen Volcanic National Park offers an exceptional experience. Nestled at an elevation of approximately 6,700 feet, this campground provides a perfect base for exploring the unique landscape of a national park renowned for its hydrothermal features, volcanic peaks, and serene alpine lakes. Whether you're a local planning a family vacation, a hiking enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat with stunning views, Summit Lake Campground is a highly recommended destination that promises both adventure and tranquility. We’ll delve into what makes this campground a cherished spot for Golden State residents, detailing its prime location, the services it offers, its spectacular features, and why it's ideally suited for your next unforgettable California outdoor adventure.

Summit Lake Campground isn't just a place to set up camp; it's a gateway to an immersive natural experience. Visitors consistently highlight its "great spot for a hike around the lake," emphasizing the accessible and scenic trails that begin right from the campground. Imagine waking up to the crisp mountain air, stepping out of your tent or RV, and being greeted by "great views of Mount Lassen from the back side of the lake." This iconic vista, combined with the peaceful ambiance of the lake, creates a truly idyllic setting. The convenience of "parking available for day use" also suggests a well-managed area that caters to both overnight campers and those just passing through for a day hike. It's a place where the grandeur of Lassen Volcanic National Park is right at your doorstep, inviting exploration and offering a genuine connection with California’s wild heart.

Summit Lake Campground is situated at Lassen Peak Highway, Mineral, CA 96063, USA, placing it directly within the breathtaking confines of Lassen Volcanic National Park. This location is approximately 12 miles south of Manzanita Lake and 17.5 miles north of the Southwest Entrance of the park, making it a central and convenient base for exploring various park attractions. Lassen Volcanic National Park itself is located in northeastern California, accessible via State Highway 89 (Lassen Park Road) which traverses through the park.

The accessibility of Summit Lake Campground is a significant advantage for Californians. Highway 89, while a mountain road, is generally well-maintained during the open season (typically late spring/early summer through fall, depending on snowmelt and snowfall). This allows for relatively straightforward access for most vehicles, including RVs, to the campground. The campground is divided into two sections, North and South Summit Lake, both offering access to Summit Lake and connected by a short trail. South Summit Lake Campground has certain limitations for larger RVs or trailers (except small tent trailers), while North Summit Lake can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 60 feet in some sites. The ease of reaching this national park gem from various parts of California, combined with the distinct options within the campground, ensures that a wide range of local campers can find a suitable spot to enjoy the unique volcanic landscape.

Summit Lake Campground provides a range of essential services and facilities designed to make your camping experience comfortable and convenient within the beautiful, yet wild, setting of Lassen Volcanic National Park. These services cater to both tent and RV campers, with some distinctions between the North and South sections.

• Campsites: The campground offers 94 campsites across its North and South sections. Sites are available on both a first-come, first-served basis (A-Loop and E-Loop) and by reservation (B-Loop, C-Loop, and D-Loop), with reservations available up to six months in advance via Recreation.gov or by phone.
• Campsite Amenities: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, a fire grate (with a grill), and a bear-proof storage box to safely store food and scented items. This is crucial given the presence of wildlife.
• Restrooms: Summit Lake North Campground provides flush toilets, offering a higher level of comfort, while Summit Lake South Campground offers pit toilets. Both are generally kept clean.
• Potable Water: Potable water spigots are available seasonally within the campground, ensuring access to drinking water. (Note: Water is turned off in dry camping conditions, resulting in a discounted fee.)
• Accessibility: Three campgrounds in Lassen Volcanic National Park offer wheelchair-accessible campsites near accessible restrooms, including site A1 at Summit Lake North.
• Trash/Recycling Collection: Seasonal trash and recycling collection services are available, promoting responsible waste disposal.
• Camp Hosts: Campground hosts are present, typically at the beginning of A-Loop site 3 in North Summit Lake, providing assistance and information to campers.
• Parking: Parking areas are available for both overnight campers and day-use visitors around the lake. Campsites are limited to 2 vehicles (including RV) per site.
• Permit System: A self-registration system is in place for first-come, first-served sites, requiring payment within 30 minutes of arrival.

Summit Lake Campground is rich with natural features and recreational highlights that make it a premier destination within Lassen Volcanic National Park. These elements contribute to an unforgettable outdoor experience for Californian visitors:

• Stunning Lake and Mountain Views: A paramount highlight is the "beautiful Summit Lake" itself, offering "awesome views of the lake if you take a full round around it." From the "back side of the lake," campers can enjoy "great views of Mount Lassen," the park's majestic namesake volcano.
• Prime Hiking Hub: The campground serves as a hub for hikers, with easy access to "many of the park's 150 miles of hiking trails." The "easy" trail around Summit Lake is a popular choice, and the Cluster Lakes loop trail, a major trailhead into the park's interior, is a short walk away. It's also the closest campground to the Lassen Peak Trail and within 10 miles of the famous Bumpass Hell hydrothermal area.
• Diverse Recreation Opportunities: Beyond hiking, the lake offers opportunities for swimming (generally better from the north shore), boating (non-motorized), and fishing, allowing for a variety of water-based activities.
• Peaceful and Scenic Environment: Visitors consistently describe the campground as "nice" and emphasize its proximity to the "beautiful Summit Lake," creating a serene and picturesque setting for relaxation and connection with nature.
• Amphitheater Programs: Educational programs are presented at an amphitheater within the facility (Summit Lake North), offering ranger-conducted activities that enrich the visitor's understanding of the park.
• Wildlife Awareness: The presence of bear-proof boxes at each site highlights the natural wildlife in the area, encouraging responsible food storage and an appreciation for the park's ecosystem.
• Two Distinct Campground Sections: The division into North and South Summit Lake campgrounds provides options, with North generally having flush toilets and a better swimming area, while South offers a slightly more rustic feel with pit toilets and can be quieter, especially outside of the tent-only E-Loop.
• Well-Maintained Facilities: Reviews often praise the "clean" campsites and restrooms, indicating a commitment to maintaining a high standard of cleanliness for visitor comfort.

For direct inquiries regarding Summit Lake Campground within Lassen Volcanic National Park, the following contact information is provided. It's always advisable to contact the park directly for the most current information, especially concerning seasonal operations, reservations, and specific park alerts.

Address: Lassen Peak Hwy, Mineral, CA 96063, USA

Phone: (530) 595-4480

Mobile Phone: +1 530-595-4480

For campground inquiries specifically, the Lassen Volcanic National Park provides a phone number: (530) 595-6121. While both numbers provided should connect to park services, the latter may be more direct for camping-related questions. Reservations for some loops at Summit Lake Campground can be made online via Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. For the most up-to-date information on operating hours, current conditions, and alerts (such as road closures due to snow), checking the official National Park Service website for Lassen Volcanic National Park is highly recommended.

Summit Lake Campground in Lassen Volcanic National Park is an exceptionally suitable destination for Californians seeking an enriching and accessible outdoor experience within one of the state's most unique natural treasures. Its blend of stunning scenery, essential amenities, and direct access to diverse recreational opportunities makes it an ideal retreat for a wide range of local adventurers.

For Californians, the campground's location within Lassen Volcanic National Park is a major draw. The ability to wake up to "great views of Mount Lassen" and immediately access "a hike around the lake" offers an immersive experience into California's extraordinary volcanic landscapes. This direct connection to natural wonders, from the serene Summit Lake to nearby hydrothermal areas like Bumpass Hell, provides educational and awe-inspiring moments unique to this region. The "easy" hiking trails around the lake make it family-friendly, catering to different fitness levels while still providing breathtaking vistas.

The practical amenities further enhance its suitability. The presence of both flush and pit toilets (depending on the loop) and potable water spigots (seasonally) ensures a comfortable stay. The availability of bear-proof boxes at each site emphasizes responsible wildlife interaction, a crucial lesson for all Californians enjoying their state's wild spaces. Furthermore, the option for both first-come, first-served sites and reservable spots allows flexibility in planning, catering to both spontaneous trips and well-organized vacations. Summit Lake Campground is more than just a place to sleep; it’s a gateway to understanding and appreciating California’s geological dynamism, offering a peaceful and beautiful base for locals to explore, relax, and create lasting memories in their own backyard.

Summit Lake Campground

Lassen Peak Hwy, Mineral, CA 96063, USA