Summit Lake North Campground

For California locals seeking an extraordinary natural escape, Summit Lake North Campground within Lassen Volcanic National Park presents an idyllic destination. Located at Lassen Peak Hwy, Mineral, CA 96063, USA, this campground offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourselves in the awe-inspiring volcanic landscapes of Northern California while enjoying the serene beauty of Summit Lake. It’s a cherished spot for adventurers and families alike, providing direct access to some of the park's most iconic trails and a refreshing lake for post-hike dips. This article is designed to guide Californians through the exceptional experience that awaits at Summit Lake North Campground.

Summit Lake North Campground is widely considered by visitors as the ultimate lodging choice when exploring Lassen Volcanic National Park. Its prime location is a major draw, with "all the major trail heads are close to the campsite," making it incredibly convenient for daily excursions. After a rewarding day of hiking, the "lake makes a perfect swim," offering a refreshing natural cool-off. Campers appreciate the thoughtful amenities, including "a restroom with running water," emphasizing comfort despite the natural setting. While "no showers" are available directly at the campground, the lake serves "just as well" for a revitalizing dip. Many seasoned campers recommend "loop B as there seemed to be more sites with shade in that loop," highlighting the thoughtful layout. A recent visitor perfectly encapsulated the campground's allure, experiencing "the sunset lighting on warm and glowing on the forest, with reflection on the water," leading to a feeling of "Superior tranquillity!" This peaceful atmosphere, combined with the excellent access to Lassen's wonders, solidifies Summit Lake North as a must-visit for those seeking a harmonious blend of adventure and serene natural beauty.

Summit Lake North Campground is centrally located within Lassen Volcanic National Park, off Lassen Peak Hwy, Mineral, CA 96063, USA. Situated on the north shore of Summit Lake at an elevation of approximately 6,700 feet, it offers a picturesque setting amidst towering Jeffrey pines and a dense forest. Its strategic position makes it highly convenient for exploring the park's diverse geological features and extensive trail network. The campground is about 12 miles south of Manzanita Lake and 17.5 miles north of the Southwest Entrance to the park.

Accessibility to Summit Lake North is via the Lassen Peak Highway (Highway 89), the main park road. This road is well-maintained but is typically open only from late spring (usually June, depending on snowmelt) through early fall (usually October) due to heavy snowfall. Visitors should always check current park conditions and road statuses before planning their trip. While the road into the park and the RV sites can generally accommodate "big rigs," it's advisable for larger RVs to enter the park from the north entrance, as navigating from the south entrance can be challenging due to steep, winding roads.

Within the campground, the roads are paved and one-way, with a speed limit of 10 mph. Each campsite provides a parking area, and extra vehicles can use the day-use parking lot near the park entrance. It's important to note that while there are flush toilets, there are no electric, water, or sewer hook-ups at the campsites. Potable water spigots are available throughout the campground. Cell phone and internet service is generally spotty or unavailable within the park, encouraging a true disconnection from digital life. However, this also means campers should download maps and information in advance. The campground's location, offering both ease of access to major park attractions and a deep immersion in nature, makes it a highly accessible yet wonderfully secluded destination for California adventurers.

• Campsites: Summit Lake North Campground features 46 individual campsites set among a beautiful forest. Each site is equipped with a picnic table, a fire ring with a grill, and a bear-resistant food locker for secure food storage.

• Restrooms: The campground provides flush toilets, a notable comfort amenity in a national park setting, and they are reportedly "very clean." Vault toilets may also be available in some sections.

• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is available through spigots conveniently located throughout the campground, ensuring access to fresh water.

• No Showers: There are no showers directly at Summit Lake North Campground. As one reviewer creatively noted, "the lake works just as well!" However, coin-operated showers and laundry facilities are available at the Manzanita Lake Camper Store, located approximately 12 miles from Summit Lake at the park's northwest entrance.

• Bear Lockers: Due to the presence of wildlife, bear-resistant food lockers are provided at each campsite. Proper food storage is mandatory.

• Firewood Sales: Firewood is often available for purchase from the camp host, though campers may also gather dead wood that is on the ground. Cutting standing trees, dead or alive, is prohibited.

• Camp Hosts: Camp hosts are typically on-site to assist campers, maintain order, and provide information about the park.

• Reservations: All campsites at Summit Lake North are reservable up to six months in advance via Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak summer months, as sites "get snapped up pretty quickly."

• Pet Policy: Pets are allowed in the campground on a leash (maximum 6 feet) but are not permitted on park trails or in backcountry areas.

• Direct Lake Access for Swimming: The "lake makes a perfect swim after you are done hiking for the day," providing a refreshing and convenient way to cool off. Swimming is generally better from the north shore, which is less grassy than the south side of the lake.

• Proximity to Major Trailheads: "All the major trail heads are close to the campsite," including the Cluster Lakes loop trail and the trail to Lassen Peak, the park's largest volcano. This makes it an ideal base for exploring Lassen's 150+ miles of hiking trails, from easy strolls to challenging climbs to volcanic summits and hydrothermal areas like Bumpass Hell (within 10 miles).

• Superior Tranquility and Scenic Beauty: Visitors consistently praise the "Superior tranquillity" of the campground, noting the "sunset lighting on warm and glowing on the forest, with reflection on the water." The setting among towering Jeffrey pines creates a peaceful and visually stunning environment.

• Clean and Functional Facilities: The presence of "restrooms with running water" that are "very clean" significantly enhances the comfort of the camping experience, a valuable amenity for a national park campground.

• Shaded Campsites: Recommendations for "loop B as there seemed to be more sites with shade" indicate that many sites offer good tree cover, providing a welcome respite from the sun, especially during the summer.

• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: Lassen Volcanic National Park is home to a variety of wildlife. Campers might spot deer, various bird species, and should always be bear aware, utilizing the provided bear lockers.

• Volcanic Landscape Immersion: Staying within Lassen Volcanic National Park offers a unique opportunity to explore a landscape shaped by volcanic activity, including fumaroles, mudpots, and cinder cones, providing an educational and awe-inspiring experience.

• Convenient for Day Trips: The campground's central location on the main park road makes it a convenient hub for visiting other park attractions, visitor centers, and viewpoints.

Address: Lassen Peak Hwy, Mineral, CA 96063, USA (located within Lassen Volcanic National Park)

Phone: (877) 444-6777 (This is the National Recreation Reservation System number for reservations.)

For direct park inquiries or current conditions, it's recommended to contact Lassen Volcanic National Park directly: (530) 595-4444 (General Park Information).

Reservations: All campsites at Summit Lake North are reservable through Recreation.gov or by calling the number provided. Booking well in advance is highly recommended due to high demand.

For California locals, Summit Lake North Campground in Lassen Volcanic National Park offers an unparalleled High Sierra camping experience, combining adventure, relaxation, and stunning natural beauty. Its unique features and central location make it an ideal choice for residents seeking a memorable escape into one of the state's most distinctive national parks.

Here’s why it's particularly well-suited for Californians:

• Gateway to Lassen's Wonders: For Californians, Lassen Volcanic National Park is a unique natural treasure, often less crowded than other major national parks. Summit Lake North's central location puts "all the major trail heads close to the campsite," providing immediate access to the park's geological marvels, from steaming fumaroles to the challenging Lassen Peak summit hike. It's a perfect base for exploring this often-overlooked volcanic wonderland.

• Post-Hike Refreshment in a Natural Lake: The ability to jump into Summit Lake for a "perfect swim after you are done hiking" is a significant perk. This natural, refreshing dip is a quintessential High Sierra experience that many Californians seek, providing a unique alternative to traditional showers while connecting directly with nature.

• Superior Tranquility and Digital Detox: In a fast-paced state, the "Superior tranquillity" found at Summit Lake North is invaluable. The limited cell service encourages a genuine disconnection, allowing locals to fully immerse themselves in the "warm and glowing" forest and "reflection on the water." It's a chance to truly unwind and appreciate the quiet beauty of the wilderness.

• Comfort in a Rustic Setting: While primitive in terms of hook-ups, the presence of "restrooms with running water" that are "very clean" ensures a comfortable and hygienic camping experience. This balance of rustic charm with essential amenities is ideal for Californians who appreciate nature but also value basic conveniences.

• Shaded Sites for Summer Comfort: The recommendation for "loop B as there seemed to be more sites with shade" is a practical highlight for Californians facing warm summer temperatures. Good tree cover makes a significant difference in comfort, especially when spending extended time at the campsite.

• Seasonal Alpine Escape: The campground’s operation during the warmer months, when the snow has receded, makes it a highly anticipated seasonal escape for Californians. It provides a reliable opportunity to experience the high country's unique ecosystem, wildflowers, and wildlife during its prime.

In conclusion, Summit Lake North Campground is more than just a place to stay in Lassen Volcanic National Park; it's an immersive experience that caters perfectly to the Californian desire for outdoor adventure, serene relaxation, and connection with unique natural landscapes. Its combination of prime location, thoughtful amenities, and breathtaking beauty makes it a highly recommended and truly suitable destination for any local seeking an unforgettable journey into California's volcanic heart.

Summit Lake North Campground

Lassen Peak Hwy, Mineral, CA 96063, USA