Camping at Manzanita Lake State Park
Overview of Manzanita Lake Camping
Manzanita Lake Campground is one of the most popular camping destinations within Lassen Volcanic National Park. It's located near the park's northwest entrance and provides a range of amenities suitable for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and first-time campers. The campground is well known for its scenic beauty and easy access to Manzanita Lake, offering excellent opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and photography.
Camping Facilities and Reservations
Facilities: Manzanita Lake Campground includes over 170 sites for tents and RVs, with a range of sites from standard non-electric to tent-only. The campground is organized into loops with restrooms equipped with flush toilets and sinks. Running water, picnic tables, fire rings, and food storage lockers are also provided at each campsite to protect from wildlife.
Reservations: Reservations for campsites can be made in advance, generally from late May or early June through October, which is the typical operating season. The winter season offers first-come, first-served camping, weather permitting. The reservations can usually be made up to 6 months in advance through the National Recreation Reservation System.
Activities and Amenities
Recreational Activities: Apart from enjoying the lake for fishing (catch and release only for rainbow and brown trout) and boating (only non-motorized or electric motors allowed), visitors can also hike the surrounding trails. The Manzanita Lake Loop Trail is an easy trail suitable for all ages that offers stunning views of the lake and Lassen Peak. Other activities include ranger-led programs, swimming, and bird watching.
Amenities: The campground is in close proximity to a camper store, where you can purchase supplies and souvenirs. There is also a boat launch area, coin-operated showers, and a laundry facility. The Loomis Museum and a visitor center are nearby, providing educational displays and information about the park.
Wildlife and Safety
Wildlife: Lassen Volcanic National Park is home to various wildlife species. Black bears are common in the area, so proper food storage in the provided lockers is mandatory to prevent unwanted encounters. Visitors are advised to keep a safe distance from all wildlife and never to feed animals.
Safety: Additionally, campers should be aware of the potential for sudden weather changes and should come prepared for cold temperatures, as even summer nights can be chilly. Fire safety is critical, and campers should adhere to any fire restrictions and always extinguish campfires completely before leaving them unattended.
Regulations and Good Practices
Park Regulations: To preserve the park's natural resources, there are strict regulations regarding the collection of plants, rocks, and artifacts. Wood collection for campfires is not permitted, but firewood can be purchased at the camper store.
Leave No Trace: Visitors are encouraged to follow 'Leave No Trace' principles to minimize their impact on the environment. This includes proper waste disposal, camping only in designated areas, and respecting other visitors' experiences.
Access and Seasonal Information
Getting There: Manzanita Lake is located approximately 50 miles east of Redding, California, and can be accessed via State Route 44. The entrance to Lassen Volcanic National Park, where the campground is situated, is off of Lassen Volcanic National Park Highway.
Seasonal Access: It's important to note that Lassen Volcanic National Park experiences heavy snowfall, and many park roads and facilities (including Manzanita Lake Campground) are closed during the winter months. However, winter activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing can be enjoyed in other parts of the park.
Visitors should check the National Park Service's official website or contact the park directly for the most up-to-date information on campground status, conditions, and any alerts or closures before planning their trip to Manzanita Lake.
