Public Campground
1-2 tents
Campo, California
Campground in California.
Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.
About Manzanita Lake Campground
Campground in California.
Nestled in the shadow of Lassen Volcanic National Park, Manzanita Lake Campground offers RV travelers a gateway to one of California's most dramatic natural landscapes. This public campground sits at the park's northwestern entrance, positioning you perfectly to explore volcanic peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and geothermal wonders that have captivated visitors for generations.
The location provides an exceptional base camp for adventure. Manzanita Lake itself is the focal point, a stunning alpine lake fed by snowmelt and surrounded by towering conifers and volcanic rock formations. The crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding peaks, creating the kind of scenery that makes you understand why this area has inspired photographers and nature lovers for decades. Whether you're an early riser watching mist rise off the water at dawn or enjoying peaceful evenings as the light turns golden across the volcanic slopes, the lake offers constantly changing beauty throughout the day.
From this campground, the wonders of Lassen Volcanic National Park are immediately accessible. The park encompasses over 106,000 acres and features the dramatic Lassen Peak, a 10,457-foot volcano that last erupted in 1917. The park's volcanic landscape tells an incredible geological story, with evidence of ongoing geothermal activity visible throughout. Popular day trips include the Manzanita Lake Loop Trail, which circles the lake and offers varied perspectives of this alpine jewel, and numerous other hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging backcountry adventures.
The surrounding region offers much to explore beyond the park boundaries. The area provides access to pristine forest environments, excellent fishing opportunities for those seeking alpine trout, and wildlife viewing possibilities. The elevation and location mean you'll experience genuine mountain seasons, with cooler nights even during summer months and the kind of star-filled skies that remind you why dark sky preservation matters.
This destination suits travelers seeking authentic mountain experiences, families looking for outdoor education and adventure, photographers pursuing dramatic natural light and geological features, and anyone seeking refuge in California's wilderness. The proximity to both natural wonders and essential services makes it an ideal jumping-off point for exploring one of the Sierra Nevada's most geologically significant regions.
The location provides an exceptional base camp for adventure. Manzanita Lake itself is the focal point, a stunning alpine lake fed by snowmelt and surrounded by towering conifers and volcanic rock formations. The crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding peaks, creating the kind of scenery that makes you understand why this area has inspired photographers and nature lovers for decades. Whether you're an early riser watching mist rise off the water at dawn or enjoying peaceful evenings as the light turns golden across the volcanic slopes, the lake offers constantly changing beauty throughout the day.
From this campground, the wonders of Lassen Volcanic National Park are immediately accessible. The park encompasses over 106,000 acres and features the dramatic Lassen Peak, a 10,457-foot volcano that last erupted in 1917. The park's volcanic landscape tells an incredible geological story, with evidence of ongoing geothermal activity visible throughout. Popular day trips include the Manzanita Lake Loop Trail, which circles the lake and offers varied perspectives of this alpine jewel, and numerous other hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging backcountry adventures.
The surrounding region offers much to explore beyond the park boundaries. The area provides access to pristine forest environments, excellent fishing opportunities for those seeking alpine trout, and wildlife viewing possibilities. The elevation and location mean you'll experience genuine mountain seasons, with cooler nights even during summer months and the kind of star-filled skies that remind you why dark sky preservation matters.
This destination suits travelers seeking authentic mountain experiences, families looking for outdoor education and adventure, photographers pursuing dramatic natural light and geological features, and anyone seeking refuge in California's wilderness. The proximity to both natural wonders and essential services makes it an ideal jumping-off point for exploring one of the Sierra Nevada's most geologically significant regions.
4.6
Rating
316
Reviews
Park Details
Tips & Tricks
Book Early
Viola is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.
Check-in Time
Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.
Local Weather
California weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for Viola.
Explore the Area
Don't miss local attractions near Viola. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.
Manzanita Lake Campground Reviews
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Catherine Hunt
Mar 23, 2026
4.0
Google Review by Catherine Hunt
We had a 3 night reservation in mid-October. We decided to cancel our reservation a few days before the free cancellation date due to the government shut down. We didn’t know whether the campground will be open and there was no update on the website. We also found out that they turn off the water in the campground starting mid-October. We stayed in another private RV campground that was 15 min... We had a 3 night reservation in mid-October. We decided to cancel our reservation a few days before the free cancellation date due to the government shut down. We didn’t know whether the campground will be open and there was no update on the website. We also found out that they turn off the water in the campground starting mid-October. We stayed in another private RV campground that was 15 minutes away. We visited the campground when we were there, and it would have been nice to stay inside the park since it is a long drive to get to the trails. Manzanita Lake is beautiful.
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Tony Iuga
Mar 23, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Tony Iuga
Large and well-kept campground, good base for exploring Lassen Park. Just heads up that some sites are quite close to one another with no privacy, so try to book early to get a more private spot. Also recommend walking the trail around the lake for some unreal views!
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Eric Bradley
Mar 23, 2026
2.0
Google Review by Eric Bradley
My wife and I stayed there, October 16th and 17th During the government shut down. When we got to the gate, there was no way to pay so we proceeded to the campground. Went through loop B and found a site and set up and didn’t go over to see the camp host because we didn’t know she was there. I had planned on going and Finding a way to pay after being set up by means of the iron ranger or other mea... My wife and I stayed there, October 16th and 17th During the government shut down. When we got to the gate, there was no way to pay so we proceeded to the campground. Went through loop B and found a site and set up and didn’t go over to see the camp host because we didn’t know she was there. I had planned on going and Finding a way to pay after being set up by means of the iron ranger or other means. About an hour after getting there and set up the Camp host knocked on our door and I came out to greet her. She immediately was nasty and calling me a thief and a squatter and that she was going to call the Ranger. I tried to explain our situation and she didn’t want to hear my explanation at all. The rudest camp host I have ever dealt with. I actually said “ you could be nice” and she said no no no and stormed away. My wife went back to her to try to explain the situation and she also yelled at my wife so we walked away. The Ranger came by about 30 minutes later and I explained the situation and he gave us a warning and said that there have been squatters Lately since the shutdown and I said I had no intention of not paying for our campsite. The worst absolute experience ever at a national park. This camp host ruined it.
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Marcus K.
Mar 23, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Marcus K.
Simple but beautiful campground. Use Recreation.gov to reserve a site. If you dont have reservation you still need to log into. The site to claim a spot. Fortunately there is wifi at the visitor center (not at the park store). Keep in mind that there is no water available. Need to bring your own. Also, no cell service but campground is sparsely tree covered. We were able to use Starlink jus... Simple but beautiful campground. Use Recreation.gov to reserve a site. If you dont have reservation you still need to log into. The site to claim a spot. Fortunately there is wifi at the visitor center (not at the park store). Keep in mind that there is no water available. Need to bring your own. Also, no cell service but campground is sparsely tree covered. We were able to use Starlink just fine at our site. Lots of hiking nearby including a beautiful trail right from camp.
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lauren mcdonald
Mar 23, 2026
5.0
Google Review by lauren mcdonald
Great campsite with clean bathrooms. They do have showers you can use for $5 per person. Nice camp-store as well with necessities, local Lassen wine bottles, and some hot food.
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