Backcountry Camping In Lassen's Wilderness

About

Lassen Volcanic National Park's wilderness encompasses over 75,000 acres of volcanic terrain, alpine lakes, and subalpine meadows available for dispersed backcountry camping. Unlike established campgrounds, there are no designated campsites, tent pads, picnic tables, or facilities of any kind. Campers must be fully self-sufficient and practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all trash and toilet paper. A wilderness permit is required for all overnight stays and must be obtained exclusively through Recreation.gov up to 90 days before your trip. There are no quotas or limits on daily permits. Bear-resistant food containers are mandatory from April 16 through November 30; hanging food is prohibited. Fires are not allowed anywhere in the backcountry; only liquid or gas fuel stoves are permitted. Camping is prohibited within 100 feet of water, 1/4 mile of hydrothermal areas, and 1/2 mile of developed areas. The backcountry is typically accessed from four primary trailheads: Warner Valley, Butte Lake, Juniper Lake, and Summit Lake. Trails may be snow-covered into July, and weather can change rapidly. Some trails within the 2021 Dixie Fire footprint remain affected; check current conditions and be prepared for burned area hazards.

Directions

Access Lassen's backcountry from four primary trailheads: Warner Valley, Butte Lake, Juniper Lake, and Summit Lake. Park headquarters is at 38050 Highway 36 East, Mineral, CA 96063. Wilderness permits must be obtained online via Recreation.gov before arrival; no in-person permits are issued.