Nestled in northeastern California, Lassen Volcanic National Park is a remarkable landscape where bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, pristine glacial lakes, and snow-capped volcanic peaks come together in one unforgettable destination. Located in Mineral, California, this dynamic park is home to Lassen Peak—one of the few volcanoes in the world where all four types of volcanoes can be found. Visitors can explore hydrothermal areas, hiking trails, scenic drives, and rich cultural history across more than 100,000 acres of preserved wilderness.

Recommended For

Lassen is perfect for:

  • Geology lovers—interested in volcanoes, hydrothermal activity, and seismic history
  • Nature photographers—drawn to wildflower meadows, alpine lakes, and waterfalls
  • Hikers and campers—with miles of trails and diverse landscapes to explore
  • Families and youth groups—thanks to educational camps, museums, and dark sky programming

Why Visit Lassen Volcanic?

  • Explore bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and boiling lakes in the park’s hydrothermal zones
  • Hike to Lassen Peak, wander wildflower-filled meadows, or fish in glacial lakes
  • Visit historic lodges and Native American sites with deep cultural significance
  • Experience pristine stargazing during the annual Lassen Dark Sky Festival

Geothermal and Volcanic Activity

  • Active hydrothermal zones are best experienced along:
    • Sulphur Works Trail
    • Devil’s Kitchen Trail
    • Bumpass Hell Trail
  • Boardwalks keep visitors safe from thin crust and boiling features below
  • Lassen Peak is still active; last major eruption was between 1675 and 1700

Lakes and Waterfalls

  • Boiling Springs Lake – 125°F waters near Warner Valley Campground
  • Cold Boiling Lake – Named for gas bubbles rising through the water
  • Mill Creek Falls – Tallest waterfall in the park at 75 feet
  • Lake Helen – A glacial lake at 8,200 feet, named after Lassen’s first woman summiter

Camping and Lodging

  • Nine campgrounds are located across the park’s 150 miles of trails
  • Drakesbad Guest Ranch – A historic Warner Valley lodge with horseback tours
  • Manzanita Lake Cabins – 20 rustic cabins with optional Camper’s Amenity Package

Visitor Centers and Museums

  • Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center – Open year-round; includes a café, bookstore, and geology film
  • Loomis Museum – Adjacent to Manzanita Lake; features historical exhibits and a ranger auditorium

History and Cultural Significance

  • Traditional lands of the Atsugew, Maidu, Yana, and Yahi tribes
  • Home to Native artifacts and cultural displays at Loomis Museum
  • Peter Lassen, a Danish blacksmith, played a role in settlement during the Gold Rush

Park Establishment and Preservation

  • 1916 eruption led to national park designation from former national monument status
  • The Lassen Volcanic Wilderness was created in 1972 to preserve undeveloped park areas

Scenic Drives and Auto Tours

  • A 30-mile highway winds through park highlights with pull-outs and scenic overlooks
  • Road guides are available at the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center and Loomis Museum

Special Experiences and Events

  • Horseback tours available at Drakesbad Guest Ranch for day and overnight guests
  • Lassen Association’s Field Seminar Program offers classes in photography, painting, and hiking

Stargazing and Astronomy

  • Designated dark sky park offering spectacular night views
  • Lassen Dark Sky Festival held each August includes:
    • Stargazing workshops
    • Junior Ranger astronomy activities
    • Talks by NASA astronomers and the International Dark Sky Association

Youth Programs

  • Volcano Adventure Camp – A camping facility offering educational programs for youth groups

Planning Your Visit

  • Location: Mineral, CA 96063
  • Phone: 530-595-4480
  • Check official website for road conditions, campground reservations, and seasonal closures

Plan Your Trip