Butte Lake Group
4.3244 reviewsLASSEN VOLCANIC NP PO BOX 100 MINERAL, CA 96063
Butte Lake Group
$35.00 - $62.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$62.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary based on season: $62 during peak season (May 30 to September 1, 2025) and $35 during non-peak season (September 2 to October 13, 2025). An entrance fee of $30 per vehicle is also required.
About this campground
Nestled in the dramatic northeastern corner of Lassen Volcanic National Park, Butte Lake Group Campground beckons adventurers to experience camping at 6,100 feet where volcanic wilderness meets pristine mountain waters. This group-friendly destination serves as your basecamp for exploring the crystalline waters of Butte Lake, where kayakers glide across mirror-like surfaces and anglers cast lines into depths that hold both fish and volcanic secrets. Modern amenities blend seamlessly with the wild landscape—flush toilets welcome summer visitors, while sturdy vault facilities ensure year-round comfort for those seeking solitude in the shoulder seasons.
The Butte Lake Group Campground caters primarily to group camping and tent camping. It is ideal for visitors seeking a remote and natural camping experience without hookups.
Historical SignificanceYou're camping in the shadow of geological greatness at Lassen National Park, home to the southernmost active volcano in the Cascade Range. This living laboratory of volcanic forces has shaped not just the landscape but the very story of the American West. Lassen Peak stands as a testament to the Earth's raw power, its volcanic legacy written in every cinder cone, every lava flow, and every steaming fumarole that dots this remarkable park.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this high-altitude haven into a sun-drenched paradise where warm days invite endless exploration and cool nights demand cozy campfires. As autumn arrives, the landscape shifts to a hiker's dream—crisp, dry air carries the scent of pine while comfortable temperatures make every trail irresistible. Winter dramatically reimagines the terrain, blanketing the volcanic landscape in deep snow and wrapping the forest in a hushed, frozen beauty that rewards the hardy souls who venture here with unparalleled solitude.
ElevationPerched at 6,100 feet above sea level, this mountain sanctuary offers a refreshing escape from lowland heat, where the air carries a crisp clarity that sharpens every view and deepens every breath. The elevation creates a natural air conditioning system that keeps summer days pleasantly cool, though visitors should pace themselves as they adjust to the thinner atmosphere. Here, you'll sleep closer to the stars and wake to sunrises that paint the volcanic peaks in shades of gold and rose.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering Ponderosa pines stand sentinel over a landscape born of fire and shaped by time, their vanilla-scented bark and emerald needles softening the dramatic volcanic canvas. Butte Lake itself tells an ancient story—its waters lap against jet-black lava flows that once poured molten into the basin, creating a striking shoreline that captivates photographers and paddlers alike. Venture beyond camp to discover the otherworldly Painted Dunes, where mineral deposits have created a natural masterpiece, or challenge yourself on the Cinder Cone Trail, where each step takes you deeper into a volcanic wonderland of rust-red cinders and panoramic vistas.
Geological RegionThis extraordinary campground sits at the heart of Lassen Volcanic National Park's geological theater, where the forces that built the Cascade Range continue their ancient performance. The volcanic soils beneath your feet nurture the stately Ponderosa pines while telling the story of eruptions past. Most dramatically, the black lava flows that reach into Butte Lake create a rare intersection of fire and water—a photographer's dream and a geologist's classroom. Every rock formation, from the smallest cinder to the massive lava beds, speaks to the powerful forces that continue to shape this dynamic landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility information is limited. Some sites are described as spacious, but there is no detailed description of features for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeGroup campsites are large and can accommodate up to 25 people and six vehicles, with room for multiple tents.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies significantly among sites. Some reviews mentioned tightly packed sites with minimal privacy, while others highlighted spacious layouts.
Total Campsites100 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites farther from large group areas for quieter experiences. Sites near the lake are noted for easy access to water activities.
Best CampsitesGroup sites like Loop B near Butte Lake are praised for spaciousness and proximity to recreational areas.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
No specific check-in time is provided.
Check-out
No specific check-out time is provided.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Group sites accommodate 10-25 people per reservation.
Groups
Group sites accommodate a minimum of 10 and a maximum of 25 persons, with space for six licensed vehicles. Each site features multiple tables and fire rings.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutLocated at the north end of Loop B and adjacent to Butte Lake Campground, the area is well-organized but remarked upon as dusty by users.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 30 to October 13 annually for reservations. Flush toilets and running water are only available during summer.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability is noted during off-peak times. Reviewers mentioned lucking out on walk-up reservations.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before scheduled arrival for $10. Late cancellations (within 14 days for group sites) incur additional fees including forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a diverse range of activities including hiking, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, swimming, and wildlife viewing. The Cinder Cone Trail is a highlight and offers breathtaking views of the Painted Dunes and surrounding volcanic landscape.
Hiking
Hiking trails surround the campground, featuring popular routes like the Cinder Cone Trail and paths to Snag Lake and Bathtub Lake. Trails vary in difficulty, with the Cinder Cone hike described as steep but rewarding.Fishing
Trout fishing is popular at Butte Lake, which features abundant wild trout ('adipose fin intact') according to one user review. Fishing conditions can vary based on moon phases and other factors.Swimming
Swimming areas are accessible at Butte Lake, described as serene and family-friendly. Some users noted limited beach areas.Boating
Non-motorized boating such as kayaking and paddleboarding is permitted on Butte Lake, which features rocky shores and black lava flows for exploration.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with users reporting sightings of bears near the lake. The park hosts diverse flora and fauna, including 700 species of flowering plants and 250 vertebrate species.Beach activities
Limited beach areas were noted by users, but they were still enjoyable for relaxation and proximity to the lake.Winter Activities
The campground does not provide winter-specific activities.Water Sports
Water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are popular and well-supported by the campground's boat launch.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted using downed wood only, not live trees.
- Quiet hours are enforced starting at 10 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife such as bears may be present; bear lockers are provided. Dust and ash from volcanic soils can cause respiratory discomfort for some visitors.
Active alertsNo active alerts were noted in source content.
Weather forecast
61
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 41%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
The nearest emergency services are in Mineral, CA, which hosts ranger stations and basic facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 30 to September 1, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash bins with locking covers and recycling facilities are available throughout the campground. Users appreciated the convenience of these facilities.
Proximity to water featuresLocated within walking distance of Butte Lake, which is popular for fishing, swimming, and kayaking.
Common complaintsThe rough six-mile dirt road is frequently criticized by reviewers. Dustiness and proximity of some sites are other common concerns. Noise from group campsites and bugs during summer were also mentioned.
HostHosts Jon and Cathy Little are described as extremely helpful and friendly. They assist with various on-site needs.
Campground Map
LASSEN VOLCANIC NP PO BOX 100 MINERAL, CA 96063
Driving directionsFrom Redding, drive 63 miles east on state highway 44 to Old Station. From intersection of state highway 89 and 44, continue east on state highway 44 for 11 miles. Watch for sign to Butte Lake Campground. Turn right and continue for 6 miles on a rough gravel road.
Access involves traveling on a six-mile gravel road, which is described as rough and dusty. Several reviewers noted the road's difficulty and mentioned that it can take 20 to 30 minutes to navigate.Nearby places
Redding (63 miles east), Old Station (6 miles from the campground entrance), Chester (approximately 40 miles).
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be acquired in Chester, CA, or Old Station, CA. Campers are advised to bring water if camping after mid-September as running water is turned off during the off-season.
Camper Reviews
4.3
44 reviews
Butte Lake Group is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the remote and serene environment of Butte Lake Group Campground, emphasizing its proximity to hiking trails and the lake. However, issues such as the rough gravel road, dust, and bugs were frequently mentioned.
Review Summaries
Based on 44 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the peaceful atmosphere, cleanliness of restrooms, spacious campsites, and proximity to Butte Lake and Cinder Cone Trail. Many appreciated the camp hosts' friendliness and helpfulness.
Based on 44 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include the six-mile gravel road, described as dusty and rough, limited privacy between campsites, and the prevalence of bugs and bees. Some users also noted the lack of running...
Based on 44 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray and citronella candles due to bugs. Consider using a 4-wheel drive vehicle for the gravel road. Carry sufficient drinking water during off-season stays and check group campsite...
Based on 44 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews were predominantly positive, focusing on the availability of running water, flush toilets, and lake access. Off-season reviews highlighted the absence of running water and increased...
Based on 44 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Butte Lake is a wonderful gem of Lassen Volcanic National Park.' - direwolf58
2. 'Pretty descent campgrounds. Each spot has a fire ring, garbage bins with locking cover, and a picnic table.' -...
Based on 44 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Group sites received mixed reviews. While some users appreciated their spaciousness, others noted unclear boundaries and minimal privacy.
Based on 44 reviewsAccessibility Features
Few reviews specifically addressed accessibility, though some users noted spacious campsite layouts.
Based on 44 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed in campsites but not on trails or in the water. Users noted strict enforcement of pet rules by camp hosts.
Based on 44 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025