Juniper Lake Group
4.068 reviewsPO BOX 100 C/O LASSEN VOL NP, MINERAL, CA 96063, USA
Juniper Lake Group
$30.00 - $30.00 / 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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Entrance fee is $30.00 per vehicle. Campers must have a valid entrance permit/pass before camping.
About this campground
Escape to the pristine wilderness of Juniper Lake Group Campground, where canvas tents replace concrete walls and the eastern shore of crystalline Juniper Lake serves as your backyard. Tucked away in the remote southeastern corner of Lassen Volcanic National Park, this rustic tent-only retreat offers an authentic back-to-nature experience with jaw-dropping views of mighty Lassen Peak rising above the forest canopy. Here, the volcano that shapes this landscape becomes your constant companion, reminding you that you're camping in one of nature's most dynamic environments.
Juniper Lake Group Campground is a tent-only facility offering two group sites. It is connected to the broader Juniper Lake Campground, which operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape shaped by fire and time, where Lassen Peak stands as the southernmost sentinel in the Cascade's chain of active volcanoes. This sleeping giant made headlines as the most recent Cascade volcano to erupt before Mount Saint Helens stole the spotlight in 1980, leaving behind a terrain that tells the story of Earth's raw power. Adventure seekers can follow the Mount Harkness Trail to discover a historic fire tower, a relic from the days when eagle-eyed watchers scanned these peaks for signs of wildfire, now offering panoramic views that stretch across volcanic valleys and pristine wilderness.
Weather and SeasonsMother Nature keeps campers on their toes at Juniper Lake, where weather patterns shift as dramatically as the volcanic landscape itself. While heavy snowfall can transform the area into a winter wonderland during certain weeks, patient adventurers are rewarded with spectacular sunny stretches that create perfect camping conditions. These golden periods of moderate temperatures and clear skies offer the ideal window to experience this high-altitude paradise, though the mountain's mercurial moods mean packing layers is always wise.
ElevationPerched at a breathtaking 6,800 feet above sea level, Juniper Lake Group Campground places you firmly in the thin-air territory where alpine meadows meet volcanic peaks. This lofty elevation brings crisp mountain air, star-filled nights that seem close enough to touch, and the kind of silence that only exists far above the bustle of civilization.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to a landscape that feels alive beneath your feet, where volcanic forces continue their ancient work through bubbling mud pots and hissing steam vents. The campground sits at the heart of a natural wonderland featuring active volcanic domes and mesmerizing hydrothermal features that paint the earth in otherworldly colors. This geothermal activity nourishes an explosion of life – over 700 species of flowering plants carpet the meadows and forest floors in seasonal displays, while 250 species of vertebrates call this volcanic Eden home. From delicate wildflowers to soaring eagles, every corner reveals nature's resilience in the face of volcanic power.
Geological RegionExperience camping at the crossroads of three great mountain systems, where the Cascade Mountains, Sierra Nevada, and Great Basin converge in a spectacular geological symphony. Lassen Volcanic National Park showcases Earth's fiery personality through its collection of active volcanic domes, steaming fumaroles, and colorful hydrothermal features that bubble and hiss with primordial energy. The campground's position offers front-row seats to this geological theater, with views of Lassen Peak – the park's volcanic star – serving as a constant reminder that you're sleeping on ground that pulses with the planet's inner fire. This unique location makes Juniper Lake one of the few places where you can witness the raw forces that continue to shape the American West.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features were mentioned in official sources or user reviews.
Sites SizeEach group site accommodates a minimum of 10 and a maximum of 15 persons with space for two licensed vehicles per site.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews provide mixed feedback on privacy. One review states, 'Sites farther away from the lake are more secluded,' while another mentions that 'Campsites are really close together and campground is loud.'
Total Campsites19 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites closer to the lake offer better views and are more serene, whereas sites farther away might provide more privacy.
Best CampsitesSome reviewers mentioned spacious campsites and those near the lake being particularly picturesque. No specific site numbers were provided.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay: 7 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum 15 persons per site.
Groups
The group sites accommodate 10-15 persons and allow two licensed vehicles per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 19 first-come, first-served sites and two reservable group sites in a tent-only arrangement.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at Recreation.gov online or via their contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityGroup sites are reservable, but the non-group sites at Juniper Lake Campground are first-come, first-served.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the date of arrival. A $10 cancellation fee applies, along with withholding of any previous fees. Late cancellations (less than 14 days prior for group sites) also forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. On-site personnel may not assist on the day of reservation.
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
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Juniper Lake Group Campground offers a variety of activities including hiking, swimming, kayaking, and canoeing. The Mount Harkness Trail leads to a historic fire tower and provides breathtaking views. Juniper Lake is popular for non-motorized water activities and swimming. Additional recreational opportunities include picnicking and camping.
Hiking
Trailheads for Horseshoe Lake, Snag Lake, and the interior of Lassen Volcanic National Park are accessible from the campground. The Mount Harkness Trail ascends to a historic fire tower that is still in use.Swimming
Juniper Lake is described as a popular swimming spot. User reviews state, 'The lake is great for swimming.'Boating
Non-motorized boating such as canoeing and kayaking is permitted on Juniper Lake. User reviews suggest bringing kayaks to enjoy the lake.Wildlife viewing
The campground is part of Lassen Volcanic National Park, which boasts 250 vertebrate species, including birds, mammals, reptiles, and fish. This diverse habitat provides ample opportunities for wildlife viewing.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities mentioned, though the elevation and location may indicate potential for snow-related recreation.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing are supported on Juniper Lake, which prohibits motorized boating.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- No specific fire policies mentioned in the source materials.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include the rough, narrow road access and the lack of drinking water at the site.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 30%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Mainly clear
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
Closest emergency services are likely in Chester (~13 miles away), which includes a fire station. Additional emergency services may be available in Mineral (~70 miles).
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo information about trash or recycling facilities was provided.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is situated along the eastern shore of Juniper Lake, a popular spot for swimming, kayaking, and canoeing.
Common complaintsSome reviewers highlighted road conditions ('quite long and bumpy and terrible with a car that isn’t 4-wheel drive') and noise at the campsite.
Campground Map
PO BOX 100 C/O LASSEN VOL NP, MINERAL, CA 96063, USA
Driving directionsFrom the Red Bluff (I.5), drive east on state HWY 36 approximately 70 miles to Chester. Turn left at fire station immediately after crossing Feather River Bridge (watch for National Park Service sign on right) continue approximately 13 miles follow signs to Juniper Lake Campground and Group Campsite Area. Campground access is via paved and dirt road, last 6 miles is narrow, rough and dusty dirt road.
The campground access involves a 13-mile road split between seven miles of gravel and six miles of roughly paved road. The final stretch is narrow, rough, and dusty dirt road. Reviews suggest that 4-wheel drive is recommended for the journey, although some users, like Aldrich Ong in their review, mentioned successfully traveling in a Prius, albeit with difficulty.Nearby places
Red Bluff: ~70 miles (~1.5 hours)
Chester: ~13 miles (~20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are likely in Chester (~13 miles away), including groceries, fuel, and other essentials.
Camper Reviews
4.1
8 reviews
Juniper Lake Group is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Juniper Lake Group Campground highlight its natural beauty, proximity to hiking trails, and access to Juniper Lake for water activities. The road access is frequently noted as challenging, with some reviewers suggesting AWD vehicles.
Review Summaries
Based on 8 reviews
What Campers Love
The lake's proximity and suitability for swimming and kayaking are praised. One review states, 'Bring your swim suit and kayaks.' Another user said, 'We loved it. Right next to a beautiful creek.'...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The rough and dusty road leading to the campground is a recurring issue noted by users. One reviewer commented, 'Luckily we survived with our Prius, but it was heart pounding. AWD is recommended.'...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own potable water as none is available on-site. Plan for a challenging drive, with AWD recommended. Pack swimwear and kayaks to enjoy the lake.
Based on 8 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that the campground and lake are popular during the warmer months for swimming and hiking. Winter accessibility and activities are not detailed.
Based on 8 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The dirt road to the campsite is quite long and bumpy and terrible with a car that isn’t 4 wheel drive.' 2. 'Lake is clean and beautiful.' 3. 'Sites farther away from the lake are more secluded.'...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site numbers within the group campground were referenced in user reviews.
Based on 8 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressed accessibility features.
Based on 8 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are permitted but must be on a 6-foot leash, not left unattended, and are prohibited on park trails.
Based on 8 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025