Summit Lake North
4.4098 reviewsLASSEN VOLCANIC NP P.O.BOX 100, MINERAL, CA 96063, USA
Summit Lake North
$15.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
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
Fees range from $15 (during dry camping when water is unavailable) to $24 during peak season. Discounts of 50% apply to Interagency Senior and Lifetime Pass holders. Late cancellation fees include a $10 cancellation charge and forfeiting the first night’s recreation use fee.
About this campground
Perched beside the crystalline waters of Summit Lake, this spectacular campground in Lassen Volcanic National Park offers adventurers a gateway to one of California's most dramatic volcanic landscapes. Loops A and B nestle among towering conifers, providing campers with modern amenities including flush toilets and potable water, while maintaining that authentic wilderness feel. Days here begin with sunrise reflections on the lake and end with starlit skies, with countless hiking trails beckoning explorers to discover hidden waterfalls, volcanic wonders, and alpine meadows. The inviting swimming area at Summit Lake provides the perfect respite after a day of mountain adventures.
Summit Lake North Campground offers standard nonelectric sites and tent-only nonelectric sites. It is primarily geared toward traditional camping experiences.
Historical SignificanceThis campground serves as your basecamp within Lassen Volcanic National Park, a landscape that tells the explosive story of Earth's creation. Here, ancient volcanic forces have sculpted a terrain unlike anywhere else in California, creating a living laboratory of geological wonders. The park preserves not just rocks and peaks, but millennia of ecological adaptation and recovery, where life has learned to thrive in the shadow of sleeping giants.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this high-altitude paradise into a temperate haven, with daytime temperatures climbing to a comfortable 65-81°F—ideal for hiking and swimming. As darkness falls, the mountain air cools dramatically to 26-36°F, creating perfect sleeping weather under a blanket of stars. While Lassen's dramatic peaks hold their snow crowns well into July, the campground itself emerges snow-free by June, extending your camping season in this alpine wonderland.
ElevationAt 6,700 feet above sea level, Summit Lake North Campground places you firmly in the alpine zone, where the air is crisp, the stars seem close enough to touch, and mountain meadows burst with wildflowers. This elevation gifts campers with naturally air-conditioned summers and access to unique high-altitude ecosystems where you might spot Clark's nutcrackers caching pine seeds or hear the haunting call of a mountain quail echoing across the peaks.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to a landscape that seems lifted from a photographer's dream—dense conifer forests frame mirror-like alpine lakes, while the imposing silhouette of 10,457-foot Lassen Peak dominates the horizon. The campground serves as your launching point for the enchanting Cluster Lakes loop trail, where a chain of pristine mountain lakes reflects the surrounding peaks. Nearby, the Earth's inner fire reveals itself through bubbling mud pots and hissing fumaroles, reminding visitors that this seemingly peaceful wilderness sits atop one of the world's largest plug dome volcanoes.
Geological RegionSummit Lake North Campground occupies one of California's most geologically fascinating crossroads, where three major mountain systems converge. Here, the volcanic Cascade Mountains meet the granite Sierra Nevada and the ancient floor of the Great Basin, creating an extraordinary tapestry of landscapes. This unique junction has produced an ecosystem found nowhere else—where volcanic soils nurture mountain hemlock forests, crystal-clear lakes fill ancient craters, and the Earth's geothermal heartbeat pulses just beneath your feet.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWheelchair-accessible restrooms are available, and campsite A-1 is designated as accessible. However, there are no ADA-specific campsites beyond A-1.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size; some reviewers found them spacious, while others noted limitations. For example, site B17 was described as having privacy on three sides.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies significantly across sites. User reviews mentioned that some sites feel cramped and close to neighbors, while a few outer-loop sites provide better privacy.
Total Campsites46 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid campsites near day-use parking areas to reduce disturbances. Choose outer-edge sites for more privacy.
Best CampsitesOuter perimeter sites of Loop A are described as better, offering privacy and scenic views. Site A12 was noted as spacious and private.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out ends at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 7 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 6 people per site.
Groups
There are no designated group camping sites explicitly mentioned for Summit Lake North.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of Loops A and B. Sites are arranged closely, with some sharing parking pads. Outer sites offer more privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from June 27th to September 8th. Closed from September 24th through June 26th due to snow.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov website, app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are by reservation only. No walk-up or first-come-first-served availability.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made before arrival incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (less than 24 hours) also forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. Reservations can be modified for a $10 change fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Summit Lake North Campground is praised for its proximity to outdoor activities, including hiking, swimming, and wildlife viewing. The campground is centrally located within Lassen Volcanic National Park, making it a convenient base for exploring the park's attractions.
Hiking
The campground is located near one of the park's major trailheads, including the Cluster Lakes loop trail, which offers views of alpine lakes and excellent birdwatching opportunities. Multiple reviewers have highlighted the ease of accessing trails directly from the campground.Swimming
Swimming in Summit Lake is common and well-reviewed. According to user feedback, the lake is shallow at the shore, making it ideal for children. One camper noted, "The Lake is clean and not deep. It's perfect for those rugrats that want to venture out on a kayak for the first time or go swimming."Boating
Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular in Summit Lake. One reviewer stated, "Summit Lake is a fabulous lake for swimming and kayaking."Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a noted feature of the campground. A user reported seeing a bear and deer during their stay.Cultural and Educational Programs
Educational programs are presented at an amphitheater within the campground. Specific topics are not mentioned, but visitors often enjoy ranger talks.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not applicable as the campground is closed during winter months.Water Sports
Kayaking and paddleboarding activities are popular in Summit Lake, as noted by reviewers who describe the lake as ideal for beginners.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fires allowed only in designated grates. Gathering downed wood up to 4 inches in diameter within 30 feet of roads is permitted. Chainsaws are prohibited.
- Quiet hours are specified, but enforcement is inconsistent according to reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include bears, wildlife habituated to humans, and a nearby pond that may attract mosquitoes during late summer.
Active alertsPortions of the Lassen National Park Highway are closed due to snow and plowing operations, and the Bumpass Hell Trail is seasonally closed due to snow hazards.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 30%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.4 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
The nearest emergency services include the Summit Lake Ranger Station (approximately 1/4 mile from the campground) for minor emergencies. For more critical needs, Mineral or Redding hospitals and emergency facilities should be consulted.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 27th to September 8th annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling bins are available seasonally. One camper described, "There were bins for trash and recycling, and they accepted all recycling (not just bottles and cans)."
Proximity to water featuresWithin walking distance to Summit Lake, which is suitable for swimming, kayaking, and birdwatching.
Common complaintsCampsites are noted to be close together, lacking privacy. Bathrooms sometimes lacked maintenance during busy periods. Some sites were sloped or had pooling water issues.
HostCampground host is located approximately 1/2 mile north at Summit Lake Trailhead.
Campground Map
LASSEN VOLCANIC NP P.O.BOX 100, MINERAL, CA 96063, USA
Driving directionsFrom Redding, California take State Highway 44 east approximately 48 miles to the Manzanita Lake entrance of the park. The campground is 14 miles south of the entrance on the main park road.
Summit Lake North Campground is located on the main road through Lassen Volcanic National Park, offering paved access. However, seasonal closures affect road accessibility, such as Hwy 89 being closed at Bumpass Hell parking area and Devastated Area due to snow and plowing operations.Nearby places
Redding (48 miles, approximately 1-hour drive), Mineral (14 miles south of the park entrance, approximately 20-minute drive).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies can be found at the Manzanita Lake area, 14 miles north of the campground, including firewood, basic groceries, and camping essentials.
Camper Reviews
4.4
98 reviews
Summit Lake North is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Summit Lake North are generally positive, emphasizing the campground's scenic beauty, clean facilities, and proximity to park attractions. Some negative aspects include complaints about campsite layout and maintenance issues during busy periods.
Review Summaries
Based on 98 reviews
What Campers Love
- Clean and well-maintained bathrooms
- Proximity to Summit Lake and hiking trails
- Scenic and serene environment
- User-friendly amenities like bear lockers and dishwashing stations
Based on 98 reviewsCommon Concerns
- Campsites are close together, leading to limited privacy
- Maintenance issues with restrooms during busy weekends
- Campsites on sloped terrain or with limited tent space
Based on 98 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
- Choose outer-loop sites for more privacy
- Keep food secured in bear lockers
- Consider camping during off-peak periods for a quieter experience
- Bring your own firewood, as it is not sold on-site
Based on 98 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summit Lake North is most popular during peak summer months when the lake is warm and trails are easily accessible. Winter closures limit camping opportunities.
Based on 98 reviewsCamper Quotes
- "Bathrooms were excellent with actual flushers." - James G.
- "The campsites are close enough together that you should anticipate people walking through your campsite." - Sarah Z.
- "Summit Lake is...
Based on 98 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site A12 is described as large and private but lacking parking space. Site B17 has privacy on three sides but is next to a pond, which may attract mosquitoes.
Based on 98 reviewsAccessibility Features
Site A-1 is wheelchair-accessible and all restrooms are ADA-compliant. No additional accessibility features are noted.
Based on 98 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. One review mentioned concerns about campers bringing large dogs into backcountry trails illegally.
Based on 98 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025