Summit Lake South
4.3984 reviewsLASSEN VOLCANIC NP P.O.BOX 100 MINERAL, CA 96063 USA
Summit Lake South
$15.00 - $22.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$22.00
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
Peak season rates are $22 per night for all sites (standard and tent-only). During non-peak season, rates drop to $15 per night. Displayed rates exclude additional fees such as reservation fees.
About this campground
Discover your perfect mountain retreat at Summit Lake South Campground, where tranquility meets adventure at 6,700 feet in the heart of Lassen Volcanic National Park. This hidden gem offers a peaceful escape from the crowds while keeping you close to crystalline Summit Lake and miles of scenic hiking trails. Wake up to crisp mountain air, spend your days exploring volcanic wonders, and wind down with evening programs at the amphitheater. Well-appointed with vault toilets, fresh drinking water, bear-proof lockers, and campfire rings, this campground provides all the essentials for an unforgettable wilderness experience without sacrificing comfort.
Summit Lake South offers diverse camping options, including tent-only areas, RV sites, and group camping. Primitive camping is available in the tent-only loop.
Historical SignificanceCamp in the shadow of geological history at Lassen Volcanic National Park, home to the southernmost active volcano in the majestic Cascade Range. This dynamic landscape tells a story millions of years in the making, where Earth's powerful forces continue to shape the terrain beneath your feet. Recent chapters include the park's remarkable recovery from the 2021 Dixie Fire, offering visitors a unique opportunity to witness nature's resilience and the fascinating process of ecological regeneration firsthand.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the magic of high-altitude camping where summer days bring gentle warmth and star-filled nights remind you to pack that extra layer. At over 6,000 feet, evening temperatures can dip surprisingly low even in July and August, creating perfect conditions for cozy campfire gatherings. Early season visitors should note that lingering snowmelt and winter's heavy snowpack may affect access and conditions well into late spring, adding an element of alpine adventure to your stay.
ElevationPerched at 6,700 feet above sea level, Summit Lake South places you in true mountain territory where the air is crisp, the views are endless, and the night sky seems close enough to touch. This elevated paradise means cooler temperatures year-round – perfect for escaping summer heat, though you'll want to pack warm sleeping gear for those refreshingly chilly mountain nights that make morning coffee taste even better.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape that reads like a geology textbook come to life. From your campsite, gaze upon the imposing silhouette of Lassen Peak while the serene waters of Summit Lake mirror the surrounding alpine forests. Venture out to witness the otherworldly hydrothermal features of Bumpass Hell, where the Earth bubbles and steams in a dramatic display of volcanic activity. The surrounding terrain weaves together pristine alpine meadows with areas touched by wildfire, creating a compelling mosaic that showcases both nature's power and its remarkable ability to heal and transform.
Geological RegionSet up camp at the extraordinary crossroads where three of California's major mountain ranges converge. Summit Lake South Campground sits at the meeting point of the volcanic Cascade Mountains, the granite peaks of the Sierra Nevada, and the expansive Great Basin, creating a geological wonderland unlike anywhere else. This unique location treats visitors to an incredible diversity of volcanic features – from bubbling mud pots and hissing steam vents to over 300 volcanic domes that pepper the landscape, each one a testament to the powerful forces that continue to shape this remarkable corner of the world.
Campsite details
AccessibilityVault toilets and potable water facilities are available, but specific details regarding accessibility for individuals with disabilities are not provided.
Sites SizeSite sizes vary, with some accommodating multiple tents and offering spacious layouts. Others are described as cramped or sloped.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site; some offer seclusion and shade, while others are exposed and closely spaced.
Total Campsites234040 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid sites with steep parking spaces (e.g., E06) and those with little shade (e.g., E23). Sites near the lake, such as C08 and C09, offer better views and proximity to water.
Best CampsitesSome user reviews particularly recommend Loop D for its quiet ambiance and Loop C for its proximity to Summit Lake and scenic trails.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 7 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Campsites allow up to 6 people, 3 tents, and 2 vehicles per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized into loops (e.g., Loop C, Loop D). Loop D operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Site sizes vary, with some offering more privacy than others.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations from June 27 to September 22, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov, including its app and website.
Walk-in AvailabilityLoop D offers exclusively first-come, first-served sites. Many reviews noted that reserved sites often remain vacant, limiting availability for walk-up campers.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the arrival date with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (after midnight the day before check-in) forfeit the first night's recreation fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Summit Lake South Campground provides access to a wealth of recreational activities, including hiking, swimming, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Additionally, cultural and educational programs are occasionally presented at an amphitheater within the facility.
Hiking
Hiking trails abound around Summit Lake South, including the Cluster Lakes loop trail, popular among birders. The campground is conveniently located near the Lassen Peak Trail and is within 10 miles of the hydrothermal area, Bumpass Hell. Echo Lake and Twin Lakes trails are highly recommended by reviewers.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available at Summit Lake, where the tranquil waters are conducive to catching local fish species.Swimming
Swimming is popular at Summit Lake, especially after hikes, as noted by multiple reviewers. The lake is described as refreshing but not too cold.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings include deer and occasionally bears, as noted by campers. One review recounts a bear sighting near the meadow.Cultural and Educational Programs
Educational programs are occasionally presented at the amphitheater within the facility, although specific topics and schedules are not detailed.Winter Activities
Winter-specific activities are not detailed, but heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures can be expected based on weather data.Water Sports
Water sports such as paddleboarding are mentioned by campers, particularly in reviews describing Summit Lake as a great spot for such activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are restricted to designated fire rings. Campers are advised not to use green wood, as it produces smoke.
- Quiet hours are enforced during nighttime, reported as dark and peaceful by campers.
Hazards
General hazardsCampers should be aware of wildlife such as bears and occasional mountain lions. Vault toilets lack lighting, so campers should bring headlamps.
Active alertsPost-2021 Dixie Fire recovery efforts are visible in certain parts of the campground, with burnt zones near Summit Lake.
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
Emergency services are accessible in Mineral, CA, which is the nearest town. Official emergency services, including ranger stations, are located within the park.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 27, 2025 - September 8, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is frequent, and dumpsters are located near the bathrooms. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located adjacent to Summit Lake, which is suitable for swimming, paddleboarding, and fishing. Nearby trails also lead to other water features like Echo Lake and Kings Creek.
Common complaintsSome visitors have pointed out issues with site layout, including sloped parking spaces, small site sizes, and lack of overall privacy. Other complaints target noisy neighbors and light pollution.
HostHosts are described as friendly and informative, often patrolling the area to maintain rules and quiet hours.
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.
The campground is accessible via paved roads. Some user reviews noted concerns about seasonal conditions, especially runoff from snowmelt, which can impact parking areas and site slopes.Nearby places
Nearby cities include Redding (approximately 48 miles north, about 1 hour drive) and Susanville (approximately 60 miles southeast, about 1.5 hours drive).
Nearby supplies
The nearest supplies can be found at Manzanita Lake Campground Store, located approximately 14 miles north of Summit Lake South on the main park road. It provides soft-serve ice cream, basic camping supplies, and firewood. Fuel is available in nearby towns like Redding or Susanville.
Camper Reviews
4.4
84 reviews
Summit Lake South is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally highlight Summit Lake South Campground's beautiful location, cleanliness, proximity to trails, and tranquility. Complaints center on sloped campsites, lack of showers, and crowded conditions in certain loops.
Review Summaries
Based on 84 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean vault toilets, proximity to Summit Lake, numerous hiking trails, and excellent stargazing opportunities.
Based on 84 reviewsCommon Concerns
Issues raised by users include sloped and exposed campsites, lack of privacy, and noisy neighbors at some sites. The absence of showers and limited availability of shaded sites are noted.
Based on 84 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing extra warm clothing for chilly nights, headlamps for navigating dark vault toilets, and ample firewood. Swimming in the lake and hiking Echo Lake trails are highly...
Based on 84 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews are overwhelmingly positive due to favorable weather and open trails. Winter camping is not detailed in reviews but heavy snowfall could limit access and activities.
Based on 84 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Summit Lake South is clean, quiet, and beautiful!" "Vault toilets were clean, running water was close to the sites." "The campsites were well-positioned, providing privacy but close to the lake and...
Based on 84 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site C10 and C11 received criticism for being small and sloped. Site D12 was praised for cleanliness and proximity to trails.
Based on 84 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are limited, and no specific reviews address experiences of individuals with disabilities.
Based on 84 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Complaints about the pet policy were common; dogs are not allowed on trails or in the lake. "How can dogs not be allowed in wilderness areas?"
Based on 84 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025