Big Pine Campground
4.7313 reviews1 mile south of Old Station on State Route 44/89
Big Pine Campground
$12.00 - $12.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$12.00
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
Campsite fees are $12/night for single sites and $5/night for each additional vehicle. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Pass holders receive a 50% discount (only for the campsite occupied by the pass holder). Payment must be made in cash or check.
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About this campground
Discover your perfect mountain retreat at Big Pine Campground, where 19 thoughtfully spaced campsites await beneath a canopy of towering Jeffrey pines. This intimate single-loop campground hugs the banks of crystalline Hat Creek, offering each site a harmonious blend of privacy and natural beauty. Gather around your fire ring as evening falls, or fire up the barbecue for a memorable outdoor feast while the gentle sounds of the creek provide nature's soundtrack to your adventure.
Big Pine Campground is designed for a variety of camping preferences, from basic tent camping to accommodating smaller RVs within the constraints of its paved parking aprons.
Historical SignificanceCamp in the shadow of geological history, where Hat Creek begins its journey from the volcanic slopes of Lassen Peak. This storied waterway has carved its path through centuries of volcanic activity, creating a landscape rich with natural wonders. Adventure seekers can explore the mysterious Subway Cave, a fascinating lava tube, or venture into the dramatic volcanic landscapes of nearby Lassen Volcanic National Park, where the Earth's fiery past meets pristine wilderness.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the refreshing mountain climate where crisp morning breezes descend from mighty Lassen Peak, awakening campers to pristine alpine air. Summer days warm to a comfortable 77°F, perfect for creek-side relaxation and exploration. As seasons change, the campground transforms into a winter wonderland, with snow blanketing the pines and creating a serene landscape for those seeking cold-weather camping adventures.
ElevationPerched at 4,600 feet in California's northern mountains, Big Pine Campground offers the perfect high-altitude escape. This elevation brings refreshingly cool mornings that invite you to wrap your hands around a steaming cup of coffee, while evenings call for cozy campfires and stargazing under exceptionally clear mountain skies.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where majestic Jeffrey pines stretch skyward, their vanilla-scented bark and sprawling branches creating natural cathedral ceilings above your campsite. Ancient volcanic rock formations peek through carpets of pine needles and emerald grass patches, telling stories of the region's fiery past. The star attraction, Hat Creek, sparkles with snow-fed waters that invite wading, fishing, and quiet contemplation as it journeys from Lassen's glacial heights.
Geological RegionExperience camping in the heart of the Hat Creek Recreation Area, where volcanic forces have sculpted an extraordinary landscape over millennia. Here, the legacy of Lassen Peak's volcanic activity surrounds you—from the distinctive rock formations to the pine-dotted terrain softened by meadow grasses. Hat Creek itself serves as a liquid lifeline, carrying pristine snowmelt from Lassen's slopes on its eventual journey to join the mighty Sacramento River, connecting mountain peaks to valley floors in nature's endless cycle.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground does not provide wheelchair-friendly toilets or other specific accessibility features.
Sites SizeThe sites are described as large and well-spaced, providing ample room for campers.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are widely separated, offering good privacy despite the lack of shrubbery between them. The area is described as open with lots of shade.
Total Campsites19 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose creekside sites for natural sound and reduced road noise.
Best CampsitesSites near Hat Creek are considered the most desirable for their calming creek sound and scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
2:00 PM
Stay Limit
14-day limit
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Maximum 2 vehicles per site
- no guest limit explicitly mentioned.
Groups
No designated group camping sites are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSingle loop layout with widely spaced campsites surrounded by Jeffrey pines.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from late April through Labor Day weekend.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are walk-up only and available on a first-come, first-served basis. No saving or holding sites is permitted.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are not available, hence no cancellation rules apply.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Big Pine Campground offers a range of outdoor recreational activities primarily focused on fishing, hiking, and enjoying the natural surroundings. The campground's proximity to Hat Creek provides opportunities for fishing, and there are nearby trails for hiking.
Hiking
The campground provides access to Hat Creek Trail (4 miles) and Spattercone Trail (1.5 miles), both suitable for foot traffic. Subway Cave and Lassen Volcanic National Park are nearby and frequently visited by campers.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Hat Creek, which is known for Rainbow, Brown, and Brook trout. Many user reviews commend the fishing opportunities in the area.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities exist within the natural surroundings of Hat Creek and the adjacent forest.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed only within designated fire rings.
Hazards
General hazardsCold mornings and evenings due to Lassen Peak's winds. Wildlife may be present. Road noise is noted by some users but masked by the creek in creekside sites.
Active alertsSite listed as temporarily closed in some records.
Weather forecast
78
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 22%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 2.6 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Emergency services are located in Burney, 27 miles south. Police and medical facilities are in Burney.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril through Labor Day weekend.
Trash and recyclingTrash and toilet services are available at the campground. However, recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Hat Creek, which offers fishing opportunities and areas for wading.
Common complaintsRoad noise is noted by some campers, although creek noise helps mitigate this issue. The water pump requires effort to operate, but the water quality is praised.
HostA friendly and hospitable campground host is noted in user reviews.
Campground Map
1 mile south of Old Station on State Route 44/89
Driving directionsIn Old Station, CA, at intersection of State Rts. 44 and 89, take Rt. 44/89 south and go 4.8 miles to campground sign on right. Turn left at sign onto a gravel road and go 0.4 miles to campground on left.
The campground is accessible via paved State Routes 44/89 and a gravel road. No seasonal closures are noted, but caution is advised on the gravel road.Nearby places
Old Station (1 mile), Burney (27 miles south)
Nearby supplies
Two stores are within easy driving distance: one around 5-6 miles and another slightly farther. Fuel and other essentials are likely available near Old Station or Burney.
Camper Reviews
4.7
13 reviews
Big Pine Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Big Pine Campground are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting its cleanliness, spacious sites, and proximity to Hat Creek for fishing. The campground's peaceful environment, shaded sites, and well-maintained vault toilets are frequently praised.
Review Summaries
Based on 13 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users praised the campground's cleanliness, particularly the vault toilets. Spacious and well-separated campsites were also highlighted. Users appreciated the quiet and relaxing atmosphere, the...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some reviews mentioned that the campground lacks shrubbery between sites, making it more open and less secluded. Cell phone service is unavailable, which some users may find inconvenient. Firewood...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers often recommended sites near the creek for the soothing sound of water. They also suggested bringing sufficient firewood and being prepared to use hand pumps for water. One reviewer noted...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is open seasonally from April to October, with most reviews mentioning visits during the summer months. June and July are particularly popular, with comments about the perfect weather...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Beautiful campground near Lassen National Park (but much quieter than camping in the park itself) with very clean facilities and nice big sites.' - Fallon Everitt. 2. 'The bathrooms were pit...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites near the creek are highly recommended for their tranquil sounds and scenic views. These sites offer the best camping experience, as noted by several reviewers.
Based on 13 reviewsAccessibility Features
There are no specific mentions of accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 13 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are welcome at the campground but must be kept on a leash in developed recreation sites. No issues or specific highlights regarding pets were noted in the reviews.
Based on 13 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025