Gurnsey Creek
03 reviewsAlmanor Ranger District, P.O. BOX 767, 900 E HWY 36, CHESTER, CA 96020, USA
Gurnsey Creek
$56.00 - $112.00 / 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$112.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group sites cost $56 per night for Loop #1 (up to 56 people) and $112 per night for Loop #2 (up to 112 people). Fees do not include additional reservation charges.
About this campground
Tucked away in the towering mixed conifer forests of Lassen National Forest, Gurnsey Creek Campground invites outdoor enthusiasts to experience the perfect blend of wilderness tranquility and recreational adventure. Whether you're casting a line in pristine mountain waters, exploring scenic hiking trails, or gathering with loved ones for an unforgettable group camping experience, this hidden gem offers something for everyone. The campground features both intimate individual sites and two spacious group camping loops—one accommodating up to 56 people for family reunions and the other hosting up to 112 for larger gatherings, making it an ideal basecamp for groups of all sizes.
Gurnsey Creek Campground offers individual campsites and two large group camping areas. RVs and tents are supported, but there are no utility hookups available.
Historical SignificanceWhile the whispers of history echo through these ancient forests, the stories of this land remain nestled among the pines, waiting to be discovered by curious visitors who take time to listen to the wind through the trees.
Weather and SeasonsFrom late May through early October, Gurnsey Creek transforms into a mountain paradise where warm days give way to crisp, star-filled nights. The campground's peak season brings stretches of brilliant blue skies perfect for outdoor adventures, though mountain weather can surprise visitors with refreshing afternoon showers or even early season snow dustings. Smart campers come prepared for nature's full repertoire, knowing that the ever-changing mountain climate is part of the authentic wilderness experience.
ElevationPerched at 4,700 feet above sea level, Gurnsey Creek Campground offers the sweet spot of mountain camping—high enough to escape the valley heat and enjoy crisp, pine-scented air, yet accessible enough for comfortable camping. This perfect elevation delivers moderate temperatures that make both daytime adventures and evening campfires equally enjoyable, while treating visitors to sweeping vistas that stretch across the forested ridgelines.
Natural Features and SceneryThe melodic babble of Gurnsey Creek provides a natural soundtrack to your camping experience in this enchanting mixed conifer forest. Towering pines and firs create a living cathedral at 4,700 feet, offering dappled shade and the intoxicating scent of mountain wilderness. Adventure beckons just beyond your campsite, with the sapphire waters of Lake Almanor and the otherworldly volcanic landscapes of Lassen Volcanic National Park within easy reach, promising day trips filled with swimming, boating, and exploration of bubbling mud pots and steaming fumaroles.
Geological RegionGurnsey Creek Campground sits within the remarkable geological tapestry of Lassen National Forest, where ancient volcanic activity has sculpted a landscape of dramatic beauty. At 4,700 feet elevation, the campground occupies a sweet spot where crystal-clear Gurnsey Creek has carved its path through forests of mixed conifers, creating a diverse ecosystem where volcanic soils nurture towering pines, firs, and cedars that have stood sentinel for generations.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible vault toilets and parking.
Sites SizeSites are relatively spacious according to reviews. The group sites include seven and thirteen individual sites respectively.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is noted as significantly reduced due to tree removal for fire management. One user stated, "Gurnsey will never be the same! Lots of trees removed and now the whole place is wide open!"
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites with better solar exposure for RV solar panels; avoid sites near major roads to minimize noise.
Best CampsitesGroup Site #1 (sites 31-37) and Group Site #2 (sites 38-51) are highly structured with amenities like picnic tables and fire rings.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum of 14 nights per visit, and 14 nights total per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Group Site Loop #1 allows 56 guests
- Group Site Loop #2 allows 112 guests.
Groups
Group Site 1 accommodates up to 56 people across seven individual campsites (sites 31-37), while Group Site 2 accommodates up to 112 people across 13 sites (sites 38-51). Both sites include fire rings, picnic tables, and parking spurs.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutIncludes two group site loops: Loop #1 (sites 31-37) and Loop #2 (sites 38-51), along with individual sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 22 to October 5 (Peak Season).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground has sites available for first-come, first-served visitors, but specific site numbers and availability patterns are not detailed.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee and may include forfeiting the first night's recreation use fee if canceled less than 24 hours before check-in for individual campsites, or less than 14 days for group sites.
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
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The primary activities include hiking, fishing, and picnicking. Nearby attractions also offer opportunities for boating and other water-based activities, particularly at Lake Almanor. The campground is located near hiking trails and Gurnsey Creek, which is noted for rainbow trout fishing.
Hiking
Hiking trails are accessible directly from the campground. No specific details about trail difficulty, length, or scenic highlights are provided.Fishing
Fishing is available at Gurnsey Creek, with a focus on rainbow trout. The official source describes it as one of the main recreational activities.Boating
Boating is available at nearby Lake Almanor, which is approximately 14 miles from the campground. Activities like fishing, sailing, and water skiing are also popular there, according to the authoritative source.Winter Activities
No winter activities such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or ice fishing are mentioned.Water Sports
Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are not specifically mentioned, but water-based activities are available at nearby Lake Almanor, which includes boating and water skiing.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings; check current fire restrictions on-site.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include bear activity and tree-killing pests. Nearby busy roads can be noisy, impacting tent campers.
Active alertsUser reviews mention significant tree removal and changes to campground layout.
Weather forecast
77
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 23%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
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
Closest hospital or emergency services are likely in Chester (~14 miles away). Specific emergency facility details not explicitly provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 22, 2025 - October 5, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal facilities are not explicitly mentioned in the source materials.
Proximity to water featuresLocated next to Gurnsey Creek. Lake Almanor is 14 miles away.
Common complaintsComplaints include loss of privacy due to tree removal, limited shade, and concerns about campground closures.
Campground Map
Almanor Ranger District, P.O. BOX 767, 900 E HWY 36, CHESTER, CA 96020, USA
Driving directionsFrom the town of Chester, follow Highway 36 west for about 14 miles. Gurnsey Creek Campground is located on the right side of the highway, about 2 miles past the Highway 32 turnoff.
The campground is accessible via Highway 36, which is paved. The entrance is located 14 miles west of Chester. Road access appears straightforward but may experience seasonal weather-related challenges.Nearby places
Chester (14 miles, ~20 minutes), Lake Almanor (14 miles, ~20 minutes), Southwest Entrance to Lassen Volcanic National Park (14 miles north, ~20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Supplies such as propane, diesel, and food can be found in Chester, approximately 14 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Gurnsey Creek has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews are mixed, with an average sentiment rating of 3.7 overall and 2.67 for campground-specific sentiments. Positive aspects include spacious sites and access to basic amenities like potable water and vault toilets. However, the removal of trees has been a significant complaint, as it has reduced shade and privacy.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive highlights include the campground's spacious sites, its proximity to Lassen Volcanic National Park and Lake Almanor, and the availability of accessible water spigots and vault toilets. One...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints focus on the reduced tree cover and lack of privacy. A user remarked, "Gurnsey will never be the same! Lots of trees removed and now the whole place is wide open!" Another mentioned...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
For larger rigs, campers should practice backing in due to limited parking. Verizon and T-Mobile users may consider bringing a router and booster for improved connectivity.
Based on 3 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews emphasize the high solar potential for campers relying on solar panels. Tree removal has impacted shade availability, making some sites less comfortable during hotter months.
Based on 3 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "Nice large spaces. Was heavily forested at one time, shade is nice, and now most of the trees are gone??" - Wayne Salo. 2. "Some spots for okay solar—we were getting 200W of a possible 400." -...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Group Site 1 (sites 31-37) and Group Site 2 (sites 38-51) are noted for their capacity and amenities. Reviews for individual sites are limited.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible vault toilets and parking are available. No user reviews specifically address their usability or quality.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically discuss pet-related policies or experiences.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025