Southwest Walk-In Campground
Southwest Walk-In Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / 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
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
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ProviderAbout this campground
Nestled just steps from the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center, Southwest Walk-in Campground offers an intimate wilderness experience with modern convenience. A smooth, paved pathway winds through the landscape, leading to thoughtfully placed campsites that balance accessibility with natural beauty. As winter transforms the park, this versatile camping area reinvents itself—from November through May, adventurous souls can embrace the magic of over-the-snow camping in designated areas south of the main parking lot, where pristine snowfields create an entirely different world.
The Southwest Walk-In Campground is a first-come, first-served facility with tent camping available. During winter, sites are relocated to an over-the-snow area.
Natural Features and SceneryFollow the enchanting trail behind the visitor center and discover a hidden gem of natural splendor. The path meanders through a tranquil woodland grove before revealing a breathtaking vista—a babbling creek winds through rolling hills that explode with color each summer. Beginning in early July, these hillsides transform into a golden tapestry as thousands of Mountain Mule Ears burst into bloom, creating a photographer's paradise and a stunning backdrop for your camping adventure. As visitor Edward Smallwood notes, this spectacular wildflower display is one of the park's best-kept secrets.
Geological RegionYour camping experience unfolds within the dramatic landscapes of Lassen Volcanic National Park, where the earth's raw power has sculpted a wonderland of steaming fumaroles, bubbling mud pots, and diverse volcanic formations. This dynamic geological playground serves as your backyard, offering endless opportunities to explore one of the world's most fascinating volcanic regions—where ancient forces continue to shape the land beneath your feet.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground features a short paved walkway for easy access to campsites. Accessibility information for individuals with mobility challenges is not explicitly provided.
Sites SizeStandard-size campsites suitable for tents and small setups.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are moderately spaced with both sun and shade. Reviews suggest a balance between privacy and proximity to other campers.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Walk-in Availability"The campsites are self-serve, and if you’re not trying to come on July 4th weekend, you probably don’t need a reservation." - Edward Smallwood, user review.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations must occur before the check-in date to avoid fees; late cancellations might result in forfeiting the first night’s charges.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
WiFi
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Campers at Southwest Walk-In Campground can enjoy hiking, stargazing, and visiting nearby geothermal and scenic attractions. The visitor center offers a convenient starting point for exploring the area's trails and other features.
Hiking
The campground is near trailheads leading to scenic areas, including a creek, hills covered in Mountain Mule Ears, and a waterfall. "The trail behind the visitor center takes you through a small wooded area before opening on a pretty creek and hills."Winter Activities
Winter camping is available in an over-the-snow area near the visitor center from November to May. The exact winter recreation facilities or opportunities are not detailed.Water Sports
Water sports are not mentioned as available activities in this campground.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
Weather forecast
45
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 59%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 2.7 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not mentioned explicitly, but visitors should manage their waste responsibly.
Campground Map
Driving directionsCampground is adjacent to the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center Parking Area, which is located one mile from the Southwest Entrance.
Campground is adjacent to the visitor center parking, accessible by paved roads. During winter, access shifts south of the parking lot for snow camping.Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Southwest Walk-In Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The Southwest Walk-In Campground receives positive reviews for its convenient location next to the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center and access to trails and scenic attractions. The lack of cell service is noted, but slow Wi-Fi is available at the visitor center. Highlights include clean restrooms, well-maintained campsites, and stunning stargazing opportunities.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Convenient location near the visitor center and trailheads; clean and accessible restrooms; scenic hikes with wildflower views; comfortable July temperatures; and excellent stargazing opportunities.
Based on 4 reviewsCommon Concerns
Limited or no cell service; very slow Wi-Fi at the visitor center; and proximity to other campers may lack seclusion for some visitors.
Based on 4 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring an offline map due to no cellular service; arrive early to secure a campsite as they are first-come, first-served; and consider visiting in July for wildflower blooms and other scenic features....
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight moderate temperatures, scenic wildflowers, and enjoyable hiking conditions. Winter reviews are less detailed but mention over-the-snow camping availability.
Based on 4 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The restrooms are clean. If they are busy when you need them, you can always try the visitor center where they leave the restrooms open 24 hours a day." "The campsites have both sun and shade, and...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific site numbers are not mentioned in the reviews, but all campsites are accessible via short walks along a paved path.
Based on 4 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is not explicitly addressed, but the paved walkway provides easy access to campsites.
Based on 4 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Reviews do not mention pet policies or pet-related amenities.
Based on 4 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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