Is Southwest Walk-In Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Southwest Walk-In Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, to secure a spot.

Can I see photos of campsites at Southwest Walk-In Campground before I book?

Yes! Southwest Walk-In Campground has 8 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Southwest Walk-In Campground?

Southwest Walk-In Campground is open Summer / Fall Season No Snow – approximately June through October When no snow is present, the walk-in campsites are available and the summer/fall camping fee applies.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Southwest Walk-In Campground?

Southwest Walk-In Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Are dogs allowed at Southwest Walk-In Campground?

Pets are not allowed at Southwest Walk-In Campground. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Southwest Walk-In Campground?

Southwest Walk-In Campground offers: Restrooms, Potable Water. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Southwest Walk-In Campground

3.71

14 reviews

Stargazing

Featured in:Camping Near Lassen Volcanic National Park

First-come, first-served

This campground doesn't take reservations — sites are claimed in person on arrival, so there's no availability to check online. Plan to arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays.

Quick Facts

6,713 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

Varies

Season

Summer / Fall Season...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

WiFi

Book Online Official Website

Get Directions

First-come, first-served

This campground doesn't take reservations — sites are claimed in person on arrival, so there's no availability to check online. Plan to arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays.

Quick Facts

6,713 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

Varies

Season

Summer / Fall Season...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

WiFi

Book Online Official Website

Get Directions

Southwest Walk-In Campground

No fees available

Campsite Fees

No paid fee categories listed.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

(530) 595-6121lavo_fees@nps.gov

I manage this campground

Plan a trip to Southwest Walk-In Campground

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Campground Map

Southwest Walk-In Campground

40.4366, -121.5326

Weather at Southwest Walk-In Campground

Best Time to Camp at Southwest Walk-In Campground

Best season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable access and the warmest, driest weather at this 6,700-foot campground, with daytime highs commonly in the mid-60s to mid-70s °F (18–24 °C) and cool nights in the 30s–40s °F (0–8 °C). Trail systems, the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center, and volcanic features are fully accessible, so hiking and interpretive programs are at their peak. Expect the highest visitor numbers in July–August, so plan weekdays or early/late season (June or September) for fewer crowds. Peak months: July, August, September, June

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

July brings peak wildflowers and comfortable daytime temps (mid-60s to mid-70s).

Planning Tips

Operating Season: Summer / Fall Season No Snow – approximately June through October When no snow is present, the walk-in campsites are available and the summer/fall camping fee applies.

About Southwest Walk-In Campground

Southwest Walk-In Campground sits at 6,713 feet in Lassen Volcanic National Park, steps from the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center and trailheads into the park's volcanic landscape. Tent-only sites offer flush toilets, potable water, fire rings, and picnic tables. Summer brings mid-60s to mid-70s °F days and cool nights in the 30s–40s °F, ideal for wildflower hikes and stargazing.

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.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable access and the warmest, driest weather at this 6,700-foot campground, with daytime highs commonly in the mid-60s to mid-70s °F (18–24 °C) and cool nights in the 30s–40s °F (0–8 °C). Trail systems, the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center, and volcanic features are fully accessible, so hiking and interpretive programs are at their peak. Expect the highest visitor numbers in July–August, so plan weekdays or early/late season (June or September) for fewer crowds. Peak months: July, August, September, June

Elevation6713 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground sits in a woodland grove behind the visitor center, with a creek running through rolling hills nearby. In early July, these hillsides fill with blooming Mountain Mule Ears, creating expansive golden displays. The surrounding volcanic landscape includes steaming fumaroles, mud pots, and diverse volcanic formations. Stargazing conditions are excellent due to minimal light pollution.

Lodging & AccommodationsLodging accommodations other than campsites are not available at this location.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

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Reserving a campsite

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

AccessibilityThe campground features a short paved walkway for easy access to campsites. Accessibility information for individuals with mobility challenges is not explicitly provided.

Site SizeStandard-size campsites suitable for tents and small setups.

PrivacyThe campsites are moderately spaced with both sun and shade. Reviews suggest a balance between privacy and proximity to other campers.

Amenities available

The Southwest Walk-In Campground offers easy-to-access campsites located adjacent to the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center parking area. Features include fire rings, picnic tables, and strong food lockers at each campsite. The location changes to an over-the-snow area during winter months (Nov-May), with camping registration at a fee booth south of the parking area. Drinking water and restrooms are available nearby at the visitor center, which also offers 24-hour restroom access.

Potable water

WiFi

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Picnic tables

I manage this campground

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.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Trip Planning Tools

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Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

Rate Southwest Walk-In Campground

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From Booking Sources

3.7

14 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Southwest Walk-In Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% 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 14 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 14 reviews

Common 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 14 reviews

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 14 reviews

Pro 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 14 reviews

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 14 reviews

Camper 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 14 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is not explicitly addressed, but the paved walkway provides easy access to campsites.

Based on 14 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Reviews do not mention pet policies or pet-related amenities.

Based on 14 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want easy trailhead access, flush toilets, and dark skies without hauling gear far from your car.

Skip if

You need RV hookups or prefer campgrounds that allow vehicle parking at your site.

Nearby Campgrounds

3.7

(14)

Southwest Campground - Winter/Spring

East side of the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center parking area, Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center, southwest corner of Lassen Volcanic National Park along Hwy 89, about 1 mile from the southwest entrance (500 feet from entrance station/fee booth).

Southwest Campground sits on the east side of the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center parking area at 6,722 feet in Lassen Volcanic National Park. Walk-in tent sites operate roughly June through October; when snow arrives, the campground closes and only self-contained vehicles can overnight in the parking lot. Reviewers praise the short carry from car to site, clean restrooms, and immediate access to trails and geothermal features.

Manzanita Lake Group Campground

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Manzanita Lake Group Campground sits in Lassen Volcanic National Park at mid-elevation forest, operated by the National Park Service. The campground offers tent sites, RV spaces, group camping, and cabins with access to showers, flush toilets, a dump station, and a camp store. Visitors hike park trails, fish and boat on Manzanita Lake, and photograph Lassen Peak's reflections from the shoreline.

$72.00 - $72.00 / night

LASSEN VOLCANIC NP P.O.BOX 100, MINERAL, CA, 96063, USA

Manzanita Lake sits in Lassen Volcanic National Park near Mineral, operated by the National Park Service as a seasonal basecamp for exploring volcanic terrain. The very large campground offers tent and RV sites with flush toilets, showers, a dump station, and a camp store in mid-elevation forest. Campers fish and paddle the lake, hike to Lassen Peak and geothermal features, and gather for ranger programs under dark skies.

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Manzanita Lake Camping Cabins (Ca)

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Manzanita Lake Camping Cabins sits at mid-elevation in Lassen Volcanic National Park near Shingletown, offering rustic cabins and primitive camping with views of Lassen Peak. Operated by Manzanita Lake Camping Cabins, the very large facility provides flush and vault toilets, showers, potable water, and a camp store with laundry and wifi. Guests hike park trails, fish and boat on Manzanita Lake, and swim during warmer months, with bear lockers and fire rings at each site.

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LASSEN VOLCANIC NP P.O.BOX 100 MINERAL, CA 96063 USA

Summit Lake South sits at mid-elevation in Lassen Volcanic National Park near Mineral, operated by the National Park Service. The very large campground offers tent, RV, and primitive sites with vault toilets, potable water, and fire rings. Campers hike park trails, fish and swim in Summit Lake, and stargaze after dark.

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LASSEN VOLCANIC NP P.O.BOX 100, MINERAL, CA 96063, USA

Summit Lake North sits at 6,700 feet in Lassen Volcanic National Park, operated by the National Park Service. This mid-sized campground offers tent and RV sites with flush and vault toilets, potable water, and fire rings. Campers use it as a base for hiking park trails, swimming in the alpine lake, and fishing.

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Warner Valley Campground

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Warner Valley Campground sits in mid-elevation forest within Lassen Volcanic National Park, operated by Ortega Parks and serving as a trailhead hub for Devil's Kitchen and Boiling Springs Lake. The small campground offers tent sites with vault toilets, potable water, fire rings, and picnic tables. Hikers come for direct access to volcanic features and wildflower-studded trails beneath Cascade domes and Sierra ridgelines.

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Summit Lake Stock Corral

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Summit Lake Stock Corral sits in mid-elevation forest within Lassen Volcanic National Park, operated by the National Park Service near Mineral, California. This primitive campground caters to visitors traveling with horses and pack animals, offering corrals and direct access to backcountry trails around Summit Lake and toward Lassen Peak. The small site provides vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables, with hiking, fishing, swimming, and boating available during the summer season when trails are typically snow-free.

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Battle Creek Campground

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LASSEN VOLCANIC NP PO BOX 100, MINERAL, CA 96063, USA

Lost Creek Group sits in mid-elevation forest within Lassen Volcanic National Park, near Mineral, California. Operated by the National Park Service, this very small group campground offers seasonal access to volcanic domes, fishing, boating, and swimming during the summer months. Reviewers praise the spacious layout and proximity to park attractions, though boundaries between sites can be unclear and yellow jackets sometimes frequent cooking areas.

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Hole-In-The-Ground Campground

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Hole-In-The-Ground Campground sits in mid-elevation forest within Lassen National Forest, a small site managed by the Forest Service. The campground offers fire rings and picnic tables for tent campers seeking a quieter alternative to busier recreation areas. Fall brings dramatic color along Mill Creek's canyon walls and lower water flows, making it ideal for photography and relaxed campfires.

Almanor Ranger District, P.O. BOX 767, 900 E HWY 36, CHESTER, CA 96020, USA

Gurnsey Creek sits in mid-elevation forest within Lassen National Forest, operated by the Almanor Ranger District near Chester. The small campground offers tent, RV, primitive, and group camping with vault toilets, potable water, fire rings, and picnic tables. Reviewers appreciate the spacious sites and proximity to both Lassen Volcanic National Park and Lake Almanor, though recent tree removal has reduced shade and privacy in some areas.

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Campgrounds

Lassen Volcanic National Park

Southwest Walk-In Campground

About Lassen Volcanic National Park

Context for the broader area surrounding Southwest Walk-In Campground, sourced from the federal Recreation.gov rec-area record.

Lassen Volcanic National Park is home to steaming fumaroles, meadows freckled with wildflowers, clear mountain lakes, and numerous volcanoes. Jagged peaks tell the story of its eruptive past while hot water continues to shape the land.

Directions

From Interstate 5 (Redding), take Hwy 44 - 48 miles east to the junction of Hwy 89. Follow Hwy 89 south 1 mile to the north entrance of the park. From Interstate 5 (Red Bluff) take Hwy 36 E - 51 miles east to the junction of Hwy 89. Follow Hwy 89 north 6 miles to south entrance of the park.