Manzanita Lake Camping Cabins (Ca)

4.42

259 reviews

39489 CA-44, Shingletown, CA, 96088

Scenic ViewsGreat HikingSummer Destination

Featured in:Camping Near Lassen Volcanic National Park#2

Quick Facts

5,890 ft

Price

$76 - $149/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

179 campsites

Season

Open May 22, 2025, t...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

No Pets

ShowersWiFi

Opens Manzanita Lake Camping Cabins site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

5,890 ft

Price

$76 - $149/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

179 campsites

Season

Open May 22, 2025, t...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

No Pets

ShowersWiFi

Opens Manzanita Lake Camping Cabins site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Manzanita Lake Camping Cabins (Ca)

$76.00 - $149.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Rates vary by cabin type, season, and amenities. Peak season rates for cabins range from $76 to $149 per night. Discounts, taxes, and incremental...

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

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

530-779-0307

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What Campers Say

4.42

Recommended

Based on 259 reviews

31 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewspeacefulshowershiking

"Mixed reviews highlight both the scenic beauty and convenient location of the cabins near Manzanita Lake, as well as significant maintenance and cleanliness issues. Positive reviews often mention the proximity to hiking trails, peaceful environment, and helpful staff. Negative feedback includes dirty showers, malfunctioning propane heaters, missing lanterns, and issues with blinds and pests such as carpenter ants."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

39489 CA-44, Shingletown, CA, 96088

Manzanita Lake Camping Cabins (Ca)

39489 CA-44, Shingletown, CA, 96088

Driving directionsFrom Redding, drive approximately 48 miles east on State Highway 44. Turn right into Lassen Volcanic National Park and continue one mile south to the Manzanita Lake Campground, Camper Store, and Cabins.

Access is primarily via State Highway 44, which is paved and well-maintained year-round. Seasonal closures may impact driving conditions during heavy snow.

Nearby places

Redding (48 miles, ~1 hour), Sacramento (approx. 3 hours), San Francisco Bay Area (~4.5 hours).

Nearby supplies

Groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and other essentials are available at the Manzanita Lake Camper Store, located within walking distance of the campground.

Best Time to Camp at Manzanita Lake Camping Cabins (Ca)

Experience nature's dramatic seasonal symphony at Manzanita Lake, where summer days bask in warmth that can climb above 90°F, perfect for lake swimming and hiking adventures. As darkness falls, the mountain air transforms, bringing refreshingly cool nights ideal for campfire stories and stargazing. Winter transforms this volcanic landscape into a snow-laden wonderland, though heavy snowfall may limit access – a reminder of nature's powerful presence in this dynamic environment.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Open and active in summer with swimming, boating and hiking; reviews note crowding and maintenance issues.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 5% in CA

Fall reviews are more positive: quieter, cooler, and very scenic—better overall experience per reviews.

Spring(Mar-May)

Not recommended

Seasonal opening is late May; spring camping is largely outside the reservation window.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground/cabins are seasonally open May 22–Oct 13; closed for winter camping.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 22 to October 13, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open May 22, 2025, to October 13, 2025; reservable dates start June 20, 2025.
Current Alerts: No current alerts are explicitly stated in the provided information.

About Manzanita Lake Camping Cabins (Ca)

Nestled in the shadow of majestic Lassen Peak, Manzanita Lake Camping Cabins invite you to experience the raw beauty of California's most active volcanic landscape. These charming rustic retreats, set alongside a bustling 179-site campground near the park's northwest entrance, offer the perfect blend of comfort and wilderness adventure. Choose from cozy one-room cabins for intimate getaways (accommodating up to 3 guests), spacious two-room family cabins (sleeping up to 6), or social bunkhouses perfect for larger groups (hosting up to 8 adventurers). With the crystal-clear waters of Manzanita Lake just steps away and modern conveniences like a well-stocked camper store, hot showers, and ranger-led educational programs at your fingertips, you'll discover the ideal basecamp for exploring this geothermal wonderland.

Manzanita Lake Camping Cabins offer primitive-style accommodations in rustic cabins with no electricity or running water. Options include one-room, two-room, and bunkhouse cabins, each catering to different group sizes.

Historical SignificanceStand in awe at the foot of Lassen Peak, the southernmost sentinel in the Cascade's chain of fire mountains. This sleeping giant made history as the only volcano to erupt in the contiguous United States before Mount St. Helens awakened, leaving behind a landscape that tells ancient stories of earth's fury and rebirth. Join fascinating ranger-led programs that unlock the secrets of this volcanic realm, where indigenous peoples once walked and where the earth still whispers tales of its fiery past.

Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's dramatic seasonal symphony at Manzanita Lake, where summer days bask in warmth that can climb above 90°F, perfect for lake swimming and hiking adventures. As darkness falls, the mountain air transforms, bringing refreshingly cool nights ideal for campfire stories and stargazing. Winter transforms this volcanic landscape into a snow-laden wonderland, though heavy snowfall may limit access – a reminder of nature's powerful presence in this dynamic environment.

ElevationPerched at an invigorating 5,890 feet above sea level, Manzanita Lake Camping Cabins offer a true high-altitude escape where the air is crisp, the stars shine brighter, and every breath connects you to the pristine mountain environment. This elevated paradise creates perfect conditions for cool, comfortable nights and showcases the remarkable ecological diversity that thrives where the thin air meets volcanic soil.

Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a pristine ponderosa pine forest where towering evergreens frame views of an otherworldly volcanic landscape. Here, over 300 ancient lava domes dot the horizon while steam rises mysteriously from hydrothermal vents, creating an ever-changing tableau of Earth's creative forces. This remarkable ecosystem supports an astounding array of life – more than 700 species of flowering plants paint the meadows in seasonal colors, while 250 native animal species, from black bears to mountain chickadees, call this volcanic paradise home.

Geological RegionDiscover yourself at nature's most dramatic crossroads, where the mighty Cascade Range meets the granite peaks of the Sierra Nevada and the vast expanse of the Great Basin. Manzanita Lake sits at the heart of Lassen Volcanic National Park, a geological wonderland where the Earth's inner workings bubble to the surface through mud pots, fumaroles, and boiling springs. This unique convergence of three major geographic provinces creates an extraordinarily diverse landscape of volcanic domes, alpine lakes, and hydrothermal features that exist nowhere else on Earth in such remarkable concentration.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

3:00 PM

Check-out

11:00 AM

Stay Limit

14 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Cabins accommodate 3-8 guests based on the specific cabin model.

Groups

Bunkhouses accommodating up to eight guests, but not suitable for larger groups.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutCabins are spaced for privacy; nearby facilities include restrooms, water spigots, and a camper store.

Reservation PlatformsReservations available on www.lassenlodging.com and Recreation.gov.

Walk-in AvailabilityInformation on walk-up availability is not explicitly stated.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before scheduled arrival. Late cancellations (less than 14 days prior) incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's use fee.

AccessibilityCabin #14 is noted to be ADA-friendly, featuring ramp access to the front door. Reviews highlight the lack of detailed accessibility information for other cabins.

Site SizeCabins range from single-room spaces to larger two-room models and bunkhouses accommodating groups. The interior space varies significantly.

PrivacyReviews frequently mention that cabins are spaced adequately for privacy, with some being isolated for a quieter experience. Cabin #14 stands out for its solitude.

Total Campsites179 campsites

Recommended SitesCabin #14 offers solitude and accessibility. Guests recommend bringing additional lighting, bedding, and padding for firm mattresses.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

WiFi

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers a diverse range of activities, such as hiking, fishing, boating, and bird watching. Nearby Manzanita Lake is popular for kayaking and paddleboarding, while educational programs are available at the Loomis Museum and the campground amphitheater.

HikingMore than 150 miles of hiking trails can be accessed from the campground, ranging from family-friendly to challenging routes like the Chaos Crags Trail and King’s Creek Falls. Several reviewers recommended these hikes.

FishingManzanita Lake supports catch-and-release trout fishing, requiring artificial lures and single barb-less hooks. Many reviews praise the peaceful fishing experience.

BoatingNon-motorized boating is permitted on Manzanita Lake, with kayak and paddleboard rentals available. Several reviewers noted the lack of fins on rental paddleboards.

Wildlife viewingBird watching is a popular activity, with species like Osprey, Great Blue Heron, and American Dipper frequently spotted. Wildlife sightings at sunrise and sunset are common.

Cultural and Educational ProgramsEducational programs are offered at the Loomis Museum and amphitheater, focusing on the park's volcanic history and geology.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsWildlife encounters (including bears), volcanic terrain, and cold weather during off-peak seasons.

Active AlertsNo current alerts are explicitly stated in the provided information.

Food Storage RequiredBear-proof lockers are provided at each cabin, included in the rental.

Fire PolicyFire pits are available; firewood must be purchased locally to prevent pest spread.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are reportedly enforced, particularly for family-friendly experiences.

Emergency ServicesLoomis Ranger Station near the campground; additional emergency services in Redding, CA.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available near the cabin sites, though some reviews noted issues with overflowing trash bins and lids that wouldn't close properly.

Water FeaturesWalking distance to Manzanita Lake, popular for fishing, kayaking, and paddle boarding.

Camp HostCamp hosts are present and described as helpful in resolving issues, according to user reviews.

Weather at Manzanita Lake Camping Cabins (Ca)

Reviews

4.4

259 reviews

Recommended

Manzanita Lake Camping Cabins (Ca) is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Mixed reviews highlight both the scenic beauty and convenient location of the cabins near Manzanita Lake, as well as significant maintenance and cleanliness issues. Positive reviews often mention the proximity to hiking trails, peaceful environment, and helpful staff. Negative feedback includes dirty showers, malfunctioning propane heaters, missing lanterns, and issues with blinds and pests such as carpenter ants.

Review Summaries

Based on 259 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive themes in reviews include the beautiful views of Lassen Peak, proximity to Manzanita Lake, peaceful surroundings, and accessibility to hiking trails. Many enjoyed the rustic charm and...

Based on 259 reviews

Common Concerns

Numerous complaints focus on dirty restrooms and showers, broken facilities, and maintenance issues like missing blinds or non-functional propane heaters. Carpenter ants and other pests were...

Based on 259 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring extra lighting as lanterns provided are often missing or dim. Pack bedding as cabins only include mattresses. Plan to buy firewood on-site to comply with pest-control regulations. Rent kayaks...

Based on 259 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews often highlight the busy campground, warm weather, and increased issues with maintenance. Fall reviews are more positive, emphasizing the peaceful environment and cooler temperatures.

Based on 259 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The cabins are clean and cute. The beds are very hard." "It is a dark sky area so the stars are spectacular." "Bring a lantern as cabin #14 was missing the one that was supposed to be provided."...

Based on 259 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Cabin #14 receives positive feedback for being secluded, ADA-accessible, and peaceful but noted for missing lanterns. Cabin #8 is criticized for carpenter ants and broken blinds. Cabin #13 is often...

Based on 259 reviews