Hat Creek

Star3.82
10 reviews
LASSEN NATIONAL FOREST, HAT CREEK RANGER DISTRICT, PO BOX 220, Fall River Mills, CA, 96028, USA

Quick Facts

4,390 ft

Price

$16 - $80/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

3 campsites

Season

Open season begins A...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Lassen National Forest, Hat Creek Ranger District site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Hat Creek
$16.00 - $80.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Individual sites are available for $16 per night during peak season (April 23, 2025 - October 10, 2025), while group sites are $80 per night. Fees do...
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Standard Site Fee$16.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$80.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
530-336-5521
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What Campers Say

3.82

Mixed Reviews

Based on 10 reviews

Most mentioned

privacysites

Some mention

noise

"Hat Creek receives generally positive reviews, with users praising its natural beauty, well-spaced sites, and range of activities. However, some complaints include noise issues at night and limited bathroom availability in group sites."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

LASSEN NATIONAL FOREST, HAT CREEK RANGER DISTRICT, PO BOX 220, Fall River Mills, CA, 96028, USA

Hat Creek

LASSEN NATIONAL FOREST, HAT CREEK RANGER DISTRICT, PO BOX 220, Fall River Mills, CA, 96028, USA

Driving directionsFrom Highways 44 and 89, go through Old Station and continue 1.5 miles west to the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads. Directions specify navigating through Old Station and continuing west; no specific challenges or seasonal closures were noted.
Nearby places
Old Station (1 mile west), Lassen Volcanic National Park (12 miles east northwest entrance), Fall River Mills (approximately 30 miles).
Nearby supplies
Groceries and fuel are available in Old Station, 1 mile west of the campground. Additional supplies may require travel to surrounding towns like Fall River Mills or larger areas in Lassen National Forest.

Best Time to Camp at Hat Creek

Summer brings refreshingly cold creek waters that offer sweet relief after a day of exploration, while spring showcases nature's power as snowmelt swells the creek to impressive volumes. The climate here dances between extremes – expect crisp, star-filled nights and warm, sun-dappled days. Though the region tends toward drier conditions, occasional mountain storms can sweep through, bringing dramatic skies and the fresh scent of rain on pine needles. Pack layers and prepare for mountain weather's delightful unpredictability.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Summer popular for fishing and hiking; creek provides refreshing cold water after activity.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.5 / 5

Open through Oct 10; scenic forests and volcanic views likely good though fewer reviews noted.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Spring snowmelt swells creek (dramatic scenery) but causes high, fast waters that limit some activities.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed outside Apr 23–Oct 10 season; winter visit not supported.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: April 23, 2025 - October 10, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open season begins April 23, 2025, and ends October 10, 2025.

About Hat Creek

Nestled in the heart of Lassen National Forest, Hat Creek Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. Here, trophy trout dart through crystal-clear waters while towering mixed conifers provide a natural cathedral of shade and privacy. Modern amenities including flush toilets, utility sinks, and fresh drinking water ensure comfort without sacrificing the authentic wilderness experience. The nearby volcanic landscapes add an otherworldly dimension to your camping adventure, making this a gateway to some of Northern California's most dramatic geological wonders.
Hat Creek offers a mix of individual and group camping options, catering to both small and larger groups. Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, with three group sites that can accommodate up to 50 people each.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
  • Check-in times are standard
  • further details not specified.
Check-out
  • Check-out times are standard
  • further details not specified.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights consecutively or 14 nights total per year.

Amenities available

Potable water
Flush toilets
Dump station
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Hat Creek provides a range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Popular activities include trophy trout fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing, hunting, backpacking, and caving. Nearby attractions like the Spatter Cones Nature Trail and Subway Cave add to the recreational opportunities.
HikingThe Spatter Cones Nature Trail is a 1.5-mile loop located across the highway from the campground, offering views of craters, cones, and other volcanic features. The Pacific Crest Trail is also accessible near the Spatter Cones Nature Trailhead. Subway Cave, a lava tube trail less than half a mile long, is another unique hiking experience.
FishingHat Creek is renowned for its trophy trout fishing, drawing anglers from far and wide. The creek's cold waters provide an ideal habitat for trout.
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is a popular activity in the area, but specific species or viewing locations are not detailed.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsProximity to snowmelt in Hat Creek may present water hazard risks. No specific wildlife or terrain hazards were mentioned.

Weather at Hat Creek

Reviews

3.8
10 reviews
Mixed Reviews
Mixed Reviews
Hat Creek has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Hat Creek receives generally positive reviews, with users praising its natural beauty, well-spaced sites, and range of activities. However, some complaints include noise issues at night and limited bathroom availability in group sites.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews

What Campers Love

"Beautiful site"; "Well-spaced sites providing privacy"; "Proximity to activities such as the Spatter Cones Nature Trail and Subway Cave".
Based on 10 reviews

Common Concerns

Noise disturbances at night from neighboring campers; Limited bathroom availability in group sites.
Based on 10 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring a splitting maul for gathering firewood at Group Site #1; Flashlights are essential for exploring Subway Cave.
Based on 10 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is highlighted as a popular season for activities like fishing and hiking. Snowmelt in early summer makes the creek run high and fast. Cooler seasons are less reviewed.
Based on 10 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Beautiful site"; "Group site #1 had 4 tables and 2 campfire pits. The water faucet was located on the north end of the site. Hat Creek is located approx 100 yards away. Lots of snowmelt had it...
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Based on 10 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Group site #1 is noted for its setup with four picnic tables and two campfire pits. The water faucet is located at the north end, and the creek is approximately 100 yards away.
Based on 10 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews addressing accessibility features.
Based on 10 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No specific reviews related to pet policies or experiences.
Based on 10 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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