About JUNIPER LAKE GROUP
Overview Juniper Lake Group Campground (elevation 6,800 feet) is a remote, rustic facility in the southeastern part of Lassen Volcanic National Park. It is on the eastern shore of Juniper Lake, a popular swimming spot, and offers a fantastic view of Lassen Peak, the largest volcano in the park, towering at 10,457 feet.Recreation The main trailheads for Horseshoe Lake, Snag Lake and the interior of the park are within the facility. The Mount Harkness Trail ascends to a historic fire tower that is still in use. Juniper Lake is popular for canoeing, kayaking and swimming; Motorized boating is not permitted.Facilities This is a tent-only facility with two group sites. Drinking water is not available. It is connected to the rest of Juniper Lake Campground, which is all first-come, first-served. Access is via a 13-mile road (seven miles gravel, six miles roughly paved). For more information visit Campgrounds of Lassen Volcanic.Natural Features The national park is known for its volcanic history, as well as its diversity of plants and animals. It contains 300 active volcanic domes and many hydrothermal features, such as mud pots and steam vents, some of which are close to the campground. Lassen Peak is the southernmost active volcano in the Cascades, and the second-most recent volcano to erupt in the lower 48 of the United States before Mount Saint Helens in 1980. Lassen National Park boasts over 700 species of flowering plants and 250 species of vertebrates, including birds, mammals, reptiles and fish. The park is at the junction of the Cascade Mountains, the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the Great Basin, thus providing many unique habitats.
How to Get There
From the Red Bluff (I.5), drive east on state HWY 36 approximately 70 miles to Chester. Turn left at fire station immediately after crossing Feather River Bridge (watch for National Park Service sign on right) continue approximately 13 miles follow signs to Juniper Lake Campground and Group Campsite Area. Campground access is via paved and dirt road, last 6 miles is narrow, rough and dusty dirt road.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to JUNIPER LAKE GROUP
Heading to JUNIPER LAKE GROUP? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for JUNIPER LAKE GROUP?
No central reservation system listed for JUNIPER LAKE GROUP. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234524) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to JUNIPER LAKE GROUP?
From the Red Bluff (I.5), drive east on state HWY 36 approximately 70 miles to Chester. Turn left at fire station immediately after crossing Feather River Bridge (watch for National Park Service sign on right) continue approximately 13 miles follow signs to Juniper Lake Campground and Group Campsite Area. Campground access is via paved and dirt road, last 6 miles is narrow, rough and dusty dirt ro…
How do I contact JUNIPER LAKE GROUP?
You can reach the park at phone: 530 595-6121 or email: Michelle_DUlisse@nps.gov.
References & Official Resources