Lassen Volcanic National Park announces that the park’s highway is closed to through traffic for the winter/spring snow season following recent autumn storms that brought heavy snow and ice to the high-elevation roadway.
Lassen Volcanic National Park remains open throughout the winter/spring snow season and can be a wonderful time to visit for well-prepared visitors, say park staff. While the park remains open, vehicle access is limited to 1 mile from the northwest entrance to the Loomis Plaza and 1 mile from the southwest entrance to the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center. The majority of Lassen National Park Highway, and the other park roads into Juniper Lake, Warner Valley and Butte Lake, are closed to vehicles.
While the park is in winter conditions, camping is permitted in the southwest area parking lot in self-contained vehicles, such as motorhomes and trailers. Tent camping is not permitted in the southwest area, nor in the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center parking area. Tent camping is allowed in the LVNP backcountry with a permit, as well as in the adjacent Lassen National Forest. Backcountry is defined as at least 1/2 mile from any park road open to vehicle traffic.
Fires and fire pans are not permitted; self-contained barbecues and gas stoves are allowed. Drinking water and restrooms are available inside the visitor center. Visitors are reminded to be cautious of camping anywhere near trees that may have been impacted during the 2021 Dixie Fire. Weakened trees and branches can fall without warning.
Park staff encourage visitors to enjoy their time in the park by adhering to the following preparedness tips:
- Check the weather forecast.
- Dress in layers.
- Carry food and water.
- Stow a shovel, blankets and tire chains in the vehicle.
- Expect winter road conditions.
- Fill up the gas tank before entering the park; there is no gas available until May.
Additional information about Lassen Volcanic National Park is available at www.nps.gov/lavo and on social media.