Lassen Volcanic National Park breaks Exciting News on Recovery of the Park
By Sierra Rec Magazine – National Parks Feature | Lassen Volcanic National Park
There’s something special about Lassen’s Warner Valley—a tucked-away alpine escape where geothermal wonders, serene meadows, and volcanic backdrops meet rustic charm and rejuvenation. And after years of recovery from the 2021 Dixie Fire, we’ve got thrilling news for summer travelers: Drakesbad Guest Ranch and Warner Valley Campground are officially reopening for the 2025 season!
For the first time since the fire, guests can once again wake up to steam rising off Hot Springs Creek, sip morning coffee with meadow views, and fall asleep under a brilliant canopy of stars. Whether you’re looking for an off-the-grid lodge experience or a quiet tent site nestled deep in the pines, Warner Valley is calling you back.
What’s Reopening?
- Drakesbad Guest Ranch – This beloved high-country retreat opens in early July and is reservation-only. Known for its rustic cabins, natural hot springs pool, and horseback riding, Drakesbad is the crown jewel of Lassen’s lodging.
- Warner Valley Campground – Just down the road from the ranch, this scenic campground is set to open by mid-June with a mix of reservations and first-come, first-served sites. It’s a prime basecamp for adventures to Boiling Springs Lake, Devil’s Kitchen, and beyond.
Why It Matters
The reopening of Warner Valley marks a major milestone in Lassen’s fire recovery story. Much of this corner of the park has been inaccessible since the Dixie Fire devastated the region in 2021. For those of us who have yet to explore this hidden gem—or those eager to return—2025 offers a long-awaited invitation to reconnect.
As someone who has yet to visit this section of the park, I can tell you—this is a summer opportunity I won’t pass up. It’s rare to witness a landscape rebound with such grace. From wildflower-filled meadows to the smell of warm lodgepole pines, this place reminds us of what makes the Sierra Nevada so magical.
🛏 How to Book
Reservations for both Drakesbad and Warner Valley are open now.
Visit: LassenLodging.com
For general park information on lodging and dining:
👉 nps.gov/lavo/eatingsleeping
Planning Tip:
Combine your stay with hikes to Butte Dome and the Painted dunes, a visit to nearby Chester and Lake Almanor, or a scenic drive through Lassen’s volcanic corridor. And yes—don’t forget your swimsuit for that legendary hot springs soak at Drakesbad.
#DiscoverMoreSierra | #Lassen2025 | #BackToDrakesbad
