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RVing in Lassen County, CA: Antelope and Eagle Lakes, Mt. Lassen

Now we're getting into some of the prettiest country in America. There's about a dozen places I give that description to, and several of them are in northern California and Oregon. Lassen County is one of them. Lassen County borders Nevada on the east, and is north of Lake Tahoe.  There are so many things to see and do here, that it's hard to decide what NOT to tell you about. So, I'll pick four and hope I have space to cover them all.

These four are Antelope Lake, Susanville, Eagle Lake and Mount Lassen, a live, but "resting" volcano. At the center of these three spots is Susanville, a very hospitable town. It doesn't matter where you go in Susanville, the people treat you as if they've known you for years. There are plenty of amenities here, including lots of restaurants, a Walmart, and grocery stores, so it's a good place to get supplies. We always stop at Black Bear Restaurant on Main Street for some of the best home-style cooking we've come across (outside of home, that is.) There's a strip mall about a block west of the restaurant where you can park your RV.

There's a nice guide and map at http://issuu.com/mcondon/docs/lvg2008-9/4. Pan through the guide and you'll find restaurants on page 13, maps of Eagle lake area (page 17) and more. Pages 70-72 show campgrounds and RV space information for the lake areas, including Lake Almanor in neighboring Plumas County. The guide also lists the many recreational activities and festivities that go on in the area. The video shows two, the Air and Classic Car show, and the Ducky Derby.

Antelope Lake

Antelope Lake is a little tough to get to but it is worth every tight, steep turn. To get there you take Hwy 36 to US 395 about 10 miles east of Susanville to Janesville, then south on County Road 208, about 15 miles up the mountain. A few miles out of Janesville, you'll be enjoying the spectacular view of the valley and Honey Lake (good catfish fishing.) There are 198 RV spaces in 4 campgrounds, offering dry camping except for water hookups. The dump station is permanently closed, but there are other nearby dump stations. Antelope Lake is closed in winter.

Majestic Ponderosa Pine, Douglas fir, cedars, other varieties of pine, fir and junipers, and lots of wildlife surround this very isolated lake. There's a marina and boat launch area, fishing, store, souvenirs, and some of the most peaceful camping you'll find anywhere.

On one of our Antelope Lake fishing trips we were graced with a visit by several chipmunks. They were all but tame, coming within a few feet of us, and very grateful for a few Fritos. They say the fishing is great there, but we didn't have any luck. So, the chipmunks, cute and entertaining, made our day. Overall, the relaxing atmosphere and beauty of the area makes this a worthwhile stopover.

Eagle Lake

Angler Alert: Eagle Lake is reputed to hold some of the tastiest red-meat trout you'll find anywhere. Gallatin Beach Marina has boat rentals, a sandy beach and other amenities. RV camping is available in various places around the lake.

There are trails and dirt roads that take you deep into nature's secluded areas where you can spot eagles and any of the other local wildlife. We went up one cliff-side road that brought us eyelevel with an osprey's nest, overlooking the lake. What a photo op!

It's a good idea to take these roads by passenger car or 4-wheel drive vehicle as the roads get very narrow making it difficult to turn around. This might mean backing up for several hundred feet. There are bear and mountain lion in the area, so be alert for danger.

You can drive around the south, east and north sides of the lake. It's a long trip through different terrain that will give you a chance to check out different campgrounds, fishing areas and activities. This is another of many beautiful lakes and recreation areas in Lassen County. Eagle Lake is about 15 miles north of Susanville, and is closed in winter.

Mt. Lassen - Lassen Volcanic National Park

While live, Mt. Lassen isn't active at the moment. This national park is about 50 miles west of Susanville. Some of the campgrounds have RV parking that is first come, first served, but make reservations if possible. The fact that they offer "bear-proof storage" should prepare you to stay alert. You can monitor current road, snow, campground and trail conditions at http://www.nps.gov/lavo/planyourvisit/current_conditions.htm.

Mt. Lassen last erupted in 1917 ending a series of eruptions that began in 1914. The U.S. Geological Survey intensified its monitoring activity when Mt. St. Helens erupted in 1980. They monitor activity by tracking two different kinds of seismic activity, plate movement and rising magma. Activity is usually measured for weeks or months before eruption takes place, so you can relax and enjoy your trip, knowing that there's plenty of warning time to clear the park.

You won't lack for something to do in Lassen County. The numerous lakes, community activities and natural wonders may just make you want to set up permanent camp.