Parks Manager

Getting to Lassen Volcanic National Park

Lassen Volcanic National Park sits in CA, United States, with Chester the nearest town of any size — about 19.4 mi (31.3 km) out, or roughly 45 min of driving.

Towns to base yourself in

Towns nearest Lassen Volcanic National Park
TownDistanceEstimated drive
Chester19.4 mi (31.3 km)45 min
Shingletown20.5 mi (32.9 km)47 min
Burney27.7 mi (44.6 km)1 hr
Westwood29.3 mi (47.1 km)1 hr 2 min
Greenville38.2 mi (61.4 km)1 hr 18 min
Palo Cedro39.1 mi (62.8 km)1 hr 19 min
Bella Vista39.7 mi (63.8 km)1 hr 20 min
Cottonwood41.8 mi (67.3 km)1 hr 24 min

How to read these numbers

Distances are straight-line between the town and the park centre. Drive estimates add a road factor and an average speed, which is close enough for planning but wrong wherever mountains, ferries, or seasonal closures are involved.

Inside a large park, getting from the entrance to the part you came to see can add another hour or more.

Region pages

Common questions

What is the closest town to Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Chester, about 19.4 mi (31.3 km) away — roughly 45 min of driving.

Where should I stay when visiting Lassen Volcanic National Park?

The practical bases are Chester, Shingletown, and Burney — all within a reasonable drive of the park.