Superintendent's Compendium

What is a Superintendent’s Compendium?

The Superintendent's Compendium is a collection of regulations, requirements, and restrictions that are specific to Lassen Volcanic National Park and made by the park’s superintendent.National Park Service units like Lassen Volcanic NP are governed by the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) – specifically, Chapter 1, Parts 1 through 7 and 34. Under CFR, superintendents are allowed to (and sometimes required to) make park-specific additions to the CFR. The Superintendent’s Compendium is the collection of those additions.

What regulations pertain to me?

Any person within the boundary of Lassen Volcanic National Park (visitor, employee, contractor, etc.) must abide by all regulations within both CFR and the Superintendent’s Compendium.That said, you probably don’t need to review every regulation for your visit. The compendium is also a large legal document and can be difficult to navigate. There are two ways to review park regulations.

1. The entire compendium is transcribed below. Navigate the compendium using the in-page navigation or your browser's find in page function.
2. We’ve pulled the most commonly-referenced regulations into their own pages. These pages don’t look the same as the compendium, but include the same language.

After reviewing the compendium, if you still have questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to e-mail us!

 

 

Superintendent's Compendium (full text)

Of Designations, Closures, Permit Requirements and Other Restrictions Imposed Under Discretionary Authority

Approved: Roseann Worley, Superintendent (signature on file), 11/24/2025

In accordance with regulations and the delegated authority provided in Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations (“36 CFR”), Chapter 1, Parts 1-7, authorized by Title 54 United States Code, Section 100751, the following provisions apply to all lands and waters administered by the National Park Service, within the boundaries of Lassen Volcanic National Park. Unless otherwise stated, these regulatory provisions apply in addition to the requirements contained in 36 CFR, Chapter 1, Parts 1-7.

Written determinations, which explain the reasoning behind the Superintendent’s use of discretionary authority, as required by Section 1.5(c), appear in this document identified by italicized print.

 

 

36 CFR §1.5 – Visiting Hours, Public Use Limits, Closures, and Area Designations for Specific Use or Activities

[a](1) Visiting Hours, Public Use Limits, and Closures

The following visiting hours and public use limits are established for all or for the listed portions of the park, and the following closures are established for all or a portion of the park to all public use or to a certain use or activity:

Visiting Hours

The park is open year round. Park facility hours of operation are varied and are posted in the park newspaper and on the Lassen Volcanic National Park website.

Public Use Limits

Note: The following limitations are instituted to protect park resources and provide for visitor and employee safety.

• The following public use limits are established for hiking group size:
  • Day hiking groups are limited to 20 people on all park trails.
  • Overnight backpacking groups are limited to 10 people.
  • Groups larger than the allowed maximum from any one organization may not meet and congregate. All groups shall maintain a minimum of ½ mile distance apart.
  • Any groups traveling off-trail (day hiking or overnight backpacking) are limited to 10 people.

Determination: The superintendent has determined that user group size limitations are required to prevent resource degradation such as trail widening, multiple trail development, dust abatement, social trails, and to protect the individual visitor experience.

• The maximum number of bicyclists riding upon any park roadway as a group is not to exceed 10.
• Groups larger than the allowed maximum from any one organization shall maintain a minimum of ½ mile distance apart.

Determination: Park roadways are narrow, winding mountain roads with limited sight distances. Larger groups of bicycles present road hazards by crowding the traffic lanes, operating below speed limits, obstructing traffic, and creating a vehicle collision hazard for the riders.

• Vehicle parking in the Drakesbad Guest Ranch parking area is prohibited except for Drakesbad Guest Ranch patrons.

Note: Parking at Drakesbad is limited and will accommodate Drakesbad Guest Ranch guests only. Public access parking is provided at the trailhead near the Warner Valley campground east of Drakesbad Guest Ranch and is posted as such.

Closures

Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS)

• The use of e-cigarettes and other Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS) will be subject to the same restrictions as tobacco smoking. All provisions of Director’s Order #50 will apply to ENDS. ENDS use will not be allowed within all facilities and vehicles that are Government owned or leased, and within concessions facilities.

Definition: The term “Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems” or ENDS encompasses all forms of vaping, the process of inhaling vaporized nicotine, flavorings and other chemicals with a battery-powered device. Electronic or e-cigarettes are a type of ENDS.

Determination: Current research indicates that vaping aerosols have at least some level of risk for nearby people in areas with limited ventilation and people with compromised health conditions. Available published studies evaluating the potential hazardous effects of the natural and/or synthetic chemicals used in ENDS indicate that potential health effects exist for users and those exposed secondhand.

Notes: Title 36 of the Code of Federal Regulations, section 2.21 (36 CFR 2.21), authorizes a superintendent to temporarily close all or a portion of a park area, building, structure, or facility to smoking. However, the definition of “smoking” under section 1.4 is limited to combustible sources such as a cigarette; it does not include the use of ENDS. The Service is moving forward with revising regulations to include ENDS under the definition of smoking in 36 CFR 1.4. Once promulgated, section 2.21 will apply to the smoking of tobacco and the use of ENDS.

Unmanned Aircraft (UAVS)

• Launching, landing, or operating an unmanned aircraft from or on lands and waters administered by the National Park Service within the boundaries of Lassen Volcanic National Park is prohibited except as approved in writing by the superintendent.

Definition: The term "unmanned aircraft" means a device that is used or intended to be used for flight in the air without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on the device, and the associated operational elements and components that are required for the pilot or system operator in command to operate or control the device (such as cameras, sensors, communication links). This term includes all types of devices that meet this definition (e.g., model airplanes, quadcopters, drones) that are used for any purpose, including for recreation or commerce.

Determination: The compendium closures required to implement this interim policy are necessary to maintain public health and safety in units of the National Park System and to protect park resources and values until the NPS can determine whether specific uses of unmanned aircraft on lands and waters administered by the NPS are appropriate and will not cause unacceptable impacts on park resources and values.

E-Bikes

• The term “e-bike” means a two- or three-wheeled cycle with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts (1 hp.). E-bikes are allowed in accordance with the provisions of 36 CFR Part 4. E-bikes are allowed on park roads, parking areas, and trails that are open to traditional bicycles. E-bikes are prohibited where traditional bicycles are prohibited under 36 CFR 4.30. Except where use of motor vehicles by the public is allowed, using the electric motor to move an e-bike without pedaling is prohibited. A person operating an e-bike is subject to the following sections of 36 CFR part 4 that apply to the use of traditional bicycles: sections 4.12, 4.13, 4.20, 4.21, 4.22, 4.23, and 4.30(h)(2)-(5).

Except as specified in this Compendium, the use of an e-bike within Lassen Volcanic National Park is governed by State law, which is adopted and made a part of this Compendium. Any violation of State law adopted by this paragraph is prohibited.

• Other Power-Driven Mobility Devices (OPDMDs): OPDMDs are defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act as “any mobility device powered by batteries, fuel, or other engines…that is used by individuals with mobility disabilities for the purpose of locomotion…or any mobility device designed to be operated in areas without defined pedestrian routes, but that is not a wheelchair.” 28 CFR §35.104. When used by persons with disabilities, the NPS considers e-bikes to be OPDMDs. Only individuals with disabilities may use OPDMDs in the park. OPDMDs are prohibited in designated wilderness areas.

  • OPDMDs may be used under the following conditions:

    • Operators must be 16 years or older.

    • The OPDMD must be a zero-emissions vehicle.

    • The OPDMD is no greater than 36 inches in width at its widest point.

    • The OPDMD speeds may not exceed 5 mph.

    • The OPDMD users must yield to pedestrians.

  • OPDMDs must be equipped with the following safety mechanisms:

    • Front, rear, and side reflectors

    • A system that enables the operator to bring the device to a controlled stop

    • A lamp emitting a white light that is visible from 300 feet in front of the OPDMD while it is in motion if operating it between half an hour after sunset to half an hour before sunrise

    • A sound emitting device that can be activated by the operator to alert nearby persons, as appropriate.

Determination: These restrictions are necessary for visitor safety and the safety of those operating OPDMDs. The use of OPDMDs by able bodied persons is prohibited in the park because they meet the definition of a motor vehicle, and off road travel is prohibited, the only exception being those individuals who meet the criteria of a disabled person as defined by the ADA.

Trails, Lakes and Streams

• Off-trail travel is prohibited:

  • On Lassen Peak, the area delineated by post and cable is closed to foot travel. This area is generally located southwest of the shoulder area below the summit at an elevation of 10360 feet. An exception is allowed during winter and spring when the terrain is snow-covered, for the purpose of skiing or snowboarding. Hikers must follow the trail’s flagged route over snow when so marked.

  • On Cinder Cone, from its base to summit and within the crater.

  • In all park hydrothermal areas. (See § 1.5 (a)(2) for list.)

Determination: Prohibiting off trail travel in these areas is necessary to protect rare and sensitive vegetation, prevent erosion, and provide for visitor safety.

• When the park road is open to vehicle traffic the Bumpass Hell trail may remain closed to use when the trail is snow or ice covered. Closure signage will be in place at the Bumpass Hell parking area, Lake Helen trail head and the Kings Creek day use trail head.

Determination: The compendium closures required to implement this interim policy are necessary to maintain public health and safety and to protect park resources and values. While covered with snow and Ice the Bumpass Hell trail is treacherous and unsafe in several areas. To protect the visiting public hazardous conditions and decrease the potential for accidents and injury the trail will be closed until it is deemed that conditions are such that the risk of accident or injury are mitigated. from

• Manzanita Creek and Lake - Nesting and wetland area is closed to all persons except authorized staff, researchers, and guided persons as marked by signs stating extent of closure. Generally described as the nesting and wetland area at the confluence of Manzanita Creek inlet and Manzanita Lake, and immediate surrounding area. Specific boundaries of closure are marked with corresponding signs.

Determination: This closure protects nesting birds and their habitat.

• Fishing: The following areas are closed to all fishing:
  • Manzanita Creek above Manzanita Lake
  • Manzanita Lake boat launch
  • Butte Lake boat launch

Determination: Closures are intended to protect fish spawning habitat, provide for visitor safety, and reduce user conflicts at the boat launch areas.

• Motorized vessels are prohibited on all park waters, including Personal Water Craft (PWC) as defined in 36 CFR 1.4(a). Engines or motors of any type are not permitted upon vessels on park waters, regardless of whether they are currently in use for propulsion.

Determination: PWC closures conform to current guidelines for the use of PWC within national parks based upon the preservation of wildlife, air and water pollution, and the protection of the visitor experience. The hazards of carrying an engine or motor on a vessel, regardless of current use, include hazardous spill situations, and temptation for usage.

• Except by permit, the following areas are closed to all vessels:

  • Boiling Springs Lake

  • Emerald Lake

  • Lake Helen

  • Reflection Lake

Determination: These lakes harbor resource concerns and scenic attributes which make them incompatible with vessel use.

Definition: "Vessel" means every description of watercraft or other artificial contrivance used or capable of being used as a means of transportation on the water. This includes rafts, paddle boards, inflatable tubes & mattresses, etc. This definition does not apply to a seaplane on the water or personal floatation devices, including inflatable arm rings.

• Structures such as tents, tarps, EZ-ups, and other shade shelters are prohibited within 1/2 mile of Lake Helen and in Upper Kings Creek Meadow except by permit only.

Determination: Lake Helen and Upper Kings Creek meadow and their viewsheds are iconic parts of the park’s beauty and are photographed by many visitors. Prohibiting large structures helps preserve the scenic and cultural value of these areas.

• Leaving watercraft such as kayaks, canoes, and inflatable devices unattended along the shores or within view of Manzanita Lake outside of the designated boat launch in excess of 30 minutes is allowed by permit only.

Determination: This lake and its viewshed are iconic parts of the park’s beauty and are photographed by many visitors. Reducing the amount of unattended property along lake shore helps preserve the scenic and cultural value of this area.

Administrative areas and government facilities

• The Lassen Volcanic Adventure camp is closed to all persons except registered camp users or authorized individuals.
• The following areas are closed to special events within the park:
  • Maintenance and housing areas at Manzanita Lake.
  • Government housing areas.
  • Administrative Headquarters Site at Mineral (excluding the Mineral Ball Field and the Mineral Conference Room) by permit only.

Determination: These areas are designated for administrative use only. The areas are not compatible or suitable for public use.

Preservation of Natural, Cultural and Archeological Resources

• Possession of power drills or the use of the same in undeveloped areas (e.g. rock or ice climbing routes) is prohibited.

Determination: Many areas in the park backcountry and wilderness are conducive to rock and or ice climbing. Power drills add to the proliferation of fixed permanent anchors and are prohibited in wilderness by the Wilderness Act.

[a](2) The following areas have been designated for a specific use or activity, under the following restrictions and/or conditions.

Hydrothermal Areas

Access to hydrothermal sites:

• Entering into or upon any hydrothermal area other than by using the trails and boardwalks provided is prohibited.
• “Hotpotting,” “hottubbing,” or any other form of bathing in hydrothermal areas or waters issuing from hydrothermal sources is prohibited.
• Throwing, kicking, or otherwise placing any object into hydrothermal areas is prohibited.

Hydrothermal sites include, but are not limited to:

• Sulphur Works

• West Sulphur Creek Basin

• Fart Gulch

• Little Hot Springs Valley

• Bumpass Hell

• Terminal Geyser

• Cold Boiling Lake

• Devils Kitchen

• Hot Springs Creek between Devils Kitchen and the Drake Lake trail crossing

• Boiling Springs Lake

Determination: Boardwalks provide protection from geological hazards due to thin crusted ground, hot water and mud. Walking off designated walkways exposes travelers to hazards such as breaking through apparently firm ground potentially causing injury and death. Hydrothermal areas also present inherent hazards to visitors and employees. These sites are fragile geological and biological resources susceptible to irreversible degradation and damage.

Filming, still photography, and audio recording activity may require a permit, consistent with 54 U.S.C. 100905.

• Filming, still photography, and audio recording activity that occurs in closed areas, requires exclusive use of a site or area, or involves a set or staging equipment other than handheld equipment (such as a tripod, monopod, and handheld lighting equipment) requires a permit, unless the activity is affiliated with an activity or event that has been allowed under a written authorization, such as a special use permit.

• Filming, still photography, and audio recording that involves more than eight individuals requires a permit, unless the NPS has specifically notified an individual or group that a permit is not required, or if the activity is affiliated with an activity or event that has been allowed under a written authorization, such as a special use permit.

• If a permit is required for the reasons stated above, or if the NPS otherwise determines and then notifies an individual or group that a permit is required for a filming, still photography, or audio recording activity, then engaging in that activity without a permit is prohibited. Violating a term or condition of a permit issued by the NPS for a filming, still photography, or audio recording activity is prohibited, and may result in the suspension or revocation of the permit, in addition to any penalties that may apply under 36 CFR 1.3.

Determination: Federal law at 54 U.S.C. 100905 states that permits and fees are not required for filming, still photography, or audio recording in park areas if certain requirements are met. These requirements address various topics, including, but not limited to, group size, location, equipment, potential impacts to resources and visitors, and the likelihood that the NPS will incur related administrative costs. If any of these requirements are not met, the law allows the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the NPS, to require a permit for the subject activity. Permit requirements are imposed by the superintendent under discretionary authority provided by 36 CFR 1.5(a)(2), which allows the superintendent to impose conditions or restrictions on a use or activity, consistent with applicable legislation, to implement management responsibilities. The general regulations for permits in 36 CFR 1.6 do not apply to permits issued for filming, still photography, and audio recording, which instead are governed by the statutory provisions in 54 U.S.C. 100905. The imposition of permit requirements, on a case-by-case basis, for filming, still photography, or audio recording does not require rulemaking under 36 CFR 1.5(b). Requiring a permit with reasonable terms and conditions in accordance with statutory requirements at 54 U.S.C. 100905 is not highly controversial, will not result in a significant alteration in the public use pattern of the System unit, will not adversely affect the System unit’s natural, aesthetic, scenic or cultural values, or require a long-term or significant modification in the resource management objectives of the System unit, because the permit requirement is limited in time and scope to the specific activities authorized by the permit, which contain terms and conditions that protect the values, resources, and visitors of the System unit, and implements federal law.

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36 CFR §1.6 – Activities that Require a Permit

[f] Activities that require a permit

The following is a compilation of those activities for which a permit from the superintendent is required:

• 2.1 Preservation of natural, cultural and archeological resources
  • (c)(1) Collection or consumption of any fruits, nuts or berries of locally grown plants, in quantities greater than one pint.
• 2.4 Weapons, traps and nets
  • (e)(1) To carry or possess a weapon to support research activities
  • (e)(2) To carry or possess a weapon for emergency use on pack trains or saddle horses
  • (e)(3) To carry or possess a weapon for officials in performance of official duties.
• 2.5 Research Specimens
  • (a) Specimen Collection
• 2.10 Camping and food storage
  • (a) Backcountry camping and camping in designated frontcountry campgrounds
• 2.12 Audio Disturbances
  • (a)(2) Audio disturbances, use of power saw
  • (a)(3) Operating portable motor or engine
  • (a)(4) Audio disturbances, operation of a public-address system
• 2.17 Aircraft and air delivery
  • (c)(1) Removal of downed aircraft
• 2.22 Property
  • (a)(2) Backpackers leaving a vehicle parked at a trailhead during an overnight backpacking trip must display wilderness parking slip.
• 2.23 Recreation Fees
  • (c) Suspension of recreation fees
• 2.35 Possession and consumption of alcoholic beverages in park buildings and facilities
• 2.37 Noncommercial soliciting
• 2.38 Explosives
  • (a) using, possessing, storing or transporting
  • (b) using or possessing fireworks and firecrackers
• 2.50 Special Events
  • (a) Sporting events, pageants, regattas, public spectator attractions, entertainments, ceremonies and similar events
• 2.51 Public assemblies, meetings
  • (a) Public assemblies, meetings, gatherings, demonstrations, parades, and other public activities
• 2.52 Sale and distribution of printed matter
• 2.60 Livestock use and agriculture
  • (b) Activities authorized pursuant to paragraph (a)
• 2.61 Residing on Federal lands
  • (a) Residing in park areas pursuant to terms and conditions of a permit
• 2.62 Memorialization
  • (b) Scattering of human ashes
• 3.3 Boating and water use activities
• 4.11 Load, weight, and size limits
  • (a) Superintendent may designate more restrictive limits and require permits for exceeding said limits.
• 5.1 Advertisements
• 5.2 Sale of intoxicants
• 5.3 Business operations
• 5.4 Commercial passenger-carrying motor vehicles
• 5.5 Some filming, still photography, and audio recordings.
  • Some filming, still photography, and audio recording (depends upon the facts and circumstances; contact the park for more information). 36 CFR 1.5(a)(2) and 54 U.S.C. 100905.
• 5.6 Commercial vehicles
  • (c) The superintendent shall issue permits for commercial vehicles used on park area roads when such use is necessary for access to private lands situated within or adjacent to the park area, to which access is otherwise not available.
• 5.7 Construction of buildings or other facilities
• 6.9 Solid waste disposal site
  • Permit required to operate a solid waste disposal site within boundaries of the park.

Determination: Permitting activities ensures that public health and safety, environmental or scenic values, natural or cultural resources, scientific research, implementation of management responsibilities, proper allocation and use of facilities, or visitor use activities will not be adversely impacted.

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36 CFR § 2.1 Preservation of Natural, Cultural and Archeological Resources

[a](4) Wood that is downed and dead may be collected for front country campground firewood use:

• Within 100 feet of road.
• Less than 4 inches in diameter.
• Collected without the use of gas or electric saws.

Determination: Collecting downed and dead wood for use in the front country campgrounds is allowed to help with the reduction of Wild Land Fire fuels immediately adjacent to park roads and campgrounds.

[c](1) The following fruits, nuts, berries and plant materials may be gathered by hand for personal use or consumption only, with a possession limit of one pint per person per day:

• Pinaceae, nuts of pines
• Caprifoliaceae, fruit of the blue elderberry
• Fagaceae, fruits of the bush chinquapin
• Grossulariaceae, fruits of currants and gooseberries
• Rosaceae, fruits of serviceberry, choke cherry, raspberry, thimbleberry
• Rosaceae, fruits of woods rose
• Ericaceae, fruits of western blueberry

Determination: Collection of small amounts of the above mentioned species has been determined to not adversely affect park wild life, the reproductive potential of the plant, or otherwise adversely affect park resources.

 

36 CFR § 2.2 Wildlife Protection

[d] Transporting lawfully taken wildlife through the park is permitted under the following conditions:

• The carcass must be tagged in accordance with state and federal law
• Game must be kept out of sight
• Wildlife must be declared at the park’s entrance stations when open.
• Legally taken game must be transported from the entrance gate to the exit gate on the public road system in the most direct route and are not allowed overnight in the park, except where lawfully taken game is possessed by a resident within the park.

[e] Use of an artificial light for purposes of viewing wildlife is prohibited throughout the park.

 

36 CFR § 2.3 Fishing

See also section 1.5 for closures.

[a] The following restrictions apply:

• Manzanita Lake is catch and release only.
• In Manzanita Lake, the method of take shall be limited to artificial lures with a single barbless hook.

Determination: See California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations 2025 CA Freshwater Sport Fishing Regulations v11

[d](2):

• The following waterways are designated for the use of non-living bait:
  • Kings Creek
  • Mill Creek
  • Hat Creek

Determination:The above waterways contain only non-native trout species. All other waterways and lakes contain native fish species.

 

36 CFR § 2.4 Weapons, Traps and Nets

[e](2)

• The Superintendent may issue a permit to carry or possess a weapon to persons in charge of pack trains or saddle horses for emergency use, solely for dispatching injured stock. The following terms and conditions apply:
  • The weapon must remain unloaded until there is a circumstance in which an animal must be dispatched.
  • Weapon is not displayed or openly carried.

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36 CFR § 2.10 Camping and Food Storage

[a] Designated Sites or Areas

The following locations are designated for camping:

• Southwest Walk-In Campground
• Kohm-Ya-Mah-Nee Visitor Center parking lot (RV only)
• Summit Lake South Campground
• Summit Lake North Campground
• Summit Lake Stock Campground
• Volcano Adventure Camp (authorized groups only)
• Lost Creek Group Campground
• Manzanita Lake Campground
• Butte Lake Campground
• Juniper Lake Campground
• Warner Valley Campground
• Backcountry Areas as described in § 2.10(b)(9)

Determination: The designation of specific, hardened frontcountry campsites focuses use in limited areas, leaving other areas of the park in a natural state.

[b](9)The following conditions have been established for camping in the park:

Frontcountry Camping

• Camping in the parks developed campgrounds is limited to 14 days per year, per campground, except Summit Lake and Juniper Lake Campgrounds, which are limited to 7 days per year.
• Campsites may not be saved or pre-paid for another party.
• Generator use in campgrounds is permitted only during the hours: 8:00am - 10:00am; 12:00pm - 2:00pm; and 5:00pm - 7:00pm Generators are not permitted in tent-only loops.
• A maximum of 2 vehicles is allowed at each campsite, except designated group sites. Motorhomes, tow vehicles, any trailer, cars and trucks each count as one vehicle.
• Campsite capacity is limited to 6 persons and 3 tents.
• Group campsite capacity is 25 persons and 12 tents.
• Group campsite capacity at Juniper Lake campground and Manzanita Lake is 15 persons per site and 8 tents.
• Group campsite vehicles maximum at Manzanita Lake group site is 4 vehicles. Additional vehicles must be parked off site.
• Though the Southwest Walk-in Campground is for tents only, RVs and trailers may park overnight in the campground parking lot. Fees still apply. Vehicles must stay on paved areas and may not intrude into adjacent parking spaces.
• Southwest Walk-In Campground may be closed to walk-in camping during times of deep snow accumulation. Alternate camping areas will be designated in the immediate area.
• Loop D at Manzanita Lake and Loop E at South Summit Lake are designated for tent camping only.

Note: If a vehicle has bathroom facilities, kitchen facilities, or is intended for sleeping in then it will not be allowed in a designated tent only camping area for sleeping purposes. Tent trailers will be treated as a recreational vehicle.

Backcountry Camping

• See also §1.5(a) for public use limits and §2.22(a)(2) for leaving vehicles unattended.
• Backcountry overnight camping is limited to a total of 30 days per calendar year
• Camping by stock groups is prohibited except at camp sites equipped with stock facilities; see §2.16(g).
• Camping within 100 ft of a flowing stream, river, or body of water is prohibited.
• Camping is prohibited within a ½ mile of any developed area or park road open to vehicular traffic, and/or within sight of same.
• Camping is prohibited within ¼ mile of any hydrothermal feature as well as the following:
  • Cascade Springs
  • Cinder Cone / Painted Dunes
  • Cliff Lake
  • Crags Lake
  • Crumbaugh Lake
  • Echo Lake
  • Trail from Summit Lake to Echo Lake
  • Kings Creek Falls
  • Kings Creek Meadows - Upper and Lower
  • Lassen Peak
  • Little Willow Lake
  • Mt. Harkness Summit

(d) The following conditions are established to regulate food storage

• Food, toiletries and scented items must be properly stored when items are not being transported, consumed or prepared for consumption, or when items are unattended (greater than six feet away from an awake person).

Backcountry Areas

• Any person camping within the Lassen Volcanic National Park backcountry is required to store food items, items carrying food scents, and toiletries in a bear resistant food storage container that is listed on The Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee (IBC) Certified products list allowed for use in the park by the NPS.
• All other food storage systems, including hanging, are prohibited.
• When requested by park staff, any person camping, intending to camp or permitted to camp within the Lassen Volcanic National Park back country must provide proof that they are in possession of an approved bear-resistant food storage container.
• An exception to the above requirements is granted for the winter season beginning December 1^st and ending April 15^th.

Frontcountry Areas

• Any person camping within the Lassen Volcanic National Park front country designated campgrounds must store food items, items carrying food scents (including coolers) and toiletries in a fully enclosed hard-sided vehicle, or the metal food lockers provided, or the IBC Certified products identified above.
• NPS provided food lockers are not exclusive use and may be shared by multiple sites. As such there is no reasonable expectation of privacy in NPS provided food lockers.
• Locking of a NPS provided food locker is prohibited.

Determination: Food storage regulations balance visitor use and protection of Lassen’s wildlife, including, but not limited to, bears. Food, toiletries, and scented items must be stored properly to ensure that park wildlife does not access it. Food storage methods other than those described above are not approved by Lassen Volcanic National Park and/or have shown to be ineffective in preventing wildlife from retrieving food.

 

36 CFR § 2.13 Fires

[a](1)

Conditions on Lighting or Maintaining a Fire

• A fire may be ignited and maintained only by using fuel sources designed and commonly used for warmth or the preparation of food, such as charcoal briquettes or natural firewood. Lighting or maintaining a fire with other materials including, but not limited to, flammable liquids, garbage, fireworks, plastics, aerosol canisters, batteries, or other manufactured or synthetic materials, is prohibited.

The following areas are designated for the lighting of fires:

• In established front-country campgrounds and day-use areas, fires may be lit & maintained only in park-provided grills or fire rings, and flame height may not exceed 2 feet. This applies to all fire types, including charcoal. An exception is made for self-contained charcoal grills, which may be used on the ground or cement tables only at the King’s Creek Picnic Area; coals must be disposed of in the receptacles provided. Fires are not permitted in any other area of the park, including backcountry and wilderness areas.

[a](2) Stoves and Lanterns

• Stoves that use biomass material (including wood and charcoal) are not permitted in the backcountry and may only be used in the same front country locations as described in [a](1) above. Only small, liquid or gas fuel stoves are permitted in the backcountry / wilderness.

[b] Conditions for extinguishing fires

• Fires shall be extinguished using sufficient amounts of water to render the burned wood and ashes cool to the touch. This is best accomplished by stirring the coals and turning over large pieces of wood in conjunction with copious amounts of water.

Determination: This action is necessary for the maintenance of public health and safety, protection of environmental or scenic values, protection of natural or cultural resources, and the implementation of management responsibilities. Materials other than approved combustibles – especially fire accelerants and substances prone to wind transport or explosion – creates serious risks when used to light or maintain fires. These combustibles can ignite or spread wildfires that directly threaten people and valuable resources and assets. The burning of manufactured or synthetic materials can contribute to air pollution, contaminate soil and water, and be toxic to humans and the environment. Less restrictive measures, such as an education campaign informing visitors of the risks of using certain materials to light or maintain a fire, would not be commensurate with the substantial risks associated with those activities and could lead to adverse outcomes that might be prevented by establishing an enforceable condition.

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36 CFR § 2.14 Sanitation and Refuse

[a](4) Draining refuse from a trailer or other vehicle is prohibited except in facilities provided for such purposes:

• Recreational vehicle black water may be disposed of only at the Manzanita Lake Dump Station.
• Grey wastewater may only be disposed of at the Manzanita Lake Dump Station, comfort station utility sinks, or vault toilets.

NOTE: Food particles found in waste water attract wildlife and nuisance insects.

[a](5) Bathing, or washing food, clothing, dishes, or other property at public outlets, fixtures, or pools, except in those locations designated for such purpose, is prohibited.

• No areas are designated for these purposes.

[b] Disposal of human body waste in undeveloped areas

• Toilet paper and hygiene products used in the backcountry must be packed out for disposal, not buried or burned.

 

36 CFR § 2.15 Pets

[a](1) Areas closed to the possession of pets

• Pets are prohibited on all park trails, in park lakes and waterways, in undeveloped areas of the park (backcountry and Wilderness), visitor centers, and all government buildings open to the public. This applies whether the animal is walking on the ground or being carried.
• Pets are restricted to within 10 feet of all roadways, parking lots, campgrounds, and picnic areas.
• Pets are permitted on roadways as long as they are leashed. When snow depth is sufficient for skiing or snowshoeing, pets are no longer permitted on the unplowed roadway.

[a](3) Conditions for leaving pets unattended and tied to an object:

• Pets may not be left unattended in areas or in circumstances where they will create a nuisance to other visitors or cause a conflict with wildlife.
• Pets will not be left in areas where food, water, shade, ventilation and other basic needs are inadequate.

Determination: This requirement is intended to ensure pets do not harass wildlife or disturb park visitors and also to ensure pets are properly cared for in the park. Pets may be left in an RV or vehicle as long as the requirements in 2.15(a)(3) are met.

[a](5) Conditions for disposal of pet excrement

• Pet excrement must be either removed from the park or disposed of in a refuse container.

(e) Pets may be kept by park residents under the following conditions:

• Permanent park employees residing in the park may keep pets in accordance with Lassen Volcanic National Park policy found in the Lassen Volcanic National Park Housing Management Plan, Chapter 7.2.3
• Pets must be kept on a leash and under owner control at all times.

 

36 CFR § 2.16 Horses and Pack Animals

[a] The following animals are designated as pack animals:

• Horses
• Mules
• Burros
• Llamas

[b] Saddle horses and pack animals are not allowed off trail anywhere. They are allowed on maintained trails except those listed below.

• Manzanita Lake Trail
• Lassen Peak Trail
• Trails on Cinder Cone
• Reflection Lake Trail
• Bumpass Hell Trail
• Trails & boardwalks within the Devil's Kitchen and Bumpass Hell thermal areas.
• Stock animals must be kept at least 100 feet from lakes, except when trails pass within 100 feet of lakes. At these locations, stock animals are not to be allowed to stop and obtain water.

[d] Free-trailing or loose-herding:

• No areas designated.

[g] Additional conditions:

• It is prohibited to ride or tie stock animals in campgrounds, picnic areas or within the immediate vicinity of eating or sleeping establishments or other areas of public gatherings, except as described below.
• Stock parties camping overnight are limited to one of the following designated sites: reservations are required via www.recreation.gov.
  • Summit Lake: maximum of 8 animals and 10 people with parking limited to 6 licensed vehicles.
  • Butte Lake: maximum of 8 animals and 10 people with parking limited to 6 licensed vehicles.
  • Juniper Lake: maximum of 8 animals and 10 people with parking limited to 4 licensed vehicles.
  • The following conditions apply to these areas:
    • Certified weed free feed must be provided by the camper.
    • Sites must be cleaned of manure and uneaten food on a daily basis. Refuse must be raked, bagged and deposited into a dumpster.
    • Watering facilities must be used when they are provided.
• At times when trail and weather and trail conditions warrant (such as trees across the trail or wet soil) additional stock use conditions (including closure of a trail to stock use) may be established.
• No overnight stock use is permitted in the backcountry.
• Stock parties are limited to 12 animals in a single group.
• Stock parties are limited to use of approved trails only (as listed in this document under § 2.16 [b]).

Determination: Off-trail livestock use has a significant impact on vegetation, wetlands, leads to erosion, and can lead to the spread of invasive plant species.

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36 CFR § 2.18 Snowmobiles

[c] Snowmobiles, all-terrain vehicle (ATV) and universal terrain vehicle (UTV) use are allowed by permit only.

36 CFR § 2.19 Winter Activities

[c] Ramp and jump construction is prohibited.

Determination: This restriction insures that public health and safety, environmental or scenic values, natural or cultural resources, scientific research, implementation of management responsibilities, or visitor use activities will not be adversely impacted.

 

36 CFR § 2.21 Smoking

[a] Smoking is prohibited in the following locations. See also §1.5(a)(1) regarding ENDS.

• In the interior space of all NPS-owned, leased, or administered buildings or vehicles.
• Within 25 feet of any entrance or exit primarily accessed by the visiting public.
• Within 25 feet of any entrance or exit not generally accessed by the public, where smoking would result in smoke traveling through doorways, windows, air ducts or other openings.
• The Lassen Volcanic Adventure camp is closed to all use of tobacco or nicotine products at such times that youth groups are present.

Determination: It is the policy of the NPS to provide a smoke-free environment for its employees and members of the visiting public. [DO #50D: Smoking Policy] The use of tobacco at the Lassen Volcanic Adventure camp while youth groups are present is inconsistent with the purpose of the facility and it’s use as an educational camp for youth.

36 CFR § 2.22 Property

[a](2) Property may be left unattended for periods longer than 24 hours in the following areas and under the following conditions:

• Visitors on overnight backcountry trips are permitted to leave vehicles unattended in parking areas for the period of time specified on their overnight backcountry use permit. Parking slip must be displayed.
• Visitors with overnight accommodations in lodges or campgrounds may leave their vehicles unattended for the period of their stay.

Determination: This regulation is to prevent the abandonment of vehicles, provide for visitor safety and protect wildlife from acquiring improperly stored food. This regulation does not apply to the seizure of vehicles or property as part of a criminal investigation or infraction of the law.

36 CFR §2.35 Alcohol

[a](3)(i) The Lassen Volcanic Adventure camp is closed to all consumption and possession of alcohol at such times that youth groups are present.

Determination: The possession and consumption of alcohol at the Lassen Volcanic Adventure camp while youth groups are present is inconsistent with the purpose of the facility and it’s use as an educational camp for youth.

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36 CFR § 2.51 Demonstrations

Lassen Volcanic National Park will provide adequate locations and means by which citizens may gather and exercise their rights to peaceful assembly under the 1^st Amendment. Lassen Volcanic National Park will monitor 1^st Amendment activities to ensure the safety of the visitor and resources, in a way that does not infringe upon the lawful exercise of 1^st Amendment rights. Activities will be managed to reduce conflict between groups, and to ensure that the activity does not infringe upon the rights of other park visitors and to be free of harassment, while having full access to park areas.

(b)

• Demonstrations of more than 25 people are allowed within park areas designated as available under paragraph (c)(2) when the superintendent has issued a permit for the activity.
• See 36 CFR §2.51(b)(1) for permitting criteria.

Determination: Demonstrations involving 25 persons or fewer may be held without a permit in designated park areas, provided that the requirements in §2.51(b) are met. The 25-person maximum for the small group permit exception may be reduced pursuant to §2.51(b)(3). For specific designated areas, see Demonstration Area Maps.

[c](2) The following areas have locations that are designated as available for demonstrations:

• Manzanita Lake amphitheater (by permit only)
• Sidewalk leading from the Mineral Headquarters building visitor parking lot to the front of the headquarters building
• Visitor parking area adjacent to the Loomis Ranger Station
• Lassen Peak Trail parking lot
• South Summit Lake
• Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center
• Near the Manzanita Lake camper store

Determination: Pursuant to §2.51(c)(2) the superintendent must designate on a map, which must be available in the office of the superintendent and by public notice, the locations designated as available for demonstrations and the sale or distribution of printed matter.

 

 

36 CFR § 2.52 Sale or Distribution of Printed Matter

[b]

• The sale or distribution of printed matter by more than 25 persons is allowed within park areas designated as available under §2.51(c)(2) (see above) when the superintendent has issued a permit. See attached Maps.
• See §2.52(b) for permitting criteria

Determination: Sale or distribution activity by 25 persons or fewer may be conducted without a permit in designated park areas, provided that the requirements in §2.52(b) are met. The 25-person maximum for the small group permit exception may be reduced for a designated available area, pursuant to §2.52(b)(3).

36 CFR § 2.62 Memorialization

[b] Scattering of human ashes

• Scattering of human ashes is allowed by permit only. All remains must meet the appropriate state regulations and permits prior to dispersion.

36 CFR § 3.8 Boating Operations Prohibited

[h] Launch and recovery of vessels

• Boats, kayaks, canoes and other watercraft or vessels may be put in and taken out of the following lakes only at the designated launch area.
  • Manzanita Lake
  • Butte Lake

36 CFR § 4.11 Load, Weight, Length and Width Limitations

[a] Designated limits are:

• Vehicles with widths in excess of 102 inches (8.5 Ft) and vehicle-trailer combinations in excess of 540 inches (45 feet) in total length are prohibited from traveling on the Lassen National Park Highway, Juniper lake road, Butte lake road and Warner Valley road.
• Vehicles in excess of these limits are allowed by permit only.

Determination: Due to the limited number of pullouts, tight curves, and soft shoulders vehicles in excess of 45 feet are prohibited except by permit to provide for public safety.

36 CFR § 4.21 Speed Limits

[b] The maximum speed limit on all public roads in the park is 45 mph or as posted.

36 CFR § 4.30 Bicycle Use

(a) The use of a bicycle is prohibited except on park roads, in parking areas, and on routes designated for bicycle use.

• Bicycles and e-bikes are allowed on the park road when it is snow free but closed to public vehicle use.
• Bicycles and e-bikes are prohibited on the park road when it is snow covered and closed to public vehicle use.

36 CFR § 5.5 Filming, still photography, and audio recordings

• Commercial filming, still photography, and audio recordings will be managed under the conditions set forth in 54 U.S.C. 100905.
• A permit may be required. (See 36 CFR (a)(2))
• The park may charge location fees, cost recovery cost, including administrative and personnel cost.

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Lassen Volcanic National Park CCTV Policy Statement (for compendium use)

In accordance with National Park Service Law Enforcement Reference Manual 9 (RM-9), notice is hereby given that Lassen Volcanic National Park uses Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) security camera monitoring.

The park’s use of Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) for law enforcement and security purposes will only be to visually monitor public park areas and public activities where no constitutionally protected reasonable expectation of privacy exists. Such CCTV use – which will have adequate privacy and First Amendment safeguards – will be to help ensure public safety and security; facilitate the detection, investigation, prevention, and deterrence of terrorist attack and crime; help ensure the safety of citizens and officers; help assist in the proper allocation and deployment of law enforcement and public safety resources; and help facilitate the protection of the innocent and the apprehension and prosecution of criminals. (RM-9, 26.1)

This policy does not restrict the official use of CCTV in government administrative areas, including administrative buildings, jail holding facilities (RM-9, 26.3.7), revenue collection sites, etc., where the government may record/monitor its facilities. For example, the government may perform unrestricted video/audio recording at revenue collection points (entrance stations, visitor center counters, etc.). This policy does not restrict the use of an Audio/Visual Recording Device (AVRD) in patrol vehicles or officer-worn recording devices used by commissioned rangers. (RM-9, 26.1).

Operation of CCTV cameras, maintenance of recorded images and use of recorded images will be in accordance with NPS and Department policy and applicable laws and regulations. (RM-9, 26.1-26.4) No person will be targeted or monitored merely because of race, religion, gender, sex, disability, national origin, or political affiliation or views. (RM-9, 26.4.2)

Nothing in this policy statement is intended to create any rights, privileges, or benefits not otherwise recognized by law.

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Amendments & Temporary Closures

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