Upcoming & Latest Events
Top Attractions & Places To Visit
Lassen County, California | A Gateway to Wilderness and History
Located in the northeastern part of California, Lassen County is a scenic region known for its rugged wilderness, outdoor recreation opportunities, and rich history. With its towering mountains, lush forests, and pristine lakes, Lassen County attracts nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The county also holds historical significance, from Native American heritage to its Gold Rush-era settlements.
Cities in Lassen County
Counties of High Sierra
Main Attractions in Lassen County
Lassen Volcanic National Park
Lassen Volcanic National Park is one of California’s most unique and geologically active parks, known for its bubbling hot springs, fumaroles, and the active volcano that bears its name. Visitors can trek to the summit of Lassen Peak, which provides panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. The park’s geothermal features, such as Bumpass Hell, display boiling mud pots and steam vents, revealing the volcanic activity that sculpted the area. The park also provides a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, fishing, and snowshoeing in the winter.
Eagle Lake
Eagle Lake is California’s second-largest natural lake and a popular fishing, boating, and camping destination. It is a popular fishing destination because of its population of Eagle Lake trout, a species that can only be found in this lake. The lake’s crystal-clear waters are great for kayaking and swimming, while the nearby forests and mountains provide chances for trekking and wildlife observation. The lake’s numerous campgrounds make it ideal for family-friendly outdoor excursions.
Biz Johnson Trail
The Biz Johnson Trail, which spans 25 miles from Susanville to Westwood, is a scenic multi-use trail that follows the route of an old railroad line. The trail traverses through a variety of scenery, including riverbank meadows, woodlands, and canyons. In the summer, it is popular with hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders, but in the winter, it transforms into a gorgeous cross-country skiing and snowshoeing track. The trail also passes through the famous Devil’s Corral Trestle, which is a must-see for anybody interested in local history.
Susanville Ranch Park
Susanville Ranch Park, near the county seat of Susanville, has nearly 1,100 acres of open space for outdoor enjoyment. The park has a network of paths for hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian riding that offer stunning views of the surrounding valley and mountains. The park’s diverse terrain, which includes forests, meadows, and streams, attracts nature lovers and birdwatchers.
Fort Sage Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Area
For those looking for a more thrilling adventure, the Fort Sage OHV Area has over 22,000 acres of open terrain for off-road vehicles. The area includes approved paths for motorbikes, ATVs, and 4×4 vehicles, making it a popular destination for off-road enthusiasts. With breathtaking vistas of the high desert and surrounding mountains, it’s a thrilling way to experience Lassen County’s rough landscape.
Lassen Historical Museum
The Lassen Historical Museum, located in Susanville, provides an overview of the county’s rich history. The exhibits contain items from the Gold Rush era, Native American ancestry, and early pioneer life in Lassen County. The museum also has displays about the construction of the Lassen County Courthouse and the growth of the local railroad system.
Antelope Lake
Antelope Lake, located in the Sierra Nevada, is yet another magnificent outdoor leisure site. The lake allows for boating, fishing, and camping, with various campgrounds and picnic spaces available. Surrounded by forests and mountains, it’s an idyllic location for a weekend getaway or a day of relaxation by the water.
Famous Cities and Towns in Lassen County
Susanville
Susanville, the county seat and main city in Lassen County, serves as the region’s core of activity. Susanville, which began as a Gold Rush hamlet, has evolved into a bustling community with both historic and modern attractions. Visitors can explore the Lassen Historical Museum, wander around Riverside Park, or see the historic Lassen County Courthouse, a wonderfully maintained 19th-century edifice. The community also serves as a hub for local outdoor destinations like as Lassen Volcanic National Park and the Biz Johnson Trail. Susanville hosts annual events including the Lassen County Fair and the Susanville Air Fair, which attract both locals and visitors.
Westwood
Westwood, a small community in western Lassen County, is well-known for its long forestry history. It was originally a thriving company town for the Red River Lumber Company, and it is home to the world’s largest Paul Bunyan statue, a tribute to its logging history. Today, Westwood serves as a gateway to Mountain Meadows Reservoir and the Caribou Wilderness Area, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Janesville
Janesville, a little town south of Susanville, offers a quieter, more rural lifestyle. Its proximity to natural attractions such as Antelope Lake and the Plumas National Forest makes it an excellent choice for nature lovers. Janesville also hosts community events such as the Janesville Jamboree, which draws locals together for food, games, and entertainment.
Herlong
Herlong, located near the southern boundary of Lassen County, has a distinct history as a former military town. Herlong, founded during World War II as a depot for the Sierra Army Depot, was once a thriving hamlet that supported the military facility. Today, it has a small population but is a reminder of Lassen County’s military history. Its proximity to the Fort Sage OHV Area attracts off-road enthusiasts.
