Lassen Volcanic National Park & Drakesbad Guest Ranch in California

August 2009

Our August adventure started out with a bang- and I mean that literally. We had a flat tire on our tent trailer. And to make things worse, we were on an interstate highway. Thank the good Lord this was resolved easily and the pets all enjoyed the attention that received from the tow truck to the tire shop.

So back on the road again we continued towards Lassen. Once we arrived in the Lassen area we was hoping to get a camp site at Lake Almanor. All the sites were taken! So, no worries- we knew there were camp sites in Lassen's National Volcanic Park since only half of them can be reserved. The other half is done at a first come first serve basis. The ranger one month earlier told us reservations were not necessary. We did not question this, so to our surprise, there were no sites available. So I recommend reservations! Nonetheless, we did find a small campground right outside of the park. There was running water and vault toilets. We were ready to camp.

During our week at the Lassen area we did many fun things. We took the dogs fishing in Lake Almanor, we hiked some beautiful trails, we rented horses, and we explored. I would absolutely recommend visiting the area. It was amazing.

The horseback rentals we chose were through Drakesbad Guest Ranch. That was an excellent choice. They have guided tours into Lassen Park. The one we chose was about 2 1/2 hours and took us to an area known as Devil's Kitchen where you tie up your horse and explore for 20 minutes or so. It was amazing to see these volcanic formations.

Once back at the ranch we met up with the hosts Ed and Billie Fiebiger who have been the Ranch hosts for 18 years. All guests, whether new or returning, are treated like family and have come to expect the positively outstanding service offered by these dedicated managers. (In 2006 Drakesbad Guest Ranch was awarded the “Excellence in Lodging and Hospitality” award from the California Lodging Industry Association.) There are a wide variety of outdoor activities for guests to enjoy at Drakesbad including; wildlife viewing, fishing, horseback riding. canoeing on Dream Lake and hiking. Everyone should stop by this place at least once in their life.