best place to stay when visiting Lassen Volcanic National park
Chester is a cozy town located on the shores of Lake Almanor in the shadow of Lassen Peak. This sleepy community sits along the banks of the Feather River and is surrounded by breathtaking meadows, forests, and streams.
One of many festivals and events held in Chester 
Ax Throwing Competition
Ice Carving at Chilly Chili Cook-off 
Staying warm around the fire pit 
Enjoying the 4th of July Parade 
Sawing Contest at the Maidu Logging Jamboree 
Trick-or-treat 
Chester Fun Ron on the 4th of July 
Barney at Chester 4th of July Parade 
Almanor Art Show 
Bounce House Ax Throwing Competition
4th of July Craft Fair Chester and the Lake Almanor Basin offer an array of diverse outdoor activities to enjoy. The lake offers water sports, swimming and fabulous fishing. And, the area has many dining opportunities, three golf courses open to the public, and a variety of entertainment opportunities.
Between Lassen Volcanic National Park, Lassen National Forest and lands held by Feather River Land Trust, Chester is a great base camp to several hundred miles of trails. The PCT is a few miles west on Highway 36, making Chester a great half-way place in Northern California for PCT hikers to stop and re-supply.
When traveling the southern portion of the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway (Highway 36), Chester offers the perfect place to stretch your legs and stay awhile to explore the natural beauty that surrounds you.
The town itself has several restaurants, unique shops, 2 museums, and a public library. Many annual events occur here including arts and craft shows, concerts, car shows, holiday celebrations, and summer farmers markets. While much of the town closes down for the evening, take a peaceful stroll from downtown on the 1.8 mile Collins Pine Nature Loop Trail along the Feather River.
Enjoy a picnic in the summer or cross-coutry skiing in the winter at the Olsen Barn on the eastern edge of Chester, at the corner of Hwy 36 and Melissa Street. The Olse Barn is a favorite spot for photographers and painters. The area is well known for birding, several barn owls make the Olsen Barn home.
The takeaway
Chester is ideal for adventurous travelers seeking to unplug and get away from it all. It’s the best place to stay when visiting Lassen Volcanic National Park.
Chester Essentials
- Lassen Volcanic National Park is open year round, you do not need a reservation to enter the park.
- Road access, services, and activities in Lassen are limited in the snowy season.
- Once evening comes, most of the town closes down. But if you want to hike and be outdoors, it is the place for you.
- From June 16th through Oct. on Thursday’s visit the Farmer’s Market from 4 -7 pm at Chester Park.
- Not all businesses and services are open during the winter months. Be sure to check hours to make sure they’re open before visiting!
- Population of Chester: 2,000
- Elevation of Chester: 4,534
Places to Stay Near Chester
True Lakeside Resort & Amenities. Full Kitchens, Smart TV’s, Multi Bedroom Rentals. Lake outside your front door.
Lake View Condominium in Peninsula Village with dock & boat slip. Sleeps 6.
Big Springs Resort is among the tall pines with a quiet serene atmosphere. Family and pet friendly near Hamilton Branch.
Close to the SW entrance of Lassen Volcanic National Park. A stay at the historic lodge includes full breakfast, option of dinner and a full bar.
Antlers Inn is in the best location in Chester close to shopping, restaurants, parks and trails. Best value in the Lake Almanor area.
Enjoy the outstanding views and tranquil atmosphere at Butt Valley Reservoir when you set up camp at Cool Springs Campground in Northern California.
Relax and unwind at R & R Casa de Lago, a beautiful lakefront home in Big Springs, Lake Almanor. With a private dock and stunning views.
Set in a quiet cove, off Peninsula Drive, this lake access home sleeps 10.
Private Lakeside Villa within walking distance of the Knotty Pine Marina!
Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or a two week vacation, Knotty Pine Resort and Marina offers you an opportunity to leave the city behind!
Beautiful resort along the shores of Lake Almanor. We offer a wide range of amenities including; cabins and rooms, an RV park, and a marina.
Experience lakeside luxury at this stunning Lake Almanor home in the heart of the Lake Almanor Country Club.
Lakefront cabin, sleeps 12, near historic Hamilton Branch Powerhouse.
Lake Almanor CC Vacation 4 Bdrm, 2 Ba Sleeps 10 2 Game Rooms, Free 90M WIFI Bedding, Towels, Soaps, Coffee Bar, Laundry Room, BBQ All-Season Rental
This home is located in the heart of Chester. Minutes to Lake Almanor, for boating, water sports, swimming, kayaking, 40 minutes to Mt. Lassen.
The Dome is an adorable geodesic home in Peninsula Village with 2 bedrooms, a loft, 2 bathrooms, a large deck with lake views, and air conditioning.
Offers comfortable accommodations for 12 guests in the heart of Lake Almanor Country Club, with access to nearby beaches, golf, and family-friendly.
Nestled in the pines this quiet clul-de-sac cabin is right up the road from your own boat slip at Knotty Pines Marina in Big Cove.
Kids love our park, it’s perfect for kids of all ages! From swimming during the warm summer months to riding bicycles along the campground roads!
Lakefront home set in a quiet cove with a private dock.
Step into our uniquely designed rooms in the heart of Chester.
Wonderful Lake Almanor Cabin on a deep water parcel with gently sloped lawn to sandy beach, waters edge, and dock.
Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or a two week vacation, Knotty Pine Resort and Marina offers you an opportunity to leave the city behind!
Escape to Joseph’s Eastshore Escape, a lakefront home with stunning views, a private dock, and cozy interiors. Perfect for families seeking relaxation
A family owned/operated resort since 1928, featuring 9 cabins, 25 RV sites, marina, cafe and a commitment to providing an amazing vacation experience
Lake Almanor Country Club Log Cabin near Recreation Area 2 & Golf Course.
Rocky Point is a PG&E operated Campground Located on the West Shore of Lake Almanor just North of Canyon Dam
Your perfect basecamp in charming old town Chester, centraly located to Lake Almanor and Lassen Volcanic NP.
Magical home with gorgeous lake and sunset views. Sleeps 10. Located in the Lake Almanor Country Club with all the amenities.
The Dorado Inn is a waterfront boutique resort, retreat and healing center located on the east shore of Lake Almanor, California.
63 fee sites along the shore of Butt Valley Reservoir. RV’s and tents are welcome with a limit of 6 persons per campsite. Pet Friendly.
Rose Quartz Inn offers clean, up to date, well appointed rooms in a friendly & caring environment, all at the doorstep of Lassen Park & Lake Almanor.
Upcoming Events Near Chester
Chester Park
Willow Street off of Main Street
Time for some frolic and fun in Chester Park! *Open: Saturdays 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm Sundays 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm
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1:30 pm – 3:30 pm
Lassen Volcanic National Park
Snowshoe with a Lassen Park Ranger on the weekend! Snowshoe hikes begin promptly at 1:30 pm at the visitor center and are approximately two hours long.
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10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Elegant Farmer
525 Main Street
Join Elegant Farmer on the 1st Sunday of each month for a mouth watering brunch.
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5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Chester Elks Lodge
164 Main Street
Join us at the Lake Almanor Elks Lodge for a delicious crab feed and support high school scholarships – it’s gonna be shell-tastic!
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Chester Park
Meadowbrook Loop off of Main Street
An afternoon of fun with ice carver, music, a toque contest, ice skating and 15+ chilis to sample.
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7:00 am
101 Meadowbrook Loop
The Mile High 100 is a wonderfully scenic century, metric century, and half metric century event in its 42nd year for 2025!
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11:00 am
Collins Pine Park to Chester Meadow
Join our annual 4th of July celebration starting with this year’s 4th of July Parade. Line-up early, and enjoy the parade along with shops and sights on Main Street.
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Lake Almanor
The 4th of July Fireworks show over Lake Almanor is a 25+ year tradition. The show is shot from the tip of the Peninsula and brings a spectacular end to a day of celebrations.
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10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Lake Almanor Country Club
501 Peninsula Drive
The Courage Triathlon is a 2.8 mile run, 6.4 mile bike, 3.1 mile kayak. It can be done as a team of 3 or solo. come join us for a fun & inspiring experience!
Learn moreDining & Entertainment Near Chester
(530) 310-3777
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BBQ is our specialty -pulled pork, tri tip, tequila chicken, salads, soups Breakfast and Lunch daily, dinners on the weekends Outside Patio Dining
(530) 596-1800
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Serving you the best steak, fresh seafood and elevated pub fare menu paired with selection of great wines, craft beers and specialty cocktails!
530-258-4226
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The Ranch House is a full service restaurant and bar with friendly staff and a beautiful back patio.
(530) 816-9056
Breakfast and Lunch Cafe with homemade baked goods made fresh daily! Full espresso bar with Boba, Red Bull Infusions, Ice Cream, and more!
530-258-2593
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Nothing is better than a burger or a dog through a window! A local favorite for ice cream treats, dinners, fries and more for over 40 years.
530-816-1426
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Seasonal craft beers are on-tap in the bar. The restaurant offers pub fare and a menu with a variety of entrees and sides.
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A nano-brewery, hand crafting small batches of ‘open fermented’ beer. Our ales & lagers are 100% naturally carbonated in the keg.
530-258-4112
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Chester’s 3rd space. Coffee, beverages, bagels, pastries and friends. And a drive through too! What could be better?
530-596-3500
Whether biking, boating jogging or just touring around, everything one needs from deli to spirts to groceries to butcher shop and your favorite coffee
530-258-2229
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Specialize in traditional breakfast & lunch favorites made from scratch with tasty twists, and fresh baked goods.
(530) 256-2133
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Restaurant open only for special events. Each month we offer Afternoon Tea and evening dinner by reservation only. All American comfort food.
(530) 259-4221
Dutch bakery and coffee house. Out of this world pastries, cookies, breakfast and lunch quiches, and savory pastry wraps. Outside seating.
(530) 280-0767
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We carry a wide variety of merchandise including handcrafted items from local vendors. Antique hunters, ice cream lovers and espresso snobs welcome.
530-259-2464
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The experience at Carol’s, whether dining, taking out, or catering your event, is best described as comfort food with a twist.
(530) 259-4343
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We offer a variety of different dishes to temp your palate, from burgers & steaks to fresh fish & pasta. We offer a full bar to enjoy and kick back.
(530) 596-3902
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New Name, same owners, same great Italian food! Our home made pizza and pasta has been famous on the Lake Almanor Peninsula for over 40 years.
(530) 280-7900
Beer & wine garden located in downtown Chester and just a stone’s throw from gorgeous Lake Almanor. A garden setting for relaxing with friends.
Shopping Near Chester
(530) 258-2424
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Gather Home has everything for your aesthetic needs for home and entertaining! Table Top – Gifts – Interior Decor – Furniture!
(916) 258-2100
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Featuring Polywood Outdoor Patio Furniture. Made in the USA & 20 Year Warranty. Umbrellas, Firepits, Home & Lake Decor, Bears & Custom Wood Signs.
(530) 521-9892
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Bookstore with classics to new releases, art gallery and gifts. Grab coffee, breakfast, lunch at Cravings while browsing! It’s the best!
530-280-0767
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Mercantile, old & new home decor, gifts and repurposed items. Great coffee & old fashioned milkshakes. DIYers & gift giving folks you’ll find it here!
530-258-2275
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Cabin & lake house decor, clothing for men, women & children. Lazy One jammies & robes too. Children’s games and books.
530-258-4543
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Custom floral arrangements, gifts, plants, and tuxedo rental located in mid town Chester.
530-258-2100
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Surfs up at Almanor Wake Sports that has the latest in water sports items and apparel including the newest “toy,” Soul Craft Boarding.
(530) 258-3955
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Mountain hardware store. Excellent customer service & friendly staff. Home décor & appliances. Trusted brands-Stihl, Weber, Traeger, Ben Moore paint.
(530) 258-2338
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A friendly outdoor shop that is passionate about getting folks in the outdoors. We carry a variety of FUN! Bicycles, Hobie Kayaks and SUP.
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Hand poured candles, small batch soaps, bath and body products, leather goods, jewelry and socks. Something for everyone! Custom orders encouraged.
(530) 259-4295
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Fresh produce, deli sandwiches, smoothies, milkshakes and homemade pies.
(530) 258-3327
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Big selection of Lake Almanor-Chester & Butt Lake Apparel for all family members. Large inventory of Fishing, camping, hunting, & marine supplies.
530-258-2611
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Your local one-stop-shop! From paint and chainsaws, to fishing and hunting supplies. Serving the Lake Almanor community for over 75 years.
530-280-7900
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Rural sophistication! Unique, good quality decor to enhance the look and feel of any indoor or outdoor space.
(530) 258-3010
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A unique shopping experience of curated home decor collections, accent furniture, jewelry and gifts. Celebrating life with all things beautiful.
530-258-2525
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A wide variety of pet supplies are offered by owner Michele, who has over 35 years of experience with animals. T-F 10-5pm; Sat 10-4pm.
530-258-2600
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Such talent in the great Lake Almanor basin, local artisans and crafters share their wares for locals and guest to bring home that unique piece.
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A potter for 30+ years, Tom signature style is a piece with graceful lines adorned with “Prehistoric” texturing and crystalline glazing.
530-258-2032
Historic Olde Town Corner Store, built in 1912, is now a one stop convenience store. Beverages, snacks and food, and an old town gas station as well.
(530) 259-4343
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Our store offers a little bit of everything. We have PPR souvenirs, snacks, beer, wine, fishing tackle or any last-minute camping essentials
530-258-2046
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Treasures always to be found with “new” items stocked daily and regular “sales” at Forget Me Not thrift store that funds the local hospice.
530-260-2421
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Women’s clothing for the stylish! Great seasonal selections along with jewelry, shoes, hats and more!
(530) 596-3348
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We are your one stop for lake fun. We offer authentic cabin rentals too top of the line boat rentals.
(530) 518-4565
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A nature-inspired boutique shop and full-service florist. Come in and discover the unique beauty that each season brings!
(530) 256-2133
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Each month special events. Afternoon Tea and Specialty dinners. In building Mercantile with vintage and antique items. Updated monthly.
530-258-2212
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Packed with everything from furniture to house gadgets, this thrift store offers lots and lots of items at great prices.
