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
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.
This home is located in the heart of Chester. Minutes to Lake Almanor, for boating, water sports, swimming, kayaking, 40 minutes to Mt. Lassen.
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 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
Lake Almanor Country Club Log Cabin near Recreation Area 2 & Golf Course.
Enjoy the outstanding views and tranquil atmosphere at Butt Valley Reservoir when you set up camp at Cool Springs Campground in Northern California.
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.
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!
Lake View Condominium in Peninsula Village with dock & boat slip. Sleeps 6.
Lakefront home set in a quiet cove with a private dock.
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.
True Lakeside Resort & Amenities. Full Kitchens, Smart TV’s, Multi Bedroom Rentals. Lake outside your front door.
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.
Lakefront condominium on the Lake Almanor Peninsula with boat slip.
Wonderful Lake Almanor Cabin on a deep water parcel with gently sloped lawn to sandy beach, waters edge, and dock.
Set in a quiet cove, off Peninsula Drive, this lake access home sleeps 10.
Antlers Motel is in the best location in Chester close to shopping, restaurants, parks and trails. Best value in the Lake Almanor area.
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.
Rocky Point is a PG&E operated Campground Located on the West Shore of Lake Almanor just North of Canyon Dam
Step into our uniquely designed rooms in the heart of Chester.
Magical home with gorgeous lake and sunset views. Sleeps 10. Located in the Lake Almanor Country Club with all the amenities.
Lakefront cabin, sleeps 12, near historic Hamilton Branch Powerhouse.
Your perfect basecamp in charming old town Chester, centraly located to Lake Almanor and Lassen Volcanic NP.
The Dorado Inn is a waterfront boutique resort, retreat and healing center located on the east shore of Lake Almanor, California.
Big Springs Resort is among the tall pines with a quiet serene atmosphere. Family and pet friendly near Hamilton Branch.
Upcoming Events Near Chester
4:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Chester Park
190 Willow St
Enjoy an evening of food, drinks and live music while shopping for locally made products, meat, eggs, flowers and produce.
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7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Mt. Lassen Threatre
200 Main Street
Night of laughter with award-winning comic Dan McGowan.
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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 40th year for 2023!
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10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Collins Pine Lawn
500 Main Street
Admission is free allowing you to save your precious dollars to support artisans that put their heart & souls on the line to create something original. Food vendors at event.
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9:00 am
Collin Pines Lawn
500 Main Street
One mile run/walk along historic Main Street in Chester, CA on July 4, 2022. The event starts at 9 a.m. on the Collins Pine Lawn and finishes at the Bidwell House.
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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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8:00 am – 11:00 am
Elks Lodge
Main Street
Join us before the parade for our Annual 4th of July Breakfast. We will be serving pancakes, scrambled eggs, sausage, juice, coffee and serving Bloody Mary’s to those over 21.
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7:00 am
Plumas Pines Resort
3000 Almanor Drive W
A full lake , lunch provided by Plumas Pines, relaxing on the lawn after a morning paddle and beautiful day on the water, and the chance to win prizes.
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5th Annual Professional Artisans Cooperative Art & Craft Marketplace
Jul 29 – Jul 30 Northwest Plumas9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Bidwell House
1 Main Street
This show is held on the grounds of the Beautiful Bidwell House Inn. This event features art and crafts, food and great music. Arts and Crafts Live Music and Food
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9:30 am – 4:00 pm
Olsen Barn
Main Street
Spend the day celebrating the birds that make Lake Almanor so special Western and Clarks Grebes. Join Plumas Audubon for kayaking, bird walks, live music, and more!
Learn more9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Bidwell House
1 Main Street
This show is held on the grounds of the Beautiful Bidwell House Inn. This event features art and crafts, food and great music. Arts and Crafts Live Music and Food
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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!
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7:00 am
Chester/Lake Almanor Elks Lodge
194 Main Street
All are welcome to join. WALA (Wheel Around Lake Almanor) Bicycle event designed for the handicapped cyclist. Handcycles, as well as regular bicycle riders are welcome.
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5:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Rogers Field Chester Airport
Chester Airport Road
The party will be a gala affair reminiscent of the 1940s to include a martini bar, dining to “A Taste of Almanor,” a silent and live auction and dancing to a big band.
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9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Chester, Lake Almanor, Greenville, Crescent Mills, Taylorsville
Join those who love this annual tradition. Experience the warmth and hospitality of small town America from Chester and Lake Almanor to Westwood and Indian Valley.
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5:00 pm – 5:45 pm
Chester Park
Willow Street
Join us at our 3rd Annual Community Tree Lighting at Chester Park! Tree Lighting, Music, Candlelight Carols, Booths, Food & Drinks. Tree L
Learn moreDining & Entertainment Near Chester
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) 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) 259-4221
Dutch bakery and coffee house. Out of this world pastries, cookies, breakfast and lunch quiches, and savory pastry wraps. Outside seating.
(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!
530-596-3500
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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) 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.
530-258-2229
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Specialize in traditional breakfast & lunch favorites made from scratch with tasty twists, and fresh baked goods.
(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) 596-3902
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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.
530-258-4112
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Chester’s 3rd space. Coffee, beverages, bagels, pastries and friends. And a drive through too! What could be better?
530-258-4226
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The Ranch House is a full service restaurant and bar with friendly staff and a beautiful back patio.
530-259-2464
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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.
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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.
Shopping Near 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.
530-258-2275
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Cabin & lake house decor, clothing for men, women & children. Lazy One jammies & robes too. Children’s games and books.
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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.
530-258-2611
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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) 283-3402
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Art gallery featuring local and regional artists. Pottery, photography, paintings, jewelry, fabric art and greeting cards. Plus many local events.
530-260-2421
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Women’s clothing for the stylish! Great seasonal selections along with jewelry, shoes, hats and more!
(530) 283-1033
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We are a small boutique featuring affordable gifts for bath, home and garden. Many are locally made, inspired by nature, with creative packaging.
(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) 283-4735
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A sweet temptation of yummy chocolates, complete scratch bakery, full espresso bar, and unique gifts.
(530) 283-4545
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We are a small business out to make a big difference! Quincy Pharmacy is your local, full-service pharmacy. We also offer unique gifts.
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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) 551-2626
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Gallery gift shop featuring local artists including leatherworks, furniture, collectibles, soaps and lotions, and so much more!
(530) 284-6313
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Incorporated in 1980, Rileys Jerky is produced locally in Greenville , CA . 7 tantalising flavors. Available on site, online & select retail outlets.
(530) 283-0404
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We are a family owned and operated business offering Toys, Games, Boutique Children’s Clothing and Hand Scooped Ice cream.
(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
(805) 729-6563
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Family-Friendly Flower Farm offering Farm Stand, Dwarf Dairy Goats, Classes, Wedding Blooms, and general good vibes. Come enjoy the good life with us!
(530) 283-5000
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Parts and service for most outdoor adventure machinery, including Snow Mobiles, Quads ,ATV’s, Dirt Bikes, Chainsaws, Landscape Machinery. UHAUL Rental
(530) 596-4505
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Karen’s Deli and Pizza at the Branch located along the East Shore of Lake Almanor is the East Shore’s favorite place for Pizza and BBQ Burgers.
(530) 284-6016
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Since 1985 The place to find Unique Treasures ,gifts & keepsakes in beautiful Indian Valley!
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!
530-258-2525
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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) 258-3010
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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) 258-3327
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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) 616-0230
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Custom Picture Framer, Professional Portrait Photographer. Large Format Printer for your limited edition giclee prints, and we also carry art supplies
(530) 259-4295
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Fresh produce, deli sandwiches, smoothies, milkshakes and homemade pies.
(530) 283-2426
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Full service bike shop, shuttle service, bike rentals, trail maps, local trail knowledge, cycling accessories and apparel.
(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!
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.
530-258-2212
Packed with everything from furniture to house gadgets, this thrift store offers lots and lots of items at great prices. M-T, Sun – 10-4pm; F-Sat. 10-
(530) 283-1633
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Available for groups, special events, parties and league bowling. Open Wed-Sun, 12 Noon-until 9:00PM(10:00pm Fri/Sat).
(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) 283-2706
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Locally owned groceries and supplys specialising in organic foods of all types, exstensive beer & wine selctions. Open 7 days a week 8:00AM to 9:00PM.
(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) 283-2266
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Office Supplies, Full print, copy and fax services, Art Supplies. Quincy Souvenirs – T Shirts, sweatshirts, hats , magnets Gifts Gift
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.
(530) 283-0924
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Full line of construction supplies , hardware and lumber
(530) 836-4668
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Locally owned, Mountain Mattress offers box store selection & prices, including furniture, bedding accessories & local crafts. 2 locations in Plumas.
530-258-4543
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Custom floral arrangements, gifts, plants, and tuxedo rental located in mid town Chester.
(530) 258-2150
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Indie bookstore with classics to new releases, art gallery and gifts. Grab coffee, breakfast, lunch at Cravings while browsing! It’s the best!
(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.
