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 
Barney car in the 4th of July Parade 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 the 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.
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.
Wonderful Lake Almanor Cabin on a deep water parcel with gently sloped lawn to sandy beach, waters edge, and dock.
Step into our uniquely designed rooms in the heart of Chester.
A family owned/operated resort since 1928, featuring 9 cabins, 25 RV sites, marina, cafe and a commitment to providing an amazing vacation experience
Big Springs Resort is among the tall pines with a quiet serene atmosphere. Family and pet friendly near Hamilton Branch.
Rocky Point is a PG&E operated Campground Located on the West Shore of Lake Almanor just North of Canyon Dam
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.
Lakefront home set in a quiet cove with a private dock.
Enjoy the outstanding views and tranquil atmosphere at Butt Valley Reservoir when you set up camp at Cool Springs Campground in Northern California.
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
Antlers Motel is in the best location in Chester close to shopping, restaurants, parks and trails. Best value in the Lake Almanor area.
The Dorado Inn is a waterfront boutique resort, retreat and healing center located on the east shore of Lake Almanor, California.
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.
Lake Almanor Country Club Log Cabin near Recreation Area 2 & Golf Course.
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.
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.
This home is located in the heart of Chester. Minutes to Lake Almanor, for boating, water sports, swimming, kayaking, 40 minutes to Mt. Lassen.
Lakefront condominium on the Lake Almanor Peninsula with boat slip.
Lake View Condominium in Peninsula Village with dock & boat slip. Sleeps 6.
Magical home with gorgeous lake and sunset views. Sleeps 10. Located in the Lake Almanor Country Club with all the amenities.
Upcoming Events Near Chester
Chester Park
Willow Street off of Main Street
Hours: Fridays from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Saturdays and Sundays from noon until 4:00 pm. Cost $5.00, including skate rental.
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1:30 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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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 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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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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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
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
Learn more
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 – 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.
Learn moreDining & Entertainment Near Chester
(530) 259-4221
Dutch bakery and coffee house. Out of this world pastries, cookies, breakfast and lunch quiches, and savory pastry wraps. Outside seating.
530-258-2229
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Specialize in traditional breakfast & lunch favorites made from scratch with tasty twists, and fresh baked goods.
(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) 259-4343
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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) 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!
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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.
530-259-2464
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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.
530-258-4226
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The Ranch House is a full service restaurant and bar with friendly staff and a beautiful back patio.
530-258-2593
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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.
530-258-4112
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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
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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) 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.
Shopping Near Chester
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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.
530-258-2275
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Cabin & lake house decor, clothing for men, women & children. Lazy One jammies & robes too. Children’s games and books.
(530) 258-2424
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Gather Home has everything for your aesthetic needs for home and entertaining! Table Top – Gifts – Interior Decor – Furniture!
530-258-2611
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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.
530-258-2600
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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) 259-4295
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Fresh produce, deli sandwiches, smoothies, milkshakes and homemade pies.
(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) 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.
(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.
530-260-2421
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Women’s clothing for the stylish! Great seasonal selections along with jewelry, shoes, hats and more!
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) 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) 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) 258-2338
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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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A potter for 30+ years, Tom signature style is a piece with graceful lines adorned with “Prehistoric” texturing and crystalline glazing.
(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.
(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) 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.
(530) 283-4735
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A sweet temptation of yummy chocolates, complete scratch bakery, full espresso bar, and unique gifts.
(530) 283-2426
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Full service bike shop, shuttle service, bike rentals, trail maps, local trail knowledge, cycling accessories and apparel.
530-258-4543
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Custom floral arrangements, gifts, plants, and tuxedo rental located in mid town Chester.
(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) 283-3402
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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) 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) 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.
530-280-0767
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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) 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
530-258-2525
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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) 284-6016
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Since 1985 The place to find Unique Treasures ,gifts & keepsakes in beautiful Indian Valley!
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) 283-0924
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Full line of construction supplies , hardware and lumber
(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) 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) 551-2626
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Gallery gift shop featuring local artists including leatherworks, furniture, collectibles, soaps and lotions, and so much more!
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-
