Leg Two of Our Journey: Discovering Lassen National Park and a Prayer for Israel

Nestled near Yosemite National Park yet often overshadowed, Lassen Volcanic National Park boasts a captivating display of volcanic and geothermal wonders. Located in the picturesque landscape of Northern California, it offers an exclusive glimpse into the region's volcanic history and the breathtaking Cascades. This tranquil hideaway amidst lush trees, a pristine lake, and the awe-inspiring night sky became our second destination during our 3- week road trip, providing a wonderful and unique experience.

Where We Stayed

Located in Lassen Volcanic Park lies Manzanita Lake Campground. This was a 286 mile drive from our last stay in Columbia, CA. The 250-300 mile range tends to be our sweet spot for travel days, it took us around six hours.

Unfortunately, if you do not own the Access Pass, the entrance fee is $30 on top of the nightly rate, but if you do own a pass you not only enter for free, but the campsites are half priced.


Manzanita Lake provides seasonal dry camping, featuring amenities like restrooms, laundry facilities, fire pits, and picnic tables. Additionally, there are designated areas for water refills and waste disposal. The camping spots were flat and well-maintained, although generator usage had specific hours, and no cell service was available. On a positive note, Starlink connectivity was reliable.

Tip: Make sure to stock up on groceries before coming, as there is a market about 20 miles away, but it is lacking and pricey.

Our Favorite Activities in Lassen Volcanic National Park

We loved our lake days. A scenic trail conveniently connected our campground to the lakeside. There is also a nicely maintained three- mile trail around the perimeter of the lake where you are sure to spot deer. My daughter and I thoroughly enjoyed this trail together.

Motorized vessels are not permitted on Manzanita Lake, making it a perfect lake to take the kayaks and paddle boards out. It was convenient to have the lake so close to the campground, making nap times easy for the little ones.

We saw many fishermen out on the lake in their kayaks inspiring my son to try out his new fly rail that his great grandpa had given him. He didn’t catch anything, but he dedicated many hours to perfecting his technique.

What’s more, the lake was blissfully uncrowded, allowing us to find a spot each day complete with convenient picnic tables and restrooms nearby.

Tip: Experience the lake by night for a breathtaking view of the unpolluted sky, ensuring you bring along bear spray for added safety. We were fortunate enough to experience the “100 year moon” while we were there.

Our adventurous goal was to explore the geothermal wonders of the park on a hike with my adorable 1 and 2-year-old nephews. Rising early to escape the heat, we embarked on a delightful trek to Cold Boiling Lake.

The path was short and manageable (1.5 miles), with the little ones impressing us with their stamina. Our younger nephew was snug in a backpack, while the two-year-old enjoyed walking and piggyback rides from his Uncle Scott.

Filled with enthusiasm, we decided to extend our hike to the challenging Bumpass Hell—a decision that proved overly ambitious for the kids' first hiking experience. Ill-equipped for nap times, milk, and sufficient snacks, the uphill climb on a precarious trail became overwhelming. After about an hour, tears flowed uncontrollably from the tired tots.

Heading back, we endured disapproving glances from fellow hikers disrupted by our distress. We resorted to placing the older child in a backpack, where he quickly dozed off. The youngest insisted on his mom's embrace. My sister, a trooper, carried him for over a mile, navigating both uphill and downhill stretches. Despite the added challenge of his sleeping weight, she persevered, showcasing the incredible strength and resilience of mothers when faced with adversity. This experience taught us not only our resilience as a group, but also how to better prepare for the future.

Tip: Ensure you have your trail map handy, either in hard copy or downloaded offline through AllTrails. The trail markings were lacking, and there was no map available in the parking vicinity.

We finally made it back to the parking lot where we had a nice picnic along a freezing cold creek. This was the kids (and parents) favorite part of the hike.

Overall Experience

This was one of our favorite camping spots. We rated it 4 out of 5 stars only because of the strict generator hours, making it more difficult with my young nephews. I remember looking up at the super moon and thinking not only how big my God is, but also how much He loves me and delights in awe-ing me. God also gave us Mark, our neighbor, who was a MAF advocate. I love connecting with people involved in missionary work, offering inspiration for my aspirations in this field.

Bible Verse of the Day

John 16:33 NIV

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have

trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

• This verse is special to me, offering hope during challenging times. I see its significance in the context of present events in Israel. The merciless and brutal terrorist attack on Israel evokes feelings of sorrow, apprehension, and empathy. It's deeply distressing to not only hear about the cruel attacks on innocent children, civilians, and a people with a history of persecution, but also to witness protests that condone such acts, heightening a strong sense of injustice.

• Yet, my friends, take courage. God has triumphed over the world through Jesus Christ; He alone holds the reins. He might permit Satan to carry out his assaults to awaken people, but make no mistake, He is a Just, Compassionate, and Victorious God- steadfast in protecting His people. Our souls are of paramount importance to Him; He longs for an eternity with us. Though life may present challenges, find cheer in knowing that God stands by your side to shoulder your burdens, providing and fulfilling His faithful promises. Cling to the truth that this life is fleeting compared to the eternal peace awaiting those who have accepted His Word.

Prayer

Heavenly Father,


I lift up a prayer for those in Israel whose lives have been shattered by the actions of Hamas. I beseech you to bring comfort and provision to those in need—those who are injured and those who have lost loved ones. May the world awaken and turn away from their harmful paths, acknowledging You as the only true God. I humbly urge You to safeguard not only Israel but also the Palestinians that are unwillingly living under this terrorist regime. Protect the children, the innocent, and the Christians residing in both Palestine and Israel. I pray for the leaders of Israel, that they may humble themselves and surrender to you. You are a just God, may your will be done here on earth as it is in Heaven. Lastly, I pray for anyone grappling with hopelessness or dread in their lives, that they may find renewal and solace in Your words, "Take heart! I have overcome this world."

I come to you in Jesus’ name, Amen.

*For further study [regarding Israel] read 2 Chronicles 7:14

I would love to hear your thoughts and experiences, feel free to leave a comment below.

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