By Eileen Majors
To top off your annual wildflower hike, try booking a stay at Manzanita Cabins located within Mt. Lassen National Park. The place offers two-room, one-room, and bunkhouse cabins. This year, 2014 marks the third season since these new cabins were built. Enjoy security and convenience in a beautiful, natural setting. Simple, natural wood interior includes wood furniture, a propane heater, and battery-powered lantern. Your bear-proof storage box, a campfire ring and picnic table turns this experience into a mighty comfortable camp out. Central restrooms and showers are nearby. Bring your own bedding for this rustic adventure. Sleeping bags with pillows will work, but why not drag out your fine cotton sheets and cozy down pillows and comforters for a more relaxing stay? The one-room cabin at just $63 per night, includes a double bed, with a 3-inch firm mattress and table with four chairs. You will need your own camping supplies. For $89 per night, you will land in the bunkhouse with eight single bunk style beds or the two-room cabin. This cabin has one double bed, three single bunks, one futon plus the table and chairs. Tents are not allowed at all and dogs are not allowed in the cabins but are permitted in the sites. If you are not up for hauling all of your camping gear, staff will put together what they call their ‘Amenity Package’. First you book your cabin, then you call a separate number to order the gear. Price is based on number of people, with the two-person package for $100, up to a package with amenities for eight people at $250. It includes a cook stove and lantern, a few pots, pans and utensils. A cooler complete with two bags of ice are included as well as sleeping bags, two batches of wood and a “S’mores” kit (Graham crackers, chocolate bars and marshmallows). Consider springing for the Deluxe Amenity Package available in the one-room cabin only, for $125. It includes a pillow-top mattress, sheet set, pillows and comforters, towels and washcloths. You will also find sparkling juice and a healthy snack upon arrival. A welcome basket with this package includes: lotion, shampoos and soap, and a S’mores kit. Enjoy a light breakfast of coffee or cocoa, a Danish and fruit. Additionally, you will receive a coupon for a half off lunch for two at Lassen Café & Gift located inside the visitors’ center. Manzanita Lake Camper Store and Cabins will open for the 2014 season on May 22, 2014. Reservations can be made online at recreation.gov for arrival dates up to six months in advance. Call 877-444-6777 to speak with an online operator. See contact information on page 15. Read more at http://www.lassenrecreation.com/ what_to_do/manzanita_lake.php
