We spent our 45th wedding anniversary, July 2025. We love this place. Even after the fire(s), it's Lassen Park! Beautiful! The guest ranch is a wonderful base camp to experience this part of the park. The ranch staff make the experience happen. We felt like family (in the good way). These folks actually care. Look closely at their website for what they offer. For us, it was like you'd think of an early 1900s, Adirondack's mountain motor lodge to be like. Rustic but regal. The staff made it regal for us. read more

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This is a nice little spot close to Lassen Ntl Park. We were glad to get out of the house and spend a long weekend in nature. The cabins have no electricity and there is no cell phone service, so it's great if you want to get away from everything. There are some hikes available close by. Driving to the main part of the park actually takes about 90 minutes, so it's ok if you want to visit the park once, but doing it every day is very time consuming. Due to the pandemic food was only served outside. The food was pretty good, our server was very nice, however they were a little bit understaffed and it could take a long time to get dinner or breakfast. (Can be annoying if you're trying to get a head start on the busier trails). Overall the staff was really nice and we enjoyed our time in this beautiful and serene area. read more

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Went here for a girls trip and had a blast enjoying nature and the mineral pool. We also got a massage and the lady did a great job. My girlfriends and I will definitely be back. read more

Drakesbad Guest Ranch - Hiking Near Me - Chester, California

Just came back from the opening weekend. It was so much fun and completely different than our first experience last summer. Last summer it was hot! This time it was cool with snow and hail, but beautiful nevertheless. Activities: Our kids loved archery, pony rides, pool time, and hiking. We even got to see some new animals. A new marmot family moved in to the camp grounds. Got an awesome photo of the baby kissing mommy marmot. There was a honeycomb bear. Super cool in the giant field of green. The adult group got massages, ate really well every night. The staff were incredibly nice and helpful. Looking forward to our 3rd trip next year. Accommodations: We stayed at the cabins. We are a group of two family and had two cabins, which was perfect. In the mornings, my son would run over to the next cabin and get his friend to go to the dining room for breakfast by themselves. Next year we're getting a bungalow and our family will be side by side with shower in the room. Cabins don't have electricity and shower. You can take showers by the swimming pool. It's faces the horse stable, which is not an issue in terms of noise and if you love horses. Horses are very quiet and pretty. My kids really enjoyed going over to feed the horses every morning. Duplex is closest to the lodge and dining area, but gets sun hitting it first thing in the morning. It's has the most space if you group has many people. Bungalows has the best view. It faces the field and in the shady area, doesn't get morning sun. It has its own shower and bathroom. read more

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Such a beautiful place! They were so sweet at the restaurant and made me a dessert when they found out I was getting married next week. read more

Drakesbad Guest Ranch - Hiking Near Me - Chester, California

The only reason this place has an overall rating of four stars is because it used to be wonderful. Then new management took over and it is horrible. This was not my family's first visit and we did not plan on it being our last. When every meal (they are included, expensive and you can't opt out) is a nightmare you don't want to return. There was not a single meal that was completely edible - something on the plate was typically raw while other items were over cooked. My two daughters and I were not all served our meals at the same time at any meal even when we were getting the same thing with no special requests. Oh and it feels wonderful to sit waiting 40 minutes for food while your server is kissing up to another group (single lesbian mom with a brown kid was not worth his time) or plays on the computer. Let's not forget the guy who could not crack a smile and pretty much threw food and drink down on the table (he did this for everyone. My girls and I could not believe our eyes as we watched him) Management was never around during food service. Until they actually do some hands on management it will not improve. Hopefully they are replaced soon by folks who are qualified to run a resort For me - I do not pay upwards of $500 a night to feel like I want to cry after every interaction with staff. Shame on everyone working this summer for making me and my family feel this way. read more

I have been to Drakesbad several times. The rooms are a bit small and the facility has it's rustic touches. But there is so much that this place has to offer: A beautiful setting within Lassen National Park. Fresh air (except at the geothermal spots) and great sleeping. A sense of being away from it all with enough to be comfortable and a wonderful sense of relaxation. No real cell phone reception unless you climb out of the valley. A nice historic lodge building that acts as the community living room both inside and outside. A hot springs-fed swimming pool that's always open. All meals (and excellent ones at that included). Miles and miles of hiking trails and access to all those geothermal wonders. Horseback riding, canoeing on the lake, the Wednesday BBQ, and a nightly campfire. Friendly guests and 2 very hard working and welcoming Ranch Hosts (Ed and Billie Fiebiger). A few cautions: It's not cheap, although it's a great value. Finding an opening can be difficult as people and families return often and Drakesbad is only open from June through October. Ed can also be a bit strict with kids (including mine) that cross certain behavioural or social lines. At the same time, his admonitions are honest and caring. read more

This review is for the restaurant. Drakesbad restaurant is such as missed opportunity. After hiking all day I arrived at Warner Valley Campground. I wandered down to the Guest Ranch because I heard there was a restaurant. Although I did not have a reservation that staff was extremely friendly and accommodating. They made space for me. After that it went downhill. I sat waiting about 30 minutes until someone brought me a menu. I waited another 15 minutes and no one arrived to take my order. While waiting I saw a server bring out someone's food. The dish looked so bad--stale, overcooked--that I decided to leave. Waiting 45 minutes for someone to take your order then the food being mediocre--no thank you. After arriving back at Camp Warner, I was told by some fellow backpackers that I was correct to not dine there. The food was indeed mediocre. This is a shame given that the resort is beautiful, and the staff is friendly. With new or improved management over the restaurant this can be a true gem. As it is, this is a missed opportunity. read more

So Much Missed Potential and Who's in Charge Here? I'm making an effort to stay at all the old lodges in the various western national parks. Drakesbad is in a little trafficked corner of Lassen Volcanic National Park. The setting is very nice and the area is peaceful and quiet. The guest ranch lets you know up front that the place is "rustic". But there is a difference between rustic and trailer trash. Unfortunately, Drakesbad teeters towards the latter. It is all so unfortunate and unnecessary. This place could be a gem with good management, a clear plan and better organization of staff time and resources. It wouldn't take a lot of money to make this place significantly better. A good management plan and 3 months it all it should take. As it is, the rooms are grimy and dusty. Rustic shouldn't translate as dirty. There is no excuse for broken toys and games littering the grounds around the main lodge. The pool bottom is thick with black algae and sharp cracks catch the feet. The dining room is pretty clean, but disorganized. For example, the food is put out on the buffet without serving spoons. There never seemed to be enough plates and silverware for the demand. The dining room staff always had the air of being in crisis mode and trying to keep their heads down. Overall the food was fine, but a little bland. It all comes down to poor management. When I asked a staff member who was in charge, they gave a name but added "when he's around". I will give a big shout out to Jasmine who made each meal joyful and Shelby who, single-handedly, seems to do the same amount of work as the rest of the staff put together. As someone in the hospitality industry for 35 years, I am very familiar with operating similar businesses. Management is key. And all I can say about Drakesbad Guest Ranch is what a shame. read more

Pro: Location is outstanding!! Access to exceptional hiking trails and phenomenal dark sky. Rustic accommodation away from the hustle and bustle of a busy life. Cons: Our bungalow had weeks of dust under the beds, there was dirt between the bathroom wall & vanity, and the light color curtains were terribly soiled. The room heater was broken and when mentioned to the staff there was no effort to apologize for the discomfort. The restaurant staff and check in staff were uninviting/unengaging except on our check out morning. Some mornings it was nearly impossible to get a second cup of coffee. In the evening with desert, there was never any offer of coffee or tea. We anticipated a gratuity would be expected but were surprised that gratuities were requested for our host/hostess (whom we never met) and chef. Although we tipped the wait/room staff and chef, we would have tipped more generously if staff would have made any effort to be engaging beyond dropping off food at our table . Overall very odd and poor service especially when I am guessing tips are a large part of the staff's compensation. Maybe it was an off week? Nonetheless still worth a visit just to be in the heart of Warner Valley. read more

Beautiful mountain ranch setting. Like going back in time. Love Wednesday night bbq and hot tub with our family after a hike to Devils kitchen. read more

After hiking for 2 days at Lassen we thought the hot springs would feed good, so we gave them a call to see if we could get a room. Luckily they had one room available. The hosts Ed and Billie are great. Being European, they give the place that sort of vibe. The overall vibe of the place is quiet and serene. No locks on the doors, no cell phone, no internet, no tv, no electricity in the rooms. Kind of like a step up from camping which is fine by me. (TIP: Bring your own booze if you drink because the wine and beer selection if fairly limited. There were a few decent beers available at dinner, but the only beer available after dinner was Coors Light- Yuck!) The accommodations were fine and about what I expected--rustic and quaint. The beds were so-so, the gas stove in the room was a bit difficult to figure out--it seemed to be either about a thousand degrees or off and nowhere in between. The food was OK and the menu was more creative than you'd expect at a "rustic" guest lodge out in the boonies. The food was better than I expected it to be and I was VERY happy that they had vegetarian options! But I'd have to say honestly that if it was a stand-alone restaurant, it's not a place I'd go back to for the food. The waitress was pretty lacking in skills, menu knowledge, and service but she was nice. Just fairly clueless about being a waitress. I see a lot of people have rated the food as "excellent". Maybe those people either don't eat out very much, or are just feeling blissful and rate the food better than it actually is because they're relaxing on vacation, and/or because they're feeling so good from being disconnected from their modern and wifi/mobile phone connected and stressful world. We all know how good ANY food tastes after a hard day hiking, so I'd imagine that influences a lot of the "excellent" ratings. The hot spring pool is what we went for and it was a little rough around the edges. The sides and bottom of the pool were covered in very slippery algae and the water was filled with bits of algae floating through it. Literally, there were bits of algae floating in nearly every square inch of the entire volume of water in the pool. I heard several people talking about how gross it was. Because of the algae it was easy to slip and fall under the water when walking in the pool. I grew up swimming in farm ponds, creeks, rivers, rock quarries, and strip mine pits, so I'm no stranger to swimming in a natural setting. And I've also been in several hot springs around the world and I've never seen one as dirty as this. Frankly, it was gross and screamed "neglect." I see pretty much everyone has given Drakesbad a 5 star review and I get the feeling both from the reviews and from the comments of the people I met there that much of what they are rating as "5 star" is because they are unable to use internet, cell phones, etc. which lets them relax. It seems to me that a lot of the blissful and wonderful feelings they describe are mainly from being disconnected from technology and work, slowing down mentally, and being in a natural setting, and not necessarily from the Drakesbad Guest Ranch itself. And finally the price...being generous on the quality/quantity of food and service I'll say it was about $45 per person for food per day ($20D, $15L, $10B.) At $140 per night, per person, that means $190 for accommodations ($280 minus $90 for food) for 2 people per night. It seems a little overpriced for what this place really is and what you get for the money. Granted, I've traveled a lot and have been in many similar places so I'm comparing the Drakesbad experience with all of these other places I've experienced. Possibly if this is the only place like this that someone has visited, they would think it's better than it really is. I understand that it's a fairly unique place, at least for the Lassen area (I'm actually not sure if there are similar places nearby or not.) So oddly enough, people may feel inclined to pay more to get less precisely because it is out of the way and rustic. And of course the "value" is about what it's worth to YOU for the experience. That will of course vary from person to person. So all in all it was a bit of a mixed bag for me. The food was OK, the hot spring pool was gross (but warm!), the accommodations were OK (if not a bit overpriced), the hosts were very nice, and the quiet and tranquility was very refreshing. I'm not sure if I'd go back again or not. Maybe I will give it a second visit and see how it goes. I'm torn between a 3 and 4 star rating, but because the pool was so nasty I've gone with 3 stars. read more

Updating our review from 2009. We visited Drakesbad for the third time this past summer, with the new hosts having taken over. The new hosts have big shoes to fill, and are doing a good job. Overall, it remained a great experience. The food and amenities remain excellent for this backcountry location. New amenities include a few more organized activities for kids and adults, including archery, which was a blast, arts and crafts, and telescope viewing. Younger kids are now free (!) which was a nice change. The only downside was that the service seems to have slipped a bit, especially in the dining room. Many of the staff were excellent, but one or two were not very helpful and seemed somewhat annoyed when we would ask them for assistance. Plus it seemed like there were fewer staff at the facility overall than in past years, although I can't say for sure. Also, at breakfast time the kitchen ran out of the hot meal menu item and basic serving implements like silverware and bowls on more than one occasion -- there should be enough food and supplies stocked for every overnight guest to have what he or she needs at breakfast time. read more

Only someone who has spent several days hiking on the hot and dusty PCT can begin to appreciate how I was looking forward to my stop at the Drakesbad Resort. All I kept dreaming about on the hike in was a cold drink, clean shower and real food. I also understood, from other hikers and signage at Drakesbad that hikers should expect to be treated a bit differently than Drakesbad's regular cliental. I totally get that, and I appreciate that Drakesbad has made some effort to accommodate the particular needs of hikers. I mention all this because this feeling of being a second-class and less desirable customer played into my experience at dinner that night. I arrived at Drakesbad in the early afternoon. My first order of business was to make the required Dinner reservations. I spoke to the man who seemed to be in charge of the dinning hall and he gave me very specific instructions. dinner for regular guests started at 6:00 PM, and I was to arrive by 7:00 PM and sit at a particular outside table and wait there until I was called. The whole system is set up to keep us hiker-trash separate from the premium paying guests. I don't blame them for this; it is a smart business decision, who wants to be around smelly hikers? Still, all this added to a nagging feeling of being unwanted. I spent a good amount of time cleaning up in the hiker shower. I wanted to be presentable at dinner with the descent folk. I arrived early at my assigned seat to wait for dinner since I wanted to make sure I did not miss it. The dining hall was full and the staff was very busy attending to the guests needs. I made sure that I made eye contact with the staff and the kitchen manager so that they were aware that I was there, then I proceeded to wait, and wait. The dining hall was thinning out, I thought I would be seated at this point, but nothing happened. I presumed that they really wanted to allow time for the decent folk to leave before allowing a hiker in, so I kept patiently waiting. Eventually it was getting dark and cold. The place was near empty of guests, and the wait staff was still busy cleaning and setting up for breakfast the next day. I presumed that after all this work was done the dining staff would finally get to eat and at that point I would be asked to join them. I was actually excited at this prospect, because a little company over dinner would be welcome. Eventually I asked the kitchen manager if I could wait inside because the evening was growing so cold. I felt bad about doing this because it went against what he instructed me to do, but I was invited to sit down in the warmth inside. And there I stupidly sat, all alone, as everyone worked around me. I kept making eye contact with the kitchen manager, thinking he would explain that my dinner would be ready in just a few minutes, but he basically avoided my gaze. I can see now that I was an idiot to just sit there so long without saying anything, but as a hiker, I already felt that my presence at Drakesbad was an unwanted imposition, and I did not want to do anything to add to the inconvenience. Finally the chef came out of the kitchen and asked me if I needed anything. I explained that I was on the 'hiker plan' and was waiting for my meal. He seemed surprised and apologized. He explained that most of the food had been put away, but that he would see what he could put together for me. I was crestfallen, I wasn't having dinner with the staff, I was forgotten and ignored. The chef graciously brought me a plate of leftover eggplant parm and boiled vegetables. I was so grateful for his thoughtfulness, but I was so mortified at my own stupidity that I could hardly enjoy it. I ate as quickly as I good and got up to leave. All of this happened under the eye of the kitchen manager who had taken my dinner reservation, but he never said a word. I stepped out into the cold dark night feeling humiliated. I loved my hike on the PCT. I have met so many interesting and kind people from many walks of life as a hiker, but this was a low point for me. I am older that most hikers, and not very attractive after some time on the trail. This experience at Drakesbad made me feel invisible. This was the first time I had experienced what sociologists call 'Social Invisibility' and it hurt, I guess it hurt enough that six months later I am writing this long review. I could barely sleep that night it was so upsetting. I realize this situation was mostly my own doing. I was so hung up on feeling that I was an undesired guest that I did not want to impose. I think that Drakesbad would be better served just recognizing who they are, a lovely resort that caters to a more affluent cliental. This two-tiered system they have for hikers is always bound to be problematic. To the PCT hikers I recommend that you just keep hiking past Drakesbad, the small hiker-friendly town of Old Station is just another 24 miles up the trail. read more

A trip back in time to the land that time forgot. Leave your cares and worries behind, and get a look at the original National Park experience. The knotty pine dining room features two entrees at night, and everyone eats at large tables bearing fresh wild flower bouquets. The evening were there, they featured roasted turkey or vegetarian lasagna. It was like Thanksgiving in August, with the juiciest moist turkey on a raft of mashed potatoes with browned butter. The salad featured pine nuts, and a sweet vinagrette, and desert was cheesecake served in a martini glass with a pouf of whipped cream. If you eat at the Guest Ranch, you can then use the hot springs pool, and what a salve that was after climbing Mount Harkness that morning. We floated in the warm bath, watching the moon and stars above the mountains. The water is heated to the perfectly relaxing temperature, and individual dressing areas are provided. Although there were no electric lights in the dressing rooms, the general area was lit, and we found our way back up the hill. One of the cabins has a sort of museum store, where Drakesbad apparel and history lessons are featured, along with picture puzzles, and rocking chairs. The cabins seem adequate, but basic, providing a nostalgic camping experience. read more

Great Dining in a beautiful setting. Instead of booking a room, just reserve for dinner (about a 3 star...) and enjoy a hot soaking afterwards. Nice campground just a few hundred yards down the road. Nice things to look for here: Deer just a few feet away munching away. Moonrise while soaking in the hot springs. Stars on the moonless nights. Air like a fine wine. read more

Lassen Volcanic National Park is one of the least visited of all the National Parks and Drakesbad is the one of the most unique of all the lodgings located within a National Park. It is a place that anyone who wishes to visit Lassen and plans to stay, not camping, should stay. Regardless of who manages it. The 2019 season was the last for Ed and Billie as managers of Drakesbad, part of a family run business called California Guest Services. Now run by a corporation: Snow Mountain, LLC which is a subsidiary of Ortega National Parks that operates concessions in multiple National Park sites. This has been a rough opening for the new operators. And for all intents and purposes, I don't think that if you didn't know there had been a change, you would notice. I have stayed at Drakesbad about a half a dozen times. My biggest gripe really has to do with the changes in lodging rates this year. And those changes are, apparently, under the control of the Park Service. Not the concessionaire. First, the rates based on seasonality were discontinued: there used to be different rates based on the time of year. Second, for the rate I used to pay, it was increased almost 25%. If the Park service changed rates over time, in smaller increments, it would have not been such a shock. But, hey, I'm pretty much "Lassened Out" since I've been there so many times and probably won't be staying in Drakesbad ever again. I'm just sorry for those that have to pay the prices now. I would only make a couple of suggestions to the "New Guys". And these have nothing to do with anything that they've had to endure and adapt to due to COVID or the fires. For those who have been used to it, and for some for whom it might make a difference regarding the days they would like to stay, please bring back the menus on the website. For me, I probably wouldn't have booked a Monday had I known that my only choices for Dinner would be Lamb Shepard's Pie or the Vegetarian. I'm pretty picky about vegetables and all Shepard's Pie is, or was, was a big bowl of peas and corn and mashed potatoes. And I do love mashed potatoes and lamb, but spent way too much time maneuvering around the peas. And not everyone likes lamb. Maybe a lasagna instead? On the bright side definitely keep the Wednesday BBQ. And those really good chocolate brownies. What I really didn't care for were the newly installed soap and lotion dispensers in the units. Yuck. Tacky, tacky tacky. And they were right over the soap dish, that I couldn't use without banging into those dispensers. I can understand the desire to save money by eliminating the individual personal care products. But these things just make the rooms look like the inside of a High School bathroom. And who knows what is in the products? Artificial fake chemicals that one might not want to smell and will always have the potential to cause skin irritations. Plus, over time, those things always leak. And the products inside end up either separating out liquids and solids or simply solidifying into a sticky smelly globule of gunk. Which makes keeping the containers functioning and clean a chore. Ugh. All that aside, Drakesbad is worth at least a couple of nights. A place to escape the maddening crowds in rustic comfort. read more

We just returned from a wonderful stay! Nina, Jeff and the entire staff were so incredible. They were excellent at efficiently running a complex business while making guests feel like they're truly at home. We came with a five month old and a four year old and stayed in a cabin. Make no mistake- it's basic: with beds, a sink, a toilet and no electricity. But that's the fun of it! You're roughing it, except that amazing food is prepared for you three times a day! (Other lodging types on property do have showers. We showered at the clean, spacious and recently renovated showers by the pool.). The dinner entrees are on par with what nice restaurants in our area would charge 18-28 bucks for. And the desserts!! And breakfast and lunch are delicious as well. Don't skip the scones. If you plan to go hiking they'll pack you tasty brown bag lunches so you can picnic. My son had a blast riding a horse that was led down a trail, doing archery, attending the nightly campfire (s'mores provided), and being the guest bell ringer. They ring a bell outside the dining hall at mealtimes :) There is a range of different difficulty level hikes you can go on which originate at the ranch. The views are absolutely spectacular and the area is unique due to the bizarrely beautiful boiling lake and thermal geysers. The pool itself is heated by thermal springs. About 95 degrees during the day- so relaxing. You sit there and stare out across the meadow to the pines on the mountain. It was such a special experience for our family. The staff was so kind and fun, especially with our sons. I would love to go back!! read more

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My wife, son (9) and I spent three nights last week at Drakesbad, in the Warner Valley section of Lassen Volcanic National Park. We'll definitely come back -- it's a wonderful place to stay for solitude, natural beauty, and really good food. Drakesbad includes three meals per day, prepared by a very enthusiastic and welcoming staff. The facility is very family and child-friendly. The large pool -- at body temperature thanks to water from nearby hot springs -- is terrific after hiking the trails to Devil's Kitchen or Boiling Hot Springs. We stayed in one of the standalone cabins and one night in a room in the main lodge -- both were comfortable and fun. Some rooms have bunk beds, making it easier for three to sleep very comfortably. Note that there is no wifi and no cell phone reception at Drakesbad, making it easy to get away for real. If you need an email fix, you can drive 17 miles to the town of Chester, which has several hot spots. read more

A one-of-a-kind experience. If you're looking to slow life down, turn off the electronics, and flee the crowds, Drakesbad is for you. With limited accommodations (about 60 guests total), it's located in the pristine Warner Valley in the midst of a picturesque meadow. It's beauty is tough to describe, but the quiet and freshness of that valley is unforgettable. All meals are announced by the ringing of the bell and are served in the dining cabin. Guest name tags mark the tables that are adorned with fresh flowers, and the wood stove is often ablaze. All food is fresh daily and vegetarian options are available. Overall, the food is outstanding. The rooms are rustic and quaint and most are lit by kerosene lamps. Activities include horseback riding, hiking, pool lounging at the hot springs fed pool, reading in a hammock, or working a puzzle in the lodge. There is a small gift shop with post cards, books, t-shirts, and other items, and soda and beer are also available. All purchases are logged in on paper using the honor system. In the evening a camp fire is burning and s'more makings are available for roasting. The lodge does have electricity so many guests congregate fireside before turning in. The management and staff are mostly European and are extremely helpful and accommodating. While you will spend more to visit Drakesbad, it's truly worth it! read more

Drakesbad Guest Ranch - Early morning mist in the meadow - Hiking Near Me - Chester, California

We met extended family for several days at Drakesbad, our first trip but the family had been there many times before. I would rate it for 5 stars except for two things... I know this is really the point of having a place like this but their lack of WiFi or cell phone service and the forced meal times. Rustic but not cheesy and extremely friendly staff from all over the world make this a great experience. Going to a dude ranch kind of place might make you self conscious if you are more of a tent camper but the staff and other guests make you feel welcome. Even the Pacific Crest Trail hikers know to stop in here, the half way point between Mexico and Canada. Wildlife includes deer (right outside the buildings), many birds, and even a bear if you know where to look. The lodge is inundated with ground squirrels who poop all over the place (watch your step). The lodge also has a little gift store with various branded apparel along with beer in the evenings - all on the honor system. Now about that lack of WiFi/cell service. I had responsibilities (master's program, funny enough an online computer programming class) that required occasional internet access. I assumed I could either connect at the ranch or drive back to town for cell service. The ranch does not offer public internet (but has a computer online for emergencies) and its nearly an hour drive to town, where the cell service is poor and all the businesses in town with WiFi have them locked down to keep people like me from borrowing a connection. It is about two hours back to Chico if you really have to have it. Do not go there if you have to be connected at any point in your stay! It was a great place to go, especially for the non-camping types who prefer cabins and nicely prepared hot meals. Thank you for the experience! read more

Stayed in the main lodge. Room was small and creaky. Food was not very good, especially considering how much we spent (two nights for $850+). Roasted duck was rubbery. They should stick to more basic dishes. Hiking trails were nearby and the highlight of the visit was seeing a mother bear with two cubs on the way to Drake Lake. Otherwise, not a great experience. Would rather stay at Gray Eagle Lodge. read more

We didn't stay at the ranch but we came to go horseback riding. Two of us had a lot of experience and two of us had never been on a horse. TLDR: Horses and trail are awesome, trail guide not so much. +5 stars for the horses and the trail. The horses were responsive and patient and they made a great impression on the two novice riders with us. The trail -Devil's Kitchen- was gorgeous. A beautiful meadow, nicely shaded forests, uphills and down, and even a boardwalk made it an aesthetically arresting and interesting ride that was just right for our beginners. It was truly stunning. -2 stars for the customer service. We had planned on going on the Terminal Geyser trail but it was cancelled. We were told by a waiter/cashier that it was because a wrangler was sick. We met the wrangler who would take us on the new trail and she told us it was because there was a broken bridge. We told her what the waiter said and she back-tracked to agree with him. Then she told us it was cancelled also because we were late (about 15 minutes). But we had called ahead of time and let them know we had gotten lost and asked if the ride was still on even though we were running late, to which they said it would be alright. The wrangler who was our trail guide also made little to no attempt to talk to us throughout the ride. read more

I have never given a one star rating until now. Drakesbad, despite my review is an exquisite sanctuary of nature that is unique, and beautiful. I've been there before and loved it. It is rustic retreat and family oriented. My challenge was with our accommodations. When I made my reservation only one cabin was available for one night only, so we took it. Our cabin was directly front of the horse stables and the stench pocketed and permeated our room. When we arrived the spider web framed windows were wide open and it stank to high heaven with no escape, even with closing all the windows which just made it stuffy and stinky. The management, despite to rooms directly proximity to the stables, denied there was smell as "no one else had ever complained". A kind waitress gave us a nearly burned out scented candle which lasted about a 1/2 hour to try to mask the stench. It was a long night of no sleep and an embedded stench in my brain. We went to the mineral pool, which in the past was pristine, now was a disgusting pool of slimy algae. Husband, who came specifically for the therapeutic pool would not go in it. I did. It was so slippery one could not stand. The water temperature was perfect, so I relaxed into it. It took about 10-15 minutes of serious scrubbing afterwards to get the slippery slime off. Despite high volume usage apparently the pool is serviced only twice a season. Think about it... high volume usage including kids, In my opinion, it should be drained and scrubbed weekly during high usage times. Our short stay there cost $300+ for accommodations & meals, plus pressure to tip the staff. Staff was really nice, but I felt likely they were poorly paid and the tips really helped their survival, but with the relatively high cost of the stinky room and slimy pool, I felt financially sucked. Having experienced the Guest Ranch in the past under different management they were 5 stars, but not this time. read more

Absolutely serene. Love the horses, the massages, the going back to just the good ole honor system, campfires, friendly staff, and trails to explore. You can't go many places and shop in the gift shop and write down what you are taking and how many and they charge you later. Meals provided are good but nothing to brag about EXCEPT the atmosphere when you eat outside and the views. Great family place or a romantic getaway for two. read more

We reserved 3 nights in duplex #1. We left after 2 sleepless nights due to infestation of mice in our cabin. First night heard the mice (which we thought was just a single mouse). It was a sleepless night as the chewing on wood was pretty loud. I will add we had no food out in the cabin, yet night #2 we caught 2 mice, both in wastebaskets (about 2am) and then about 3am found the loud wood chewing mice, 3 in total, in a wooden box next to the heater stove in corner of room. At breakfast, we reported this to our host and specifically asked them to remove all mice, set traps and thoroughly clean/disinfect the room as we would return in afternoon. Knowing about Hantavirus, and seeing all the droppings on cabin floor, in cabinets, on bathroom floor, on the bathroom counter and on the towels...literally EVERYWHERE except around the beds, it became obvious that cabin has not been thoroughly cleaned in ages...and we were first guests in that cabin for this season! It dawned on me after this closer inspection of perimeter of the bathroom and under bathroom counter, there was an extraordinary amount of droppings,and became obvious they had been there for a while. We left and returned to our cabin at 3pm to find droppings still all over the floors, under the bathroom cabinets and around perimeter of the bathroom floor. It basically looked like a very quick clean (if you can call it that) but the staff even took the towels that I left on the floor (the ones with droppings on them), and returned these dirty towels to the racks in our bathroom! We did demand and got a refund for the final night but this place isn't that cheap and moreover, it was pretty frustrating that they didn't take the safety of our young kids (9 and 3 yrs) seriously. Mice are def a problem at this place because our next door duplex neighbor told us he heard mice in their cabin, and also I read in a little journal for guests to record wildlife sightings that someone last year staying in cabin#1 had mice wake them all night and woke up to find a hole in a potato chip bag. I am very disappointed to write this review as we thought most everything else was lovely. Lassen is beautiful. The food was pretty good and our kids loved the staff and activities. If they had just taken the cleanliness issue seriously, we would probably have recommended and booked again.. I did see on another trip advising website like this that someone complained about the horses being left tied for hours in the sun without water. I own horses of my own, as I ride competitively, and that review did strike a chord because I experienced the same thing. While the staff relaxed at lunch in the shade, they left the horses that had just returned from a long trail ride, tied up, in full sun with all tack (saddles, bridles) on, and no access to the water for (at least) 1 1/2 hrs (I left,so no clue how long they stood there like that). I would never treat my horses like that...I'm surprised they don't have any type of shade for horses in their pens either. Personally, I think it's pretty cruel, but that part is my 2 cents as I treat my animals differently. read more

I'm so sad. I've lived in Chester 10 years and finally made it up to Drakesbad for the first time today. We booked our reservation over a week ahead of time for lunch and swimming for 12 people for my sisters birthday. We got there to find out the pool was closed. They were able to call and confirm our reservation a week ago but somehow not tell us that the pool wouldn't be open. The servers and waitress were very polite however the blonde female manager on duty was atrocious. When my sister went to address how upset she was in the lack of professionalism on letting us know about the pool, I witnessed firsthand this manager belittle her and talk down to her because we weren't overnight guests. She went on to argue with my sister and eventually offered to "let us come up and swim" in the future but stated that in no way would lunch be included. This was after the manager argued, was overtly rude, had an angry tone and demeanor, and was overall treating us like a waste of time. They don't value the business of the locals here and apparently only care for those staying overnight. Several guests stopped and talked to us about how angry they were that they were not told about the pool closure. Even a bridal party had their day ruined! Lunch was a joke. They had a delicious tomato soup. But the other options were cold, soggy and so unique that it was hard to convince the kids to eat. It was lentils, curry, soup, or a stale bread sandwich we had to make ourselves. For $13.40 a person (adult or child) to come up just for lunch, the lunch was minimal and lacking. I didn't feel it was worth half the price. Finally we tried to appease the six sad kids we had in tow by offering to pay for horseback rides only to be told that because of "liability reasons" they haven't even gotten horseback riding approved yet this year. Way to go Drakesbad, you have let down countless guests, hurt the local economy, and shown horrible customer service. I really hope you find a new manager and change your ways before I visit again. read more

Since there have been only a few reviews for the past 2 years in which Drakesbad has been under new management, I decided it was time for me to chime in. We have gone to Drakesbad both in 2012 and 2013, in late September/early October for both years. We stayed in the lodge, ate at the dining hall, soaked in the pool, rode the horses, and hiked on the trails. THESE TWO YEARS HAVE BEEN OUR BEST VACATIONS EVER! I yell that, not only because we were totally out of cell phone/internet range and felt the joy of that, but because this place has everything we require in a vacation - clean rooms, superb management, good food, good companionship, peace and quiet, and easy access to the wonders of nature. The hosts, Pat and Valerie, are accommodating and ever-present. They are very interesting people, too. The staff is always personable and eager to please. The chef is creative and accomplished. The food is amazing and plentiful. The hot springs pool is relaxing, well-tended and exactly what you would expect. The rooms were impeccably clean and comfortable. The lodge had a fire each evening, and during the days when it was a bit chilly. I have no complaints. Now to the specifics of this year's trip. It was an "Occupy Drakesbad" mood when it was announced that the government was shutting down, and that we would all likely have to leave. We were finally told that we had to be out by Thursday morning. NO ONE wanted to leave - not the guests, not the staff. You would think the management and staff would get pretty depressed by this news - they were getting laid off early, after all. BUT NO! They did everything to make our stay as delightful as ever! We even had a "party" of sorts in which the staff and remaining guests all dined together on the final night (Wednesday) (with consent of all the guests first, of course). We made some memories that we are never going to forget. Delicious food, interesting people...GHOST STORIES!!! We have already made our reservations for next year. See you there!! read more

We stayed the night of October 5th, 2018. Low rating is primarily due to poor/limited food options and preparation at breakfast and dinner, and even the sack lunch order was bungled. Gold Lake Lodge does a much better job with food and service than Drakesbad. The pool was nice in the afternoon-evening but on the cool side in the morning except for one corner. One of the three light bulbs in our room was dead. Don't order white wine with dinner - its far too cold (kept same frig as the beer I think). Next time we will come here only for lunch (and a hike ) - when you buy lunch it includes pool privileges. read more

My family just returned from another wonderful stay at Drakesbad Ranch. Beloved Ed and Billie are no longer managing the ranch, but new manager Erol did a great job. There are some changes--the bath house has been nicely remodeled and in the afternoons there is archery and arts/crafts. The food was better than ever this year, WOW! Don't miss the Wednesday night BBQ. This is definitely a rustic place--many of the cabins have no electricity and there is no cell service or WiFi (and the lack of cell/WiFi is a bonus IMO). This is a great place to get away from it all but still have a roof over your head and gourmet meals. It's a remote part of Lassen Volcanic National Park, with great hikes, a beautiful swimming hole (near the campground), and a hot-springs-fed pool. Love it! read more

The boyfriend and I had amazing time at drakesbad we enjoyed the beautiful scenery and natural hot springs pool. We had a truly wonderful dinner we came on Saturday night and enjoyed the prime rib everything was fantastic! Especially the customer service! Our waiter was very attentive to us. We will definitely be coming back to visit soon! Maybe next time on a Wednesday to try the bbq night. read more

This used to be a outstanding stop for PCT hikers. Poor service and very small portions. Go to Old Station. Ed is gone

An absolutely beautiful setting. Great food. Friendly staff. No phones, TV, (or power for the most part). Heaven. Did I mention the food? Lassen National Park is a fabulous piece of nature and Drakesbad is its crown jewel. Wonderful hiking trails. Don't miss Devil's Kitchen. read more

Booked a reservation 3 weeks in advanced for the shortest ride that they had available. Drove 45 minutes to the ranch and learned that they cancelled my reservation with no explanation why. They claim that they left 4 voice mails with an explanation why they cancelled. I did not have reception for the whole week I was there so there were no messages to back up their claim. Had to wait to 2 days before checking my phone, and the only explanation they gave was that they overbooked the rides and decided to cancel ours. Horrible business practice and horrible customer service, will not use again read more

This place is spectacular! We enjoyed the wonderful dinner. The staff is awesome and the unplugged environment is a blessing.

This place is a godsend for PCT hikers and other environment-friendly travelers to this corner of Lassen Volcanic National Park. When contacting the Drakesbad folks, don't be put off by any apparent gruffness in this European-dominated staff. This is actually a very friendly, accommodating place. I've not stayed in the guest rooms here, but we had a tasty dinner here, during which the kitchen was happy to deal with our kids' food allergies. It was one of the best meals I've had at a National Park concession in fact, doubly surprising given the remote location (the last few miles to the place are dirt) and local monopoly. And here's the kicker: eat a meal there, and you can use the showers and warm mineral spring-fed swimming pool for free (though they prefer you bring your own towel)! Meal prices are reasonable given the quality, remote location and NPS markups. They even offer cheap "hiker meals" for about ten bucks during off-hours. Not surprisingly, we saw plenty of tired, hungry, Pacific Crest Trail backpackers coming here. Definitely worth patronizing, and during the Summer, you'd better call in advance, even if you're only coming to dinner. read more

I last left a review in 2011 when I section hiked that section of the pct during the early season. In 2015 I went back for the whole pct and when I came through (although they were closed for the season) they still let me hang out and charge my phone and grab some water/eat lunch. Good folks. read more

Newer owners or managers have screwed this great old place, not good in many areas, but ok in others. The place was great and friendly years back, now you never know. We stayed 5 years ago great food, service, very friendly. Now not worth the disapointment, hope they figure it out. read more

This year was my third vacation at Drakesbad Ranch in Lassen Volcanic National Park; it is such a peaceful and relaxing vacation spot. The food this year was exceptional, much better than my prior two visits. The new afternoon activities (crafts/archery) are a great addition for kids and adults alike. Evenings around the campfire making s'mores and meeting new people is so enjoyable and special. The accommodations are rustic but comfortable--be sure to bring a flashlight and lantern as many rooms don't have electricity (and the kerosene lanterns are fine but don't throw a lot of light). I will definitely be returning to this wonderful place! read more

I'm basing my review on the location, dinner and ambiance. First you head there on a paved road and the last two miles are on an unpaved road but I was in a small rental & it was no problem. We arrived at this very quaint lodge surrounded by rustic cabins and I felt transcended back in time. I haven't been here since I was a kid. Forget your computers, phones, tv etc. this is a place to relax, read, hike and enjoy nature. Dinner was fun. served outdoors. They had a large BBQ set-up outside serving salads, potatoes, veggies, tri-tip with nice crust & tender, burgers, brats, chicken and excellent ribs. Desserts served were cream brûlée and brownies. Generous wine pours. Everything I had was excellent. Dinner runs about $83 for two, that included 3 glasses of wine & gratuity. Have a thermal pool you can enjoy before dinner. Or you can take a hike to the hot springs 1.5 hours. Must make dinner reservations if you aren't a guest. Highly recommend for a fun time. Service friendly. Casual dress. read more