Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake National Park, located in southern Oregon, is a stunning natural gem known for its deep blue lake and breathtaking views. Situated in the Cascade Mountain Range, the park's main attraction is Crater Lake, which is the deepest lake in the United States and the seventh deepest in the world.

The historical background of Crater Lake is intriguing. It was formed around 7,700 years ago when Mount Mazama, a volcano, collapsed, resulting in a massive crater. Over time, rain and snow accumulated, forming the pristine lake that fills the caldera today. The Klamath Native American tribe, who inhabited the region for thousands of years, revered the lake as a sacred place.

Visitors to Crater Lake National Park can partake in a variety of outdoor activities. Hiking is a popular choice, with numerous trails offering breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding landscape. The Rim Drive, which encircles the lake for 33 miles, provides countless viewpoints and access to various trailheads. During winter, the park transforms into a snow lover's paradise, attracting visitors for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

The park's signature boat tour takes visitors to Wizard Island, a volcanic cinder cone that rises from the center of the lake. Exploring the island on foot offers unique views and a chance to witness the volcanic activity up close. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, there are several picnic areas and scenic drives that offer beautiful vistas.

Crater Lake National Park is also rich in wildlife, including bald eagles, elk, and black bears. Birdwatchers will appreciate the park's diverse avian population, which includes peregrine falcons and numerous species of waterfowl.

While the park itself offers an incredible experience, there are also several attractions nearby. The nearby Rogue River, famous for its whitewater rafting and fishing opportunities, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, visitors can explore the nearby Umpqua National Forest, which offers stunning waterfalls, hiking trails, and camping spots.

In summary, Crater Lake National Park in Oregon is a natural wonder with a fascinating historical past. The deep blue lake, formed by a volcanic collapse, attracts visitors with its breathtaking beauty. With activities like hiking, boating, and wildlife spotting, there is much to explore within the park. Moreover, nearby attractions like the Rogue River and Umpqua National Forest offer additional opportunities for outdoor adventures.

Crater Lake National Park is nestled in the heart of southwestern Oregon, occupying a sprawling 183,224 acres of diverse landscapes and breathtaking natural beauty. Located in the southern part of the state, the park lies within the boundaries of the Cascade Range, a stunning volcanic mountain range stretching from northern California to southern British Columbia. Crater Lake itself, renowned for its vibrant cobalt blue waters, is the centerpiece of the national park and also the deepest lake in the United States. Surrounded by towering cliffs and encircled by dense forests, the park showcases a unique blend of jagged peaks, lush greenery, and serene waters, making it an idyllic destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Address & Contact

Crater Lake National Park
1 Sager Building
Crater Lake, OR 97604
Driving Directions
Phone: 5415943000
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Crater Lake National Park is during the months of June, July, and August. These months offer pleasant weather with average maximum temperatures of 58°F to 70°F and average minimum temperatures of 33°F to 42°F. Additionally, the average monthly precipitation during this time is minimal, with values ranging from 0.5 in to 0.8 in. These months also attract a high number of visitors. Thus, you can enjoy outdoor activities in favorable weather conditions while still experiencing a relatively busy park atmosphere.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Crater Lake National Park are: Astronomy Stargazing Food Picnicking Guided Tours Self-Guided Tours - Walking Hands-On Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Park Film Museum Exhibits Shopping Bookstore and Park Store Gift Shop and Souvenirs Biking Road Biking Camping Backcountry Camping Car or Front Country Camping Hiking Front-Country Hiking Boating Fishing Backcountry Hiking Skiing Cross-Country Skiing Snowmobiling Auto and ATV Scenic Driving Snow Play Snowshoeing Swimming Self-Guided Tours - Auto Boat Tour RV Camping Dining Bus/Shuttle Guided Tour Citizen Science Compass and GPS Off-Trail Permitted Hiking Orienteering

Topics

Learn about these topics at Crater Lake National Park: Animals Birds Geology Night Sky Architecture and Building Arts Native American Heritage Cats (wild) Fish Fire Trails Unique Species Wilderness Explorers and Expeditions Wolves Watersheds Painting Photography Climate Change Forests and Woodlands Lakes Mountains Natural Sounds Scenic Views Waterfalls Wetlands Elk Coniferous Forests Rare Endangered Volcanoes Headwaters Poetry and Literature

Visitor Centers

Steel Information Center

Steel Information Center has reopened after a major structural renovation to stabilize the building against seismic and excessive snow load forces. The historic integrity of this former ranger dormitory, now known as the Steel Information Center, remains while accessibility and safety have been increased for all visitors and staff. The building received get new electric wiring, IT cabling, plumbing, heating, and an updated interior building layout.

Campsites within or near Crater Lake National Park

Lost Creek Campground

CLOSED ALL YEAR 2024 Lost Creek Campground is managed by the National Park Service. It usually opens in early July and closes in mid-October, depending on weather and other factors. It is for tent campers only--NO RVs, buses, trailers, or vans and truck with toilets. Registration is self-serve on the day of arrival. No advance registration is available. The campground fills by mid-afternoon. The only means of knowing site availability is upon arrival at the campground. The elevation 6,000 ft. (1,829 m).
Fees (US$): 5.00 (Tent Only)
Total Campsites: 16
Toilets: Portable Toilets - seasonal
Showers: None
Potable Water: No water

Mazama Campground

Mazama Campground is open only in summer. It typically opens in June and closes in late September. The exact opening and closing dates are determined each year by the snow level in the camp sites, safety issues, and other factors. The campground is nestled in an old-growth forest at 6,000 ft. (1,829 m) in elevation. There are 214 sites each with a picnic table, fire ring, and bear-resistant food locker. The concessioner, ExplorCraterLake, manages the campground. For more details go to reservations.
Fees (US$): 21.00 (Tent Site), 31.00 (RV No-hookups), 36.00 (RV Electricity Only), 42.00 (RV Full Hookups), 5.00 (PCT Hikers and Bicyclist Walk-In Camp)
Total Campsites: 214
Toilets: Flush Toilets - seasonal
Showers: Coin-Operated - Seasonal
Potable Water: Yes - seasonal

Hotels within or near Crater Lake National Park

Eagle Crater Lake Inn

When you a stay at Eagle Crater Lake Inn in Chemult, you'll be in the mountains, just steps from Cascade Range and Fremont-Winema National Forest. Featured amenities include a business center, express check-out, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 108915 U.S. 97, Chemult, Oregon 97731
Web: Link

Crater Lake Lodge - Inside the Park

When you a stay at Crater Lake Lodge - Inside the Park in Crater Lake, you'll be on a lake, just steps from Cascade Range and Rim Visitor Center. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 565 Rim Drive, Crater Lake National Park, Crater Lake, Oregon 97604
Web: Link

Lemolo Lake Resort

When you a stay at Lemolo Lake Resort in Idleyld Park, you'll be on a lake, just steps from Umpqua National Forest and Cascade Range. The front desk is staffed during limited hours. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2610 Birds Point Road, Idleyld Park, Oregon 97447
Web: Link

Union Creek Resort

With a stay at Union Creek Resort in Prospect, you'll be on a river, just a 1-minute walk from Cascade Range and 5 minutes by foot from Rogue River. Featured amenities include express check-out and a library. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 56484 Highway 62, Prospect, Oregon 97536
Web: Link

Melita's Crater Lake Adventures

When you stay at Melita's Crater Lake Adventures in Chiloquin, you'll be in the mountains, within a 5-minute drive of Train Mountain Railroad Museum and Kla-Mo-Ya Casino. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 39500 N. Highway 97, Chiloquin, Oregon 97624
Web: Link

Sleep Inn & Suites

With a stay at Sleep Inn & Suites in Chiloquin, you'll be just steps from Cascade Range and Kla-Mo-Ya Casino. Featured amenities include a business center, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 34333 Hwy 97 N, Chiloquin, Oregon 97624
Web: Link