Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Crater Lake National Park adventure.
Take in dramatic views and crystalline water at the deepest lake in the country.
Named for its centerpiece caldera lake, formed by a volcanic eruption nearly 8,000 years ago, Crater Lake National Park—the only national park in Oregon—offers miles of snowshoeing and hiking trails, along with ranger programs, fishing, and boat tours. Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the US, and a highlight for many visitors is the chance to go boating out to Wizard Island in the middle of the water. A segment of the iconic Pacific Crest Trail passes also through the park, and while hikers love it here, the park is equally fun to explore by car with a drive along the crater’s rim to experience miles of incredible views.
As Oregon's only national park, Crater Lake National Park is among the most popular outdoor destinations in the state. The park is named for its sapphire-hued caldera lake—the deepest in the US. While the area is covered with snow throughout much of the year, summers are sublime—and area cabins fill up fast. Cabin rentals are available inside the park at The Cabins at Mazama Village, which is operated by the park's concessionaire, but they get snagged up well in advance. Just don’t expect a standalone cabin: each cabin houses four private accommodations that feel a bit more like hotel rooms than rustic getaways. Plenty of private cabins can also be found for rent in the vicinity, notably in and around the nearby gateway town of Chiloquin and in the surrounding Umpqua National Forest. Look out for A-frames, tiny houses, and log cabins near Crater Lake, oftentimes with amenities like full kitchens, wood-burning stoves, and wifi.
While Crater Lake is open year-round, it’s a summer destination and is at its busiest in July and August. September and early October see fewer crowds but still have nice weather, but things tend to take a turn by late October, when snowfall forces the park to close many of its roads. The North Entrance and West and East Rim Drives are always shut after the first major snowstorm or on November 1, whichever comes first. The North Entrance and West Rim Drive usually open in May or June, and East Rim Drive generally opens between late June and mid-July, depending on snow.