Crater Lake National Park is located in the northern Cascades of southwestern Oregon. It is well-known for its namesake Crater Lake, created by the now extinct Mount Mazama. Wizard Island is a small cinder cone on the western end of the lake. The rim drive, a hiking trail surrounding the lake, provides views of the rugged volcanic terrain of the park. The numerous hiking trails also include Sun Notch, which offers breathtaking views of the scenic volcanic terrain and the park headquarters.
The Crater Lake area is part of the Oregon Department of Land Recreation. The entire area is about a two-hour drive from Portland. Driving north from Portland will take you through the Multnomah Falls National Monument, the Snake River Gorge, Mount Hood River, and Klamath weed reservoir. Traveling south from Portland will take you through the scenic Rogue River drainage, Tillamook National Wildlife Refuge, and Wilson Creek Campgrounds. Hiking directions are available from the park office and online.
Crater Lake is surrounded by other Oregon natural beauty such as the Rogue River, the Rogue Crest and Mount Hood range, the Columbia River Gorge, the Pacific Ocean, and the Cedar Breaks National Monument. It is considered to be one of Oregon’s most popular outdoor recreation destinations. There are many outdoor campgrounds in the park. If you are planning a camping trip to the park, there are a variety of Crater Lake campgrounds where you can park your car, load up your gear, and relax among the beautiful scenery and wildlife.
There are several boat ramps, canoe and kayak rentals, and fishing opportunities at all of Crater Lake’s lakes. For those who like to fish, there is an unobstructed lake that is twenty-one acres large, with over six miles of running water. The water is clear and safe for fishing. You can fish, Rainbow Trout, Smallmouth Bluefish, and Northern Pike.
Camping at Crater Lake is extremely popular during the summer months. However, camping is available year-round. In addition to beautiful clear, and open lakes, camping can be done just about anywhere on the lake or nearby. Crater Lake State Park offers camping throughout the year. The park headquarters offers brochures, maps, and information about overnight accommodations, cabin reservations, and campground access fees and reservations.
Most camping at Crater Lake is done on a seasonal basis, although winter vacation packages are available. Resorts offer full or half-board campsites, fireplaces, picnic areas, and a welcome center with bathrooms and laundry facilities. Most parks charge a nightly camp fee; some charge an entrance fee. However, many parks offer free camping with paid park fees.
Camping at Crater Lake is most comfortable during the spring and fall months. From May through August, temperatures are moderate, with night temperatures hovering around freezing. From September through November, daytime temperatures rise above freezing but remain warm enough to allow for swimming. In fact, Crater Lake’s lakeshore features three beaches where one can relax by the water or play in the waters.
For those wishing to explore Crater Lake’s history, there is a visitor’s center with a history book, relics, and photos. There are also a number of interpretive programs that explain the meaning of various artifacts found on the lake’s lakeshore and along its beaches. To get more information about camping at Crater Lake or other state or national parks, contact your local or or campground management company. They will be able to answer any questions you have and guide you to the right campsites, dealerships, or restaurants. And, don’t forget to bring your camera!
Crater Lake State Park provides overnight accommodations at various sites throughout the lake. The park headquarters offers camping, RV hookups, and picnic areas. Camping at Crater Lake is the perfect opportunity to spend a summer at the lake with the entire family while still doing things that parents cannot forget. You’ll enjoy quiet, out-of-the-way camping in a rustic setting and a chance to explore a historically significant area of Oregon.
To access Crater Lake from Portland, take the Oregon Trail south out of town. Travel through the woods until you come to a small road that will take you closer to the lake. At this point, you will also want to make sure that you have your car packed ahead of time since there are no parks in the immediate area. Then you’ll be ready to head out to your camping spot at Crater Lake.
Camping at Crater Lake is the perfect way to end a busy weekend or summer day. Take your kids out for some good outdoor time and then head back to the city for some well-deserved relaxation. Your family will thank you for allowing them to experience this wonderful recreation. So come on, pack up your tent and your sleeping bags. There’s no need to leave the region when you can see this delightful area in just a few short hours from home.