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Established Camping

Crack-In-The-Ground

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Crack-In-The-Ground is located near a volcanic fissure in Oregon, offering a unique terrain of rocky formations and open spaces. Temperatures can range from lows in the 30s Fahrenheit during winter to highs in the 80s during summer. Nearby attractions include the Fort Rock State Natural Area and the Christmas Valley Sand Dunes, providing opportunities for exploration and outdoor activities.

Fee Info

No Fees.

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Location

Crack-In-The-Ground is located in Oregon

Detail location of campground

Directions

From Christmas Valley, Oregon, head east on the Christmas Valley Highway for approximately 1 mile. Turn north (left) onto Crack-in-the-Ground Road and continue for about 7 miles, being sure to turn left onto Lava Craters Road, following signs to Crack in the Ground.

Coordinates

43.33281053 N
120.67600097 W

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Connectivity

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Drive Time

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Connectivity

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    T-MobileLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Toilets
  • Pets
  • Fires

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Reviews

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3.0

out of 5

1 Review

Reviewed Aug. 31, 2018

Short hike. Neat feature!

This location is primarily used for day hikes.

Ccoming from hwy 14 near Christmas valley the turn off for crack in the ground is a gravel road. When we took it was freshly grated, but as you go along there are some rough patches where it may be difficult to pass with a small car or a vehicle with low clearance. There are sparse opportunities to fit two vehicles on this road once you make the left up the hill.

The parking area is marked and well kept, including the restroom (basic vault toilet).

Trailhead is opposite of parking where there is room for maybe 10 vehicles.

This is a very dry and open area. As you travel down the trail maybe .25 miles there is a trail log box where you can sign in as well. Picnic benches are available here (2).

From here you can see the Crack in the Ground! Start your journey into the crack where it is nearly 30 degrees cooler. Quite nice on a 100 degree day!

This is a down and back trail through the crack, but you also may return on trails above ground level.

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Crack-In-The-Ground by Nicolaus N., August 31, 2018
  • Review photo of Crack-In-The-Ground by Nicolaus N., August 31, 2018
  • Review photo of Crack-In-The-Ground by Nicolaus N., August 31, 2018
  • (6) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Crack in the Ground from Christmas Valley, Oregon?

From Christmas Valley, take Highway 31 and look for the gravel road turnoff that leads to Crack in the Ground. The gravel road is occasionally graded but can have rough patches that might be challenging for small cars or vehicles with low clearance. The drive takes approximately 30 minutes from Christmas Valley. Follow signage carefully as the route is in a remote area. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended, especially after weather events that may affect road conditions.

Where can I find camping near Crack in the Ground in Oregon?

While Crack in the Ground itself is primarily a day-use area, nearby camping options include Green Mountain Campground and several BLM dispersed camping areas in the Christmas Valley region. Most visitors camp in the Christmas Valley area and make the trip to Crack in the Ground for hiking. For developed camping facilities with amenities, check out the Christmas Valley Desert Inn RV Park or head to the Fort Rock area where additional camping options are available. Always bring plenty of water as this is high desert terrain with limited facilities.

What activities can I do at Crack in the Ground besides camping?

Crack in the Ground offers excellent day hiking opportunities through its unique volcanic fissure formation. The main trail runs about 2 miles through the crack itself, where temperatures can be up to 20 degrees cooler than the surface, making it a refreshing summer activity. Photography is popular due to the dramatic rock formations. Birdwatching, geological exploration, and stargazing (the area has minimal light pollution) are other worthwhile activities. The surrounding high desert landscape also provides opportunities for wildlife viewing and exploring other nearby geological features like Fort Rock.