Lost Creek Campground — Crater Lake National Park

Managed by the National Park Service within Crater Lake National Park, Lost Creek Campground sits roughly halfway up the mountain along a gravel road that reviewers consistently flag as potholed but passable in a standard car. The campground is set in a heavily forested area, and most sites are positioned directly along the creek, giving campers immediate water access without a long walk. No electricity is available on-site, though restrooms are well maintained and trash service is provided. Pets are not permitted.

Summer visits come with a notable trade-off: open terrain means limited shade, and the campground fills up quickly during peak season. Nights, however, bring clear skies with wide visibility, making the site well-suited to stargazers and meteor shower watchers. Cell service is essentially nonexistent here, so downloading maps and trail information before arrival is worth the effort. There are multiple hiking trails accessible from the campground, and the creek itself is a consistent draw for those who want easy water access from their site.

One important note before planning a trip: as of late 2022, a reviewer identifying as Crater Lake Law Enforcement reported that the campground had been closed to the public for several years and was being used exclusively by fire crews working in the park, with tickets issued for illegal camping. Campers interested in campgrounds around Crater Lake National Park or tent camping near Crater Lake National Park should verify current access status directly with the National Park Service before making plans.