Best Camping near Crater Lake National Park
Camping near Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
Crater Lake National Park in Oregon is a stunning destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With its deep blue waters, dramatic cliffs, and lush forests, it's no wonder that camping near Crater Lake is a popular activity. Whether you're looking for a serene spot to pitch your tent or a family-friendly campground with amenities, the area around Crater Lake offers a variety of options to suit your needs.
From established campgrounds with modern facilities to more rustic, dispersed camping sites, there's something for everyone. In this guide, we'll explore what to do, what campers like, what you should know, tips for camping with families, and tips from RVers. We'll also highlight specific campgrounds and share insights from fellow campers to help you plan your perfect camping trip near Crater Lake National Park.
What to do
Camping near Crater Lake National Park offers a wealth of activities for nature lovers. From hiking and fishing to stargazing and wildlife watching, there's no shortage of things to do. The park itself is home to numerous trails, scenic viewpoints, and the famous Rim Drive, which offers breathtaking views of the lake.
- Hiking: Explore the many trails around Crater Lake, including the popular Rim Trail and the challenging Mount Scott Trail.
- Fishing: Try your luck fishing in the park's pristine waters or nearby lakes like Diamond Lake.
- Boating: Rent a boat or kayak at Diamond Lake and enjoy a day on the water.
- Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for deer, birds, and other wildlife that call the area home.
What campers like
Campers love the natural beauty and tranquility of the campgrounds near Crater Lake. Many appreciate the spacious sites, clean facilities, and proximity to the park's attractions. Here are some specific highlights from campers:
- Mazama Village Campground: "Spot felt private and was very quiet. Was just a nice & peaceful campground." - Cass W.
- Diamond Lake Campground: "Great spots right on the lake and it's a huge campground with tons of spots in general." - Kristi D.
- Annie Creek Sno-Park: "Spent two nights here while exploring Crater Lake. Very accessible, quiet, and quick." - Timothy R.
What you should know
While camping near Crater Lake is a fantastic experience, there are a few things you should be aware of to ensure a smooth trip. Some campgrounds have limited amenities, and the weather can be unpredictable. Here are some insights from campers:
- Mazama Village Campground: "There are THREE showers for the entire campground! If you could get in one, it was dirty, the water was cold, and the lights were out in one of them." - Mike
- Jackson F. Kimball State Recreation Site: "Toilets were stinky so I’m glad I had my private portable." - Angie A.
- Thielsen View Campground: "I started to stay here as a walk-in but was overwhelmed by the mosquitoes." - Bill T.
Tips for camping with families
Camping with family can be a rewarding experience, especially in a place as beautiful as Crater Lake. Here are some tips to make your family camping trip enjoyable:
- Choose a campground with amenities: Campgrounds like Diamond Lake offer showers, toilets, and even a market for convenience.
- Plan activities: Keep the kids entertained with activities like hiking, fishing, and exploring the nearby lakes.
- Be prepared for bugs: Mosquitoes can be a nuisance, so bring plenty of bug spray and consider using mosquito nets.
Quotes from campers:
- Diamond Lake Campground: "The camp hosts were awesome! They gave out free firewood and had free WiFi you could use." - Jason A.
- Jackson F. Kimball State Recreation Site: "The kids enjoyed playing in the water and around the site." - Pheejay D.
- Williamson River Campground: "Spaces are spread out and not on top of each other! I would for sure come back again!!" - Bri B.
Tips from RVers
RVers will find several campgrounds near Crater Lake that cater to their needs. Here are some tips for RV camping in the area:
- Check for amenities: Some campgrounds offer water and sanitary dump stations, but not all have electric hookups.
- Be mindful of the weather: The weather can change quickly, so be prepared for cold nights and sudden storms.
- Choose spacious sites: Look for campgrounds with large, level sites to accommodate your RV.
Quotes from RVers:
- Broken Arrow Campground: "This is a clean and well-maintained campground. Sites are spacious." - Cande D.
- Diamond Lake Campground: "The road and camper pads are paved, and a good amount of foliage between sites provides privacy." - Lee D.
- Williamson River Campground: "The gravel road is about a mile in and we had no trouble with our 24 ft Argosy." - Nicola M.
Camping near Crater Lake National Park offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the experience, the campgrounds around Crater Lake provide a variety of options to suit your needs. With these tips and insights from fellow campers, you're sure to have a memorable and enjoyable trip.