Cabins near Crater Lake are situated in forested areas at elevations averaging 5,000-6,000 feet, resulting in cool nights even during summer months. Many cabin rentals operate seasonally from late spring through early fall due to heavy winter snowfall that can reach 43 feet annually. Temperatures commonly drop below freezing overnight from September through June, making proper insulation essential for comfortable cabin stays.
What to do
Boat rentals at Diamond Lake: Located 40 minutes north of Crater Lake, Diamond Lake offers fishing and boating opportunities. "Clear waters, spectacular Mountain Views. Swimming, hiking, camping, fishing, the possibilities are endless," notes a visitor to Diamond Lake Campground.
Hike Annie Creek Trail: Accessible directly from camping areas. "We loved that we could access the Annie Creek trail from within the campground! Our particular spots were large and private," reports a camper from Mazama Village Campground.
Canoe on Fort Klamath Creek: Free canoe rentals are available at some cabin properties. "The resort offered free canoe rentals, but we had brought our own kayaks and used them in the slow moving creek," explains a guest at Crater Lake Resort.
Wildlife watching: Woodland areas surrounding cabins offer bird and wildlife viewing opportunities. "The wildlife is so cool. Great spot for birdwatching! Be wary of bears though. Each site provides a bear box to help ward them off," advises a Mazama Village visitor.
What campers like
Proximity to trails: Many cabin sites offer direct trail access for hiking. "We passed a couple before finding a spot that would fit our 10X14 tent and had the right trees for 2 hammocks, while also feeling a little spacious," shares a Mazama camper describing site selection.
Off-grid relaxation: Limited connectivity provides a true escape. "Charming full service camp ground on a quaint little river. 23 miles south of the actual Crater Lake. Bucolic, peaceful, quiet. Forget Wi-Fi - as even the enhanced barely works - but we didn't care - it was a perfect getaway," writes a visitor to Crater Lake Resort.
Early season access: For those seeking solitude, early season offers advantages. "The park isn't in full swing even as late as the last week of June. It meant for us, that the park wasn't very crowded at all. In fact, setting out in the morning hours left us feeling like we had the park to ourselves," explains a Mazama Village camper.
Private beaches: Some lakefront cabin areas include secluded shorelines. "If you are a tent camper and want to camp here, be sure to get walk in sites 30-32 for an enjoyable stay. If you do, you'll enjoy your own private beach secluded from any neighbors on any sides," recommends a visitor to KOA Lemolo Lake/Crater Lake North.
What you should know
Weather variability: Mountain weather changes rapidly with occasional snow even in summer. "The weather can be cold; there are still snow patches, and we were told it snowed the week before we came. I believe June begins with a park covered in at least a few inches of snow," observes a Mazama visitor.
Limited facilities: Many cabin areas have restricted shower access. "I do not like that you pay to stay AND pay to take a shower, $1 for 2 1/2 minutes, and you can only go up in increments of $1. I used $3, and it was not enough," reports a camper at Rocky Point Resort.
Supply planning: Remote cabin locations require thorough provisioning. "Plan ahead because it seems the secret is out - these sites fill up 2 months + in advance. The RV sites seem ok but none of them are lakefront. I would recommend having everything you will need for your trip because the closest grocery store is 60 miles away," advises a KOA Lemolo Lake visitor.
Seasonal closures: Off-season visitors face limited options. "The crater is epic. Hiking sporadic as everything is still snow packed in places," notes a Mazama camper visiting during construction season.
Tips for camping with families
Check site orientation: Some cabin sites have unusual layouts affecting usability. "We had to turn around because it was closed for fire, and there is no cell signal in any of this area, so we could not call the park. We were at Mazama campground where our site D1 was facing the opposite way so that the fire ring, picnic table and amenities was on the non door and side of our trailer," explains a visitor.
Look for recreation amenities: Some properties offer extensive activity options. "Whether you come by yourself, spouse, pet or kids, this place has it all! Basketball area, exercise, ping pong, canoe, pontoon, trampoline and more! Word has it, they're making an area for a BATTING CAGE!" shares an enthusiastic Rocky Point Resort visitor.
Ask about availability even when signs say full: Last-minute options may exist despite appearances. "We came with no reservation in the summer. The sign outside registration office said that campground was full. We still asked if there were sites available, and there were! People books sites and don't show up," advises a Mazama Village camper.
Tips from RVers
Site size verification: Confirm actual dimensions before booking cabin accommodations. "Huge campsite but it doesn't feel that way when you are at your site. The sites by the lake appeared to be much larger than the ones further up the hill. Thankfully we had two sites because on the map, it looked like both sites had a pull through area for cars, but the first one had 'parking' which was just an enlarged shoulder on the narrow road," explains a Diamond Lake camper.
Leveling challenges: Some cabin areas have poorly maintained pads. "Our RV site was so poorly graded that achieving a level setup proved impossible, even with extensive adjustment. At one point, I had three wheels completely off the ground, a clear indication of negligent site maintenance," warns a visitor to Diamond Lake RV Park.
Seasonal shower availability: Check operational status of facilities. "We came in mid march so they were still technically in their 'off season'. All the staff I spoke to were very kind and helpful. Since it was the off season the store, bathroom and restaurant were closed but it's still a really nice area to camp," reports a Rocky Point Resort visitor.
