Diamond Lake Campground provides a convenient base for exploring Crater Lake National Park, located just 20 minutes away. The campground sits at 5,180 feet elevation in the Umpqua National Forest and remains open from mid-May through October 1. Visitors can expect cooler temperatures at night even during summer months due to the high elevation.
What to do
Swimming and water activities: Diamond Lake offers a refreshing alternative to viewing the deep blue waters of Crater Lake. "This campground has beautiful lake views, access to bathrooms and showers, and ice cream and firewood just a walk or bike ride away! The only complaint I have is there's a lot of mosquitoes," notes Macy G. from Diamond Lake Campground.
Explore waterfalls: The Umpqua National Forest surrounding the Crater Lake region features numerous waterfall hikes. "We would definitely consider returning during better weather. The staff recommended a nearby waterfall hike that we could do in inclement weather," shares Lee D. from Umpqua's Last Resort.
Visit historic sites: Several campgrounds near Crater Lake feature historic attractions. At Collier Memorial State Park, "down the easy 1-mile trail along the spring creek, they have a super cool old pioneer village and lumber museum. It's full of olde tyme cabins and era timber industry tools and equipment," explains Tj B.
What campers like
Proximity to national park: Many visitors choose campgrounds based on convenient access to Crater Lake. "Stayed here while visiting Crater Lake NP. Very nice and quiet! Easy to find and very nice staff," reports Tyler S. from Diamond Lake Campground.
Night sky viewing: The high elevation and limited light pollution create exceptional stargazing conditions. "At night you can see so many stars and meteors. Excellent for watching meteor showers," writes Autumn O. about Lost Creek Campground.
Quiet atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the peaceful settings. "We loved this campsite. There were fire pits available for use at the sites. We were able to see soooo many stars in the sky!!" shares Fiona W. about her stay at Collier Memorial State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: "Lost Creek Campground is closed to the public and has been for a couple years. Only fire crews working in the park are allowed to stay here," warns Beth A., highlighting the importance of checking current campground status.
Mosquito activity: Several campgrounds report significant mosquito populations during summer months. "The campsite was great, the views of the lake were stunning, minutes from Crater Lake NP. Be prepared to fend off mosquitoes if you're going in the summer!" advises Candice B.
Reservation requirements: Joseph H. Stewart County Park fills quickly during peak season. "First time camping here. We did a mix of RV and tent at one site. Half the sites were closed for the season which made for a quiet stay," notes Jennifer E., suggesting visiting during shoulder seasons for better availability.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: "I'm a little bias... at this park you can find tons of hiking trails, wide open spaces, very friendly staff, bathrooms, showers, electric/water hook ups as well as playgrounds for kids," writes Marcus V. about Joseph H. Stewart County Park.
Educational opportunities: Families can combine camping with learning experiences. "The logging museum is huge and worth a visit. River is clear and beautiful. Sites are clean and nice. Tent and RV sites available. Beware of the Chipmunks! They are everywhere," warns Melynda L. about Collier Memorial State Park.
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. "I used it to cut sticks to size with the saw, and widdle/sharpen sticks with the standard blade. It keeps an edge nicely. I didn't get a chance to use the wire cutters, but it has hard and soft wire cutters and they are replaceable," shares a camper about their outdoor tools at Collier Memorial State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: At Rocky Point Resort, "I booked a pull through spot online, when I arrived the owner walked around with me recommending available spots with a better view. We stayed at a nice full hook up site with a great view of the lake," reports Matt D.
Hookup availability: "We are at site 23 for a smaller travel trailer right on the water, with a partial hookup at this site. It's a beautiful quiet space where the birds wake you; you can make your coffee and walk out on the dock to watch the sunrise," notes Laural O. about Rocky Point Resort.
Advance planning required: RV campers should be aware of size limitations at some campgrounds. "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," explains Kyahn D. about their experience at Diamond Lake.
