Diamond Lake sits at 5,183 feet elevation in the Cascade Mountains of Southern Oregon, surrounded by Mount Bailey and Mount Thielsen. Camping here combines thick forest cover with open lake access, creating distinct microclimates where summer temperatures can drop into the 30s even in July. Most dispersed camping options require visitors to bring their own water supplies, though the established campgrounds offer drinking water through shared spigots.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Diamond Lake provides some of Oregon's best trout fishing experiences. Campers at Diamond Lake RV Park appreciate the accessibility for anglers, with one visitor noting, "When the bite's on the fishing is amazing. Have never been skunked on this lake." The lake is regularly stocked with rainbow trout.
Waterfall exploration: Several notable waterfalls surround the Diamond Lake area within short driving distance. A camper at Clearwater Falls Campground shared, "You can take a very short hike to the falls and there are a couple of nice footbridges over the river below the falls to get to both sides." Most waterfall trails are under a mile round-trip with minimal elevation gain.
Winter sports: While summer camping dominates the area, winter activities are available when campgrounds reopen seasonally. During colder months, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails connect the campgrounds. Snowmobile rentals operate from Diamond Lake Resort between December and March, weather permitting.
What campers like
Tent site locations: Many campers specifically praise the lakefront tent options at certain campgrounds. At KOA Lemolo Lake / Crater Lake North, one reviewer recommended, "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."
Historic campground features: Several campgrounds preserve historic Civilian Conservation Corps structures. Visitors to Thielson Forest Camp mentioned its unique amenities: "This campground has the nicest composting bathrooms of any campsite I've ever visited, as well as beautifully built stone fireplaces, some with fire boxes. Massive, ancient trees tower over the campgrounds."
Accessibility to Crater Lake: The Diamond Lake area serves as a gateway to Crater Lake National Park. A camper at NF-70 Dispersed Camping Near Crater Lake NP shared, "Really loved this spot was nice and flat and open. Close to Crater Lake and hikes. Had service and didn't run into too many people." Most dispersed sites around Diamond Lake are within 40 minutes of Crater Lake's north entrance.
What you should know
Weather variability: The high elevation creates unexpected weather patterns throughout summer. A visitor to Broken Arrow Campground noted, "We stayed in Broken arrow with our Scouts in July of 2021 and found it surprisingly cool at night for it being July. Temps dropped in the the low 30's both nights we stayed at the campground."
Limited services: Most campgrounds have minimal facilities and distant supply options. One KOA Lemolo Lake camper advised, "When they say you're 'away from it all', that means stock up on supplies BEFORE you get to your campsite. The closest grocery store is 60 miles away."
Road conditions: Access to dispersed camping locations often requires preparation. A visitor to Mount Thielsen Wilderness explained, "The road to the top is fairly steep/rough at the first section but then seems easy but bumpy onwards. I saw a non-four wheel drive car make it up by gunning it at that steep part."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for privacy: Family groups often need more space between neighboring sites. At Thielsen View Campground, a camper advised, "If you want better views and almost lake side spots, go for the sites in loop B and any others on the lake side of the loops. They aren't directly on the lake but just across the camp road."
Activity planning: The 12-mile bike path around Diamond Lake provides family-friendly recreation. A visitor at Diamond Lake RV Park mentioned, "There is a 12 mile walking/bike path around the lake that is beautiful." This paved path connects most campgrounds and is suitable for all skill levels.
Dog-friendly campground considerations: When seeking dog friendly campgrounds near Diamond Lake, campers should note timing of visits due to mosquito activity. At Mount Thielsen Wilderness, which welcomes pets, a camper noted, "It was snowing at the campsite but didn't stick. When the temperature rose, there were some mosquitoes, but not many." Pets tend to be more comfortable during cooler morning and evening hours.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most dog-friendly campgrounds near Diamond Lake offer limited RV hookups. A Diamond Lake RV Park visitor noted, "Full service RV Park in the national Forest 40 minutes from Crater Lake rim. Large Park in the woods. Visited in late July and it was only half full."
Site leveling challenges: Many forest campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring preparation. One RVer visiting NF-70 Dispersed Camping shared, "We are full-timers and have a 36 ft Class A with a Cherokee Trailhawk tow. NF-70 is gravel and in pretty good shape, i.e., no potholes, but is heavily washboarded. This wasn't an issue for the Cherokee, but with a stiffer suspension, I had to limit the RV speed to less than 7 mph to keep from shaking it apart."
Off-grid preparations: RVers should plan for limited connectivity at most camping areas. A visitor to Diamond Lake RV Park cautioned, "Disappointing, and for us a disadvantage, there was no cellphone reception and no internet access possible. Also no WiFi available." Most dispersed camping areas offer better cell service than the established campgrounds.
