About Crater Lake
Crater Lake inspires awe. Native Americans witnessed its formation 7,700 years ago, when a violent eruption triggered the collapse of a tall peak. Scientists marvel at its purity—fed by rain and snow, it’s the deepest lake in the USA and one of the most pristine on Earth. Artists, photographers, and sightseers gaze in wonder at its blue water and stunning setting atop the Cascade Mountain Range.
Things to do: Auto and ATV · Scenic Driving · Astronomy · Stargazing · Biking · Road Biking · Boating · Boat Tour · Camping · Backcountry Camping · Car or Front Country Camping · RV Camping · Compass and GPS · Orienteering
Popular trails
Curated routes with approximate round-trip distance. In the app, tap one to log it.
- Rim Drive33.0 mi
- Cleetwood Cove Trail2.2 mi
- Watchman Peak Trail1.5 mi
- Garfield Peak Trail3.4 mi
- Sun Notch Trail0.8 mi
- Discovery Point Trail0.8 mi
Camping
Approximately 377 campsites across the park's campgrounds. Reservations are strongly recommended in peak season (July – September).
Best time to visit
Peak season: July – September. The park is open year-round, though some roads and facilities close or run reduced hours in winter.
July, August, and September are your best bets for warm, dry weather. In May, June, and October, sunny days alternate with periods of rain and snow. Winters at Crater Lake are long and snowy. 5 meters) of snow at park headquarters. When it's raining or snowing, the lake is usually hidden by clouds. Crater Lake is completely invisible about 50% of the time in the winter!
Entrance fees
- Entrance - Private Vehicle — This is the summer entrance fee and is charged from mid-May through the end of October. Admits one private, non-commercial vehicle (15-passenger capacity or less) and all occupants. Good for 7 days.$30
- Entrance - Private Vehicle — This is the winter entrance fee. Admits one private, non-commercial vehicle (15-passenger capacity or less) and all occupants. Good for 7 days.$20
- Entrance - Motorcycle — Valid for 7 days. Admits up to 2 private, non-commercial motorcycles with up to 4 total passengers. Summer rate from mid-May to October 31st.$25
- Entrance - Motorcycle — Valid for 7 days. Admits up to 2 private, non-commercial motorcycles with up to 4 total passengers. Winter rate from 11/1 through mid-May.$15
- Entrance - Per Person — Admits one individual with no motor vehicle (bicyclist, hiker, pedestrian). Youth 15 and under are admitted free of charge. Good for 7 days.$15
Annual Entrance - Park: $55. An America the Beautiful pass ($80/yr) covers every national park.
Getting there
Nearest city: Medford, OR. Park center: 42.940°, -122.100°.
From the west (Medford) - Take Hwy 62 to the West Entrance. Open year-round. From the south (Klamath Falls) - Take Hwy 97 north to Hwy 62 to the South Entrance. Open year-round. The North Entrance is on Hwy 138 and is accessed from Interstate 5 east at Roseburg or Hwy 97 south from Bend and Chemult. Winter travelers from Roseburg take Route 138 east to Route 230 south to Route 62 east to the park's west entrance.
Travelers from Bend take Route 97 south to Route 62 to the park's south entrance.
Common questions
How much does it cost to visit Crater Lake National Park?
Entrance - Private Vehicle: $30. Entrance - Private Vehicle: $20. Entrance - Motorcycle: $25.
When is the best time to visit Crater Lake?
Peak season is July – September. The park is open year-round, with some roads and facilities on reduced winter schedules. July, August, and September are your best bets for warm, dry weather. In May, June, and October, sunny days alternate with periods of rain and snow. Winters at Crater Lake are long and snowy. 5 meters) of snow at park headquarters. When it's raining or snowing, the lake is usually hidden by clouds. Crater Lake is completely invisible about 50% of the time in the winter!
Can you camp in Crater Lake National Park?
Yes — about 377 campsites across the park's campgrounds. Reserve ahead in peak season.
What is the closest city to Crater Lake National Park?
Medford, OR is the nearest major city. From the west (Medford) - Take Hwy 62 to the West Entrance. Open year-round. From the south (Klamath Falls) - Take Hwy 97 north to Hwy 62 to the South Entrance. Open year-round. The North Entrance is on Hwy 138 and is accessed from Interstate 5 east at Roseburg or Hwy 97 south from Bend and Chemult. Winter travelers from Roseburg take Route 138 east to Route 230 south to Route 62 east to the park's west entrance.
What are the best hikes in Crater Lake?
Popular trails include Rim Drive (33.0 mi), Cleetwood Cove Trail (2.2 mi), Watchman Peak Trail (1.5 mi), Garfield Peak Trail (3.4 mi). The park has roughly 18 named trails.
Plan your trip
The practical bits, so more of the weekend goes to the trail.