The Steel Visitor Center is open from 9 AM to 5 PM from late April to early November, and 10 AM to 4 PM from early November to late April. It is closed on Christmas Day. The Rim Visitor Center is open from 9:30 AM to 5 PM from late May to September.
At Crater Lake National Park, the entrance fee is $30 per vehicle for a 7-day pass. Pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists pay $15 for 7 days. An annual pass costs $55. Children under 16 enter free. Commercial vehicle fees vary by capacity.
Drive via Hwy 62 or 138; nearest airports: Medford (75 mi), Klamath Falls (60 mi). Bus to nearby cities with rental or tour connection.
At Crater Lake National Park, parking is available at various locations including Rim Village and Park Headquarters. Mazama Village has parking for cars, RVs (with some full hookups), and motorcycles. Overnight parking is permitted in designated areas. No additional parking fees beyond entrance fees.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Crater Lake National Park in southern Oregon is home to the deepest lake in the U.S., formed by a volcanic eruption over 7,700 years ago. Its iconic blue waters, dramatic cliffs, and pristine forests make it a standout natural attraction. The park offers over 90 miles of hiking trails, wildlife viewing, waterfalls, and ranger-led educational experiences. In summer, visitors enjoy Rim Drive, boat tours to Wizard Island, and swimming. In winter, it transforms into a snow-covered wonderland with cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. A haven for adventure and tranquility, Crater Lake is a destination for all seasons.
- Area (mi²)
- 286
- Annual visitors
- 527 000
- Established year
- 1902
Top 3 Facts about Crater Lake National Park
The lake’s water clarity is exceptional, allowing visibility of over 30 meters, and its maximum depth is approximately 594 meters, making it the deepest lake in the United States.
Exceptional water clarity, often exceeding 100 feet.
Holds the U.S. record for snowfall in a season—93 feet in 1932–33.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Night Sky & Astronomy
- Scavenger Hunts
- Volunteer & Stewardship
- Youth Conservation
- Scouting Partnerships
- Virtual Junior Activities
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Reserve lodging and campsites well in advance for summer visits. Research road and trail conditions.
Pack Appropriately
Weather can be unpredictable—even in summer. Pack layers, waterproof gear, sturdy shoes, and sun protection.
Respect Wildlife
Crater Lake is home to black bears. Store food properly and follow all posted wildlife safety guidelines.
Stay Informed
Altitude may impact some visitors. Stay hydrated, monitor for altitude sickness, and plan slower acclimation activities.
Seasons
Spring offers wildflowers, wildlife sightings, waterfalls from snowmelt, and mild temperatures. Some areas may still have snow. Check conditions before visiting.
Peak season with open facilities, clear skies, lake access for swimming, boating, and hiking. Lodging fills quickly—reserve early.
Late Sept–Nov: Crisp air, thinner crowds, stunning fall foliage, and reflective lake views. Hiking is ideal, but some facilities begin closing.
Dec–March: Quiet snowy landscapes ideal for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Limited road access—check weather before visiting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Crater Lake National Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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To be close to the park, you can stay in areas like Mazama Village, which is inside the park, or nearby towns such as Chemult, Shady Cove, or Klamath Falls. Mazama Village is the closest option, with the Mazama Village Motor Inn just 4.8 miles from the lake. For more amenities, Klamath Falls is about 57 miles away and offers several hotels.
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The Castle Crest Wildflower Loop is a great option, as it is an easy 0.4-mile hike close to the lake’s entrance, making it accessible for kids of all ages. The Godfrey Glen Trail, a 1-mile loop near Annie Spring, is also a family-friendly choice. Both trails offer scenic views and are manageable for children.
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You can bring your dog to the park, but they are only allowed on paved roads, parking lots, and up to 50 feet beyond paved areas. Dogs are also permitted on specific trails like the Godfrey Glen Trail and Lady of the Woods Trail, and in the Mazama Village campground, but not inside any park buildings or on most trails. Service dogs are an exception and can go anywhere in the park.
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Parking is available, including designated areas for overnight parking at Rim Village and Park Headquarters. There are also parking lots for vehicles, RVs, campers, and trailers near the visitor center and other facilities. However, be aware that some roads and parking areas may be closed due to heavy snowfall.
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Drive the 33-mile West Rim Drive to enjoy scenic views from spots like Discovery Point and Watchman Overlook. Hike the 2.2-mile Cleetwood Cove Trail, the only trail that takes you down to the lake’s edge, where you can swim, wade, or cliff jump. Consider taking a boat tour, which lasts about two hours, or a longer tour that includes a visit to Wizard Island.
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Crater Lake National Park is not closing entirely, but beginning in 2026, all lake access will be temporarily closed for a multi-year rehabilitation project. The closure affects the Cleetwood Cove Trail, the only legal route to the shoreline, as well as boat tours, swimming, and direct lake access. The trail will be closed through 2028, with a full reopening anticipated in summer 2029.
The reason? After decades of heavy use and extreme weather conditions, the trail has become unstable due to erosion, rockfall hazards, and deteriorating retaining walls. Additionally, the marina infrastructure and composting toilet facilities—some dating back decades—no longer meet safety or visitor needs.
During this time, the National Park Service will rebuild the trail, replace the failed marina, and install upgraded amenities. Construction is limited to summer months due to heavy snowfall, which extends the timeline. While the shoreline will be off-limits, Rim Drive, hiking trails, scenic lookouts, and visitor centers will remain open, offering spectacular views of Crater Lake’s sapphire-blue waters and Wizard Island.
