Crater Lake National Park offers several camping options near its stunning blue waters. The closest places to camp include Mazama Village Campground, Lost Creek Campground, Lemolo Lake / Crater Lake North KOA Holiday, and Diamond Lake RV Park. These campgrounds provide various amenities and experiences, from primitive tent camping to full RV hookups, all within a reasonable distance from the iconic lake.
What Are the Closest Campgrounds to Crater Lake?
- Mazama Village Campground (7 miles from Rim Village)
- Lost Creek Campground (within Crater Lake National Park)
- Diamond Lake RV Park (approximately 15 miles from the park)
- Lemolo Lake / Crater Lake North KOA Holiday (34 miles to Rim Village)
What Amenities Are Available at Mazama Village Campground?
Mazama Village Campground, the main campground within Crater Lake National Park, offers:
- 214 campsites, including 15 electrical hookup sites
- Picnic tables and fire rings
- Metal food lockers (bear country regulations apply)
- Flush toilets and showers
- Seasonal operation (typically late May to early October)
- Reservations through recreation.gov
How Does Lost Creek Campground Differ from Other Options?
Lost Creek Campground provides a more primitive camping experience:
- 16 tent-only campsites
- Flush toilets available
- No hookups or showers
- Generators prohibited
- First-come, first-served basis
- Open seasonally (early July to mid-October, weather permitting)
- Affordable at $5 per night
What Makes Lemolo Lake / Crater Lake North KOA Holiday Unique?
This KOA offers a different experience:
- Located 34 miles from Rim Village
- 32 RV sites with full hookups
- Access to Lemolo Lake for fishing, boating, and kayaking
- Gravel pads, picnic tables, and fire pits
- Open from March to October
- Reservations through the KOA website
What Are the Features of Diamond Lake RV Park?
Diamond Lake RV Park provides:
- Approximately 15 miles from Crater Lake National Park
- RV sites with full hookups
- Laundry facilities
- Potable water and dump station
- Open year-round
- Reservations through the park’s website or third-party platforms
How Do Camping Costs Compare Among These Options?
| Campground | Cost per Night |
|---|---|
| Mazama Village | $30-$40 |
| Lost Creek | $5 |
| Lemolo Lake KOA | $60-$75 |
| Diamond Lake RV Park | $30-$50 |
What Are the Reservation Processes for These Campgrounds?
- Mazama Village and Lost Creek: Use recreation.gov
- Lemolo Lake KOA: Book through the KOA website
- Diamond Lake RV Park: Reserve via the park’s website or third-party platforms
What Unique Features Does Each Campground Offer?
Mazama Village Campground
- Beautiful forest setting
- Close proximity to Crater Lake
- Modern amenities
Lost Creek Campground
- Primitive camping experience
- Located within Crater Lake National Park
- Very affordable
Lemolo Lake KOA
- Large lake for water activities
- Off the beaten path
- Full hookups for RVs
Diamond Lake RV Park
- Year-round operation
- Close to Diamond Lake
- Full RV amenities
What Are the Accessibility Challenges for Each Campground?
- Mazama Village: Closed from mid-October to late May due to snow
- Lost Creek: Short seasonal window, no hookups
- Lemolo Lake KOA: 34 miles from Rim Village
- Diamond Lake RV Park: No significant challenges noted
By considering these factors, campers can choose the best option for their Crater Lake adventure, balancing proximity, amenities, and personal preferences.
References:
1. https://gorvrentals.com/blog/crater-lake-rv-camping
2. https://www.parkrangerjohn.com/crater-lake-national-park-camping-guide/
3. https://www.nps.gov/crla/planyourvisit/mazama_campground.htm