Crater Lake National Park offers two primary car camping options: Mazama Village Campground and Lost Creek Campground. These sites provide diverse amenities for both tent and RV campers, with Mazama Village offering 212 sites and Lost Creek providing 16 tent-only spots. Both campgrounds are strategically located to offer easy access to the lake and other park attractions, making them ideal bases for exploring the unique beauty of Crater Lake.
Where Are the Best Places to Car Camp at Crater Lake?
Mazama Village Campground
Mazama Village Campground stands out as the premier car camping destination within Crater Lake National Park. Here’s what you need to know:
- Location: Situated 7 miles from Crater Lake’s rim, just inside the south entrance gate
- Capacity: 212 sites accommodating both tents and RVs
- Size Limits: Tents up to 12′ x 12′ and RVs up to 50 feet in length
- Proximity: Close to the lake rim, Mazama Village, and Annie Creek Restaurant and Gift Shop
- Amenities:
- Picnic tables and fire rings
- Food lockers
- Running water and sinks
- Flush toilets
- Coin-operated showers
- Laundry facilities
- General store
- Gas station with propane
- Dump station
Reservation and Availability
- Reservation System:
- 50% of sites reservable in advance
- 50% available on a first-come, first-served basis
- Book by calling 1-866-292-6720 or online
- Season: Open mid-June to early October (weather dependent)
- 2024 Season: May 24th to September 23rd
- First-come, first-served period: May 24th to June 27th
Pricing
| Site Type | Cost per Night |
|---|---|
| Tent | $21 |
| RV (no hookups) | $31 |
| RV (electrical hookups) | $36 |
| RV (full hookups) | $42 |
Note: Additional fee for persons over 18
Lost Creek Campground
For those seeking a more intimate camping experience, Lost Creek Campground offers a quieter alternative:
- Location: Southeast corner of the park, 3 miles south of the east rim drive on Pinnacles Road
- Capacity: 16 tent-only sites
- Proximity: Near east rim drive, access to various trails and scenic views
- Amenities:
- Running water and sinks
- Flush toilets
- Picnic tables
- Fire rings
- Food lockers
Reservation and Availability
- Reservation System: First-come, first-served only
- Season: Generally late May to early October (weather dependent)
- 2024 Season: Typically mid-July to mid-September
Pricing
- $10 for 2 adults
- $3 for each additional person
What Regulations Should Car Campers Be Aware Of?
Fire Restrictions
- Campfires allowed only in designated fire rings
- Firewood available for purchase at Mazama Store
Wildlife Precautions
- Store all food in provided lockers or vehicles with windows tightly closed
- Black bears present but rarely seen
Group Size and Permits
- No specific group size limits mentioned for car camping
- Follow all posted rules and regulations
- Backcountry camping requires a separate permit
What Amenities Are Available for Car Campers?
Water Sources
Both Mazama Village and Lost Creek Campgrounds provide:
– Running water
– Sinks for washing
Waste Management
- Dump station available at Mazama Village Campground
Parking Specifications
- Mazama Village: Pull-through sites for RVs up to 50 feet
Accessibility
- Mazama Village: Four accessible campsites for individuals with disabilities
How Can I Make the Most of My Car Camping Experience at Crater Lake?
- Plan Ahead:
- Make reservations for Mazama Village if possible, especially during peak season
-
Arrive early for first-come, first-served sites at Lost Creek
-
Pack Appropriately:
- Bring warm clothing, even in summer, as temperatures can drop at night
-
Include bear-proof containers for food storage
-
Explore the Area:
- Take advantage of proximity to hiking trails and scenic drives
-
Visit the Crater Lake rim for stunning views
-
Respect the Environment:
- Practice Leave No Trace principles
-
Use designated fire rings and properly extinguish fires
-
Stay Informed:
- Check with park rangers for current conditions and any fire restrictions
- Be aware of wildlife in the area and follow proper safety protocols
What Are Some Nearby Attractions for Car Campers?
- Crater Lake Rim Drive: 33-mile scenic route around the lake
- Boat Tours: Available from Cleetwood Cove (when operating)
- Hiking Trails:
- Cleetwood Cove Trail
- Watchman Peak Trail
- Garfield Peak Trail
- Wizard Island: Accessible by boat tour (seasonal)
- Pinnacles Overlook: Unique volcanic formations
- Annie Creek Canyon Trail: Near Mazama Village
By choosing to car camp at Crater Lake, you’re setting yourself up for an unforgettable experience in one of America’s most stunning national parks. Whether you opt for the amenity-rich Mazama Village or the more rustic Lost Creek Campground, you’ll have a perfect base to explore the natural wonders of Crater Lake and its surrounding areas.
References:
1. Crater Lake Institute – Services – Campgrounds in Crater Lake National Park
2. All Bend Oregon – Crater Lake National Park Campgrounds, Camping
3. Explore Crater Lake – Mazama Campground – Crater Lake Lodge