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Crater Lake to Cape Perpetua Campground Oregon: A Scenic Journey

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The journey from Crater Lake to Cape Perpetua Campground in Oregon is a breathtaking adventure spanning approximately 210 miles. This scenic route takes travelers through diverse landscapes, from the deep blue waters of Crater Lake to the rugged Oregon coastline. The trip typically takes 4-5 hours, offering opportunities to explore charming towns, lush forests, and stunning coastal vistas along the way. This guide provides essential information for planning your trip, including key stops, hiking trails, campground reservations, and viewpoint details.

What is the Best Route from Crater Lake to Cape Perpetua Campground?

crater lake to cape perpetua campground oregon
Image ‘File:Crater Lake July 2024-1.jpg’ by Stephen Foiles, licensed under CC BY 2.0

The optimal route from Crater Lake to Cape Perpetua Campground involves several key segments:

  1. Crater Lake to Eugene: Take Highway 138 west from Crater Lake to Highway 97, then continue to Interstate 5.
  2. Eugene to Florence: From Eugene, follow Highway 126 west to Florence.
  3. Florence to Yachats: Take Highway 101 south from Florence to Yachats.
  4. Yachats to Cape Perpetua: From Yachats, take Cape Perpetua Highway (Highway 130) and turn left onto Cape Perpetua Road.

Key stops along this route include:

  • Eugene, Oregon: A major city for supplies and rest
  • Florence, Oregon: Known for coastal scenery and the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area
  • Yachats, Oregon: The closest town to Cape Perpetua Campground

What are the Must-See Hiking Trails at Crater Lake?

crater lake to cape perpetua campground oregon
Image ‘File:Day 181 – Crater Lake, Oregon (18695528363).jpg’ by Judy Gallagher, licensed under CC BY 2.0

Crater Lake offers several spectacular hiking trails:

  1. Cleetwood Cove Trail
  2. Length: 2.2 miles round trip
  3. Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
  4. Elevation Gain: 700 feet

  5. Notable Feature: The only trail leading to Crater Lake’s shore

  6. Garfield Peak Trail

  7. Length: 3.6 miles round trip
  8. Difficulty: Moderate
  9. Elevation Gain: 1,000 feet

  10. Notable Feature: Panoramic views of Crater Lake and Wizard Island

  11. Watchman Peak Trail

  12. Length: 1.6 miles round trip
  13. Difficulty: Moderate
  14. Elevation Gain: 400 feet

  15. Notable Feature: One of the highest accessible points in the park

  16. Rim Drive

  17. Length: 33 miles (can be hiked or driven)
  18. Difficulty: Easy to moderate
  19. Notable Feature: Scenic route around Crater Lake with numerous viewpoints

How to Reserve a Campsite at Crater Lake?

Reserving a campsite at Crater Lake involves the following process:

  1. Reservation Methods:
  2. Online: Visit recreation.gov

  3. Phone: Call (877) 444-6777

  4. Campground Options:

  5. Mazama Village: 214 sites (RV and tent)

  6. Lost Creek Campground: 16 primitive sites (first-come, first-served)

  7. Peak Season:

  8. Mid-July to mid-October (highest demand in August)

  9. Book well in advance for peak season

  10. Costs:

  11. Mazama Village: $36 to $40 per night

  12. Lost Creek Campground: $10 per night

  13. Cancellation Policy:

  14. Cancellations can be made through the reservation system
  15. Fees may apply depending on timing

What are the Key Features of Cape Perpetua Scenic Viewpoint?

Cape Perpetua Scenic Viewpoint offers several notable features:

  1. Accessibility:
  2. Accessible by car with nearby parking

  3. Saint Perpetua National Recreation Trail for hikers

  4. Parking:

  5. Available near Cape Perpetua Visitor Center and Devil’s Churn Day Use Area

  6. $5 per vehicle day-use fee (or use applicable passes)

  7. Viewpoint Highlights:

  8. Highest viewpoint on Oregon Coast accessible by car
  9. Panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and coastline
  10. Spouting Horn at Cook’s Chasm
  11. Thor’s Well

  12. Devil’s Churn

  13. Visitor Amenities:

  14. Cape Perpetua Visitor Center with information and restrooms
  15. Picnic areas

  16. Access to various hiking trails

  17. Programs:

  18. Check with the Visitor Center for scheduled events and ranger-led programs

What are the Best Times to Visit Crater Lake and Cape Perpetua?

The best times to visit these locations depend on your preferences:

Crater Lake:

  • Summer (July to September): Ideal for hiking and water activities
  • Winter (December to March): Perfect for snow activities, but limited access

Cape Perpetua:

  • Spring and Fall: Mild weather and fewer crowds
  • Summer: Warmest temperatures, but busiest season
  • Winter: Storm watching opportunities, but colder temperatures

How to Prepare for the Journey from Crater Lake to Cape Perpetua?

Preparation is key for this scenic journey:

  1. Vehicle Check:
  2. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition

  3. Check tire pressure and fluid levels

  4. Packing Essentials:

  5. Warm layers (temperatures can vary)
  6. Rain gear
  7. Hiking boots
  8. Snacks and water
  9. First aid kit

  10. Camera for capturing views

  11. Route Planning:

  12. Download offline maps
  13. Plan fuel stops (especially in remote areas)

  14. Research potential detours or road closures

  15. Accommodation:

  16. Book campsites or lodging in advance, especially during peak seasons

  17. National Park Pass:

  18. Consider purchasing if visiting multiple parks

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable journey from Crater Lake to Cape Perpetua Campground in Oregon, experiencing some of the state’s most stunning natural wonders along the way.

References:

  1. https://www.traversethepnw.com/post/the-insider-s-guide-to-camping-at-cape-perpetua
  2. https://www.lensofjen.org/visiting-cape-perpetua-on-the-oregon-coast/
  3. https://www.freshoffthegrid.com/7-wonders-of-oregon-road-trip/

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