How much does camping cost at Crater Lake?

Camping fees at Crater Lake range from $5-$10/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

Can I see photos of campsites at Crater Lake before I book?

Yes! Crater Lake has 1 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Crater Lake?

Crater Lake is open June to October, aligning with operational hours for summer use.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Crater Lake?

Crater Lake does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Crater Lake?

Fire policies at Crater Lake: Campfires permitted within designated fire rings. Gas motors prohibited on the lake.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Crater Lake have?

Crater Lake has 17 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Crater Lake?

Pets are not allowed at Crater Lake. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Crater Lake?

Crater Lake offers: Restrooms, Potable Water. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Crater Lake?

Popular activities at Crater Lake include Fishing, Boating. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Crater Lake

Q: Is Crater Lake first-come first-served or reservation?

Crater Lake operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Sites are not reservable, and walk-up availability applies. "Plenty of spots despite quite a few campers," according to user reviews.

4.00

37 reviews

Lassen National Forest, California

Top 11% in CAFall

Summer Destination

Featured in:Boating Camping California Tent Camping California

Quick Facts

6,900 ft

Price

$5 - $10/night

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

17 campsites

Season

Open May 15 through ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

6,900 ft

Price

$5 - $10/night

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

17 campsites

Season

Open May 15 through ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Crater Lake

$5.00 - $10.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Overnight use fee is $10 per single site per night. A 50% discount applies to single campsites for Interagency Senior/Access Pass holders, reducing...

Standard Site Fee$10.00

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USFS

Provider

530-257-4188

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

Lassen National Forest, California

Crater Lake

Lassen National Forest, California

Nearby places

Susanville (approximately 33 miles, 40 minutes drive)

Nearby supplies

Supplies can likely be procured in Susanville, CA, which is the nearest city (33 miles away). Exact stores and services not detailed.

Driving directionsFrom Susanville, CA, take State Rt. 36 west 4.9 miles to State Rt. 44. Turn right onto Rt. 44 and go 22.3 miles to campground sign. Turn right after sign onto Forest Rt. 32N08 (gravel) and go 6.6 miles to campground.

Accessible via gravel road for 6.6 miles from Highway 44; motor homes and large trailers not recommended due to rough and steep terrain. "It's a little washboarded, but no issues at all," according to a user review.

Weather at Crater Lake

Current alert: No specific alerts currently active, but users have reported trash issues and lack of toilet paper in vault toilets.

Best Time to Camp at Crater Lake

Fall delivers the sweet spot: daytime highs between 50-65°F, crisp nights in the 20s-30s, thinner crowds, and aspens peaking from mid-September into early October. Fishing and canoeing conditions stay excellent, and fire risk drops compared to summer. Summer evenings at this elevation require warm layers even in August. Snow closes the campground in winter. Hunters may be present during some fall weeks.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 11% in CA

Fall is the 'sweet spot' with aspens peaking mid‑Sept to early Oct, cooler days and thinner crowds.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: June to October, aligning with operational hours for summer use.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open May 15 through December 31; remains open until snow makes the area impassable.

About Crater Lake

Crater Lake Campground sits at 6,900 feet in Lassen National Forest near Susanville, offering 17 tent and primitive sites along clear, motorboat-free water. Fees run $5-10 per night. The campground features vault toilets, potable water from hand pumps, fire rings, and picnic tables. Aspens mix with Ponderosa and Lodgepole pines, creating natural privacy between sites and a standout fall color show.

Crater Lake Campground offers primitive camping with sites suitable for tents and a mix of tent and combined sites. RV camping is not recommended due to the rough and steep road leading to the campground.

Weather and SeasonsFall delivers the sweet spot: daytime highs between 50-65°F, crisp nights in the 20s-30s, thinner crowds, and aspens peaking from mid-September into early October. Fishing and canoeing conditions stay excellent, and fire risk drops compared to summer. Summer evenings at this elevation require warm layers even in August. Snow closes the campground in winter. Hunters may be present during some fall weeks.

ElevationPerched at an impressive 6,900 feet above sea level, this mountain campground offers the crisp, clean air and cooler temperatures that provide welcome relief from summer heat. The elevation creates perfect conditions for stargazing and delivers sweeping vistas that stretch across the forested landscape, reminding visitors why mountain camping holds such timeless appeal.

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies volcanic terrain marked by scree fields and broken lava rock scattered through the forest floor. Ponderosa and Lodgepole pines grow alongside aspens in a botanical crossroads typical of Lassen's diverse ecosystems. Crater Lake itself holds clear, calm water that reviewers consistently call scenic and serene. The volcanic geology is visible but unobtrusive. Mid-September through early October, the aspens turn gold and amber.

Geological RegionSet within the diverse ecosystems of Lassen National Forest, this 6,900-foot sanctuary showcases the region's volcanic heritage through its distinctive scree fields and broken lava rock formations. The convergence of different forest types creates a unique botanical crossroads where aspens mingle with Ponderosa and Lodgepole pines, each species contributing to the area's remarkable biodiversity and visual splendor.

Scenic ViewsMixed views depending on campsite location. Sites near the lake offer social interaction, while sites at the top (#1-5, #11-15) are quieter with fewer lake views. "Sites by the lake are better suited for more social campers."

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging accommodations exist at Crater Lake Campground.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are explicitly mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

1PM

Check-out

12 PM

Stay Limit

14 nights maximum per stay.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Information not detailed for guest limits.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutA single loop runs near the lake. Sites are small and compact but adequate for tents or minimal setups. Aspens, Ponderosa, and Lodgepole pines provide separation and privacy between most sites.

Reservation PlatformsNo reservation allowed; walk-up only.

Walk-in AvailabilitySites are not reservable, and walk-up availability applies. "Plenty of spots despite quite a few campers," according to user reviews.

Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy not detailed.

AccessibilityWheelchair-friendly facilities are not available as stated explicitly.

Site SizeCampsites are described as small and compact, but adequate for tents or small setups.

PrivacyCampsites are largely private due to separation provided by Aspen, Ponderosa, and Lodgepole pines, with some areas offering more seclusion (sites #1-5, #11-15). Sites near the lake are better suited for social campers.

Total Campsites17 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites near the top (#1-5, #11-15) for quieter stays and privacy. Sites close to the lake are more social but lack privacy.

Best CampsitesSites 12 and 13 sit farther from the lake and away from social activity. Sites 1-5 and 11-15 offer more seclusion thanks to pine and aspen screening. Sites near the lake work better if you prefer proximity to other campers.

Amenities available

Crater Lake Campground offers minimal yet essential amenities for campers. Each of the 17 sites comes equipped with a fire ring and picnic table. Potable water is provided via a hand-pumped water spigot, and vault toilets are available for use. No gas motors are permitted on the lake, preserving the tranquil atmosphere. The campground is described as "clean" by users, with restrooms being considered decent despite occasional shortages of toilet paper. Trash management has been mentioned as a concern in one user review.

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

Crater Lake Campground caters to outdoor enthusiasts with activities such as fishing, non-motorized boating, and enjoying fall foliage. Fly fishing, canoeing, and float tubing are popular among visitors. Swimming is not permitted in the lake.

Fishing

Boating

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsUsers report yellow jacket wasps during summer, particularly around the muddy lake banks. "Thousands of wasps everywhere...Wish they would do some sort of wasp control."

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are unavailable. Vault toilets are the sole option, described as "pit toilets" and "pretty clean" in user reviews, but one review reported a lack of toilet paper.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Fire PolicyCampfires permitted within designated fire rings. Gas motors prohibited on the lake.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10 PM - 8 AM

Emergency ServicesEagle Lake Ranger District (530)257-4188 for ranger services; hospital and police station details not provided.

Trash & RecyclingTrash management has been mentioned as a concern, with reports of full trash cans and bags of trash left around the campground.

Water FeaturesLocated directly next to Crater Lake, which is 5 acres in size. Primitive boat ramp available.

Camp HostRangers patrol the area as noted in user reviews, but no specific host information provided.

Cell CoverageNo explicit information about cell phone service quality or provider coverage is provided.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.0

37 reviews

Satisfactory

Crater Lake is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews indicate a scenic and serene camping experience at Crater Lake Campground, with highlights including the clear water, peaceful environment, and fishing opportunities. Negative aspects include maintenance issues and insect nuisances such as yellow jacket wasps.

Review Summaries

Based on 37 reviews

What Campers Love

Users frequently praise the campground's cleanliness, scenic surroundings, and fishing opportunities. One user described it as a "gem," while another highlighted the "beautiful and serene"...

Based on 37 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include the washboard gravel road leading to the campground, full trash cans, and insect issues, particularly yellow jacket wasps. Some users also reported shortages of toilet paper and...

Based on 37 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites near the top (#1-5, #11-15) are noted for their quietness and privacy. Sites closer to the lake are more social and offer better views.

Based on 37 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers suggest bringing warm clothing even during summer months due to the high elevation. Canoes are recommended for exploring the lake, and fishing gear is essential for enthusiasts. Users also...

Based on 37 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the busiest season, with users noting increased insect activity and warmer weather. Fall is recommended for its colorful foliage and tranquility.

Based on 37 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "Clean place to camp, they have a couple bathrooms throughout the loop." 2. "Nice place to camp off the beaten path, with a nice picturesque lake." 3. "This place was honestly a GEM. If it weren't...

Based on 37 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

Fly fishers and canoeists who can arrive mid-week in fall get the best of it: stocked rainbow trout, calm motorboat-free water, and aspen color peaking late September into early October. Sites #1-5 and #11-15 offer the most seclusion.

Skip if

Summer visitors should know yellow jackets swarm the muddy lake banks heavily enough that multiple reviewers flagged it as a serious nuisance. Add an unpaved washboard access road, no showers, and supplies 33 miles out in Susanville.

Nearby Campgrounds

4.5

(6)

Bogard Campground

Bogard Campground sits in mid-elevation Lassen National Forest, offering free tent and RV sites with vault toilets and fire rings. This very small campground draws visitors seeking quiet creekside relaxation and trailhead access under a canopy of aspen and pine. Summer is the most reliable season, with warm days and cool nights ideal for hiking and exploring nearby meadows.

Crater Lake

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Plan a trip to Crater Lake

Campground Map

Weather at Crater Lake

Best Time to Camp at Crater Lake

Planning Tips

About Crater Lake

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Amenities available

Activities you can enjoy

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews

Go if

Skip if

Overview

About the campground

Seasons & access

Facilities

Water activities

RV information

Directions

Plan a trip to Crater Lake

Best Time to Camp at Crater Lake

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Amenities available

Activities you can enjoy

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews