Crater Lake

Star4.21
37 reviews
Lassen National Forest, California
Summer Destination

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

Opens Eagle Lake Ranger District site

Official Website
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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...
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Standard Site Fee$10.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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USFS
Provider
530-257-4188
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What Campers Say

4.21

Satisfactory

Based on 37 reviews

33 Google reviews

Most mentioned

clean

"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."

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Campground Map

Lassen National Forest, California

Crater Lake

Lassen National Forest, California

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.
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.

Best Time to Camp at Crater Lake

The mountain climate here delivers delightful surprises throughout the camping season. Even in the height of August, evening temperatures can dip dramatically, making warm layers essential for comfortable nights around the campfire. This high-altitude haven experiences significant seasonal changes, with winter snows creating an impenetrable white blanket that closes access until spring's thaw reveals the landscape once more.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.5 / 5

June–Oct busiest; pleasant days but warmer evenings and increased insect activity.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.5 / 5
Top 5% in CA

Fall recommended for colorful foliage and greater tranquility.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Opens May 15; spring conditions variable with cool temps and possible snowpack.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.0 / 5

Season limited by snow; campground open through Dec 31 only until snow makes area impassable.

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

About Crater Lake

Nestled alongside the pristine waters of Crater Lake, this intimate 17-site campground offers an authentic wilderness experience in the heart of nature. Each thoughtfully spaced campsite comes equipped with picnic tables and fire rings, perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. Modern vault toilets and hand-pumped fresh water ensure comfort without compromising the natural setting. Anglers will discover exceptional fly fishing opportunities, while the calm waters beckon canoeists and float tubers to explore. As autumn arrives, the surrounding aspen groves transform into a breathtaking tapestry of gold and amber, creating an unforgettable backdrop for your outdoor adventures.
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.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
1PM
Check-out
12 PM
Stay Limit
14 nights maximum per stay.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

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.
FishingFishing is permitted, and the lake is stocked with rainbow trout. A user review noted that 1,600 trout were stocked on June 29, 2022.
BoatingNon-motorized boating such as canoeing and float tubing is popular. Gas motors are prohibited to maintain the tranquility of the lake. A primitive boat ramp is available.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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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."
Active AlertsNo specific alerts currently active, but users have reported trash issues and lack of toilet paper in vault toilets.

Weather at Crater Lake

Reviews

4.2
37 reviews
Satisfactory
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"...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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

Accessibility Features

No specific accessibility reviews from users are provided.
Based on 37 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No specific pet-related reviews from users are available.
Based on 37 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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