How much does camping cost at Crescent Lake Guard Station?

Camping fees at Crescent Lake Guard Station range from $120/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Crescent Lake Guard Station first-come first-served or reservation?

Crescent Lake Guard Station accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Crescent Lake Guard Station before I book?

Yes! Crescent Lake Guard Station has 5 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 Crescent Lake Guard Station?

Crescent Lake Guard Station is open May 22 to September 29. 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 Crescent Lake Guard Station?

Yes, Crescent Lake Guard Station has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

How many campsites does Crescent Lake Guard Station have?

Crescent Lake Guard Station has 1 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Crescent Lake Guard Station?

Yes, pets are allowed at Crescent Lake Guard Station. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Crescent Lake Guard Station?

Crescent Lake Guard Station offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Crescent Lake Guard Station

Q: Can I have a campfire at Crescent Lake Guard Station?

Fire policies at Crescent Lake Guard Station: Don't Move Firewood: Please protect Pacific Northwest forests by preventing the spread of invasive species. Firewood can carry insects and diseases that can threaten the health of our western forests. You can make a difference by obtaining and burning your firewood near your camping destination. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.11

104 reviews

PO Box 208, Crescent, OR 97733, USA

Top 18% in ORSummer

Scenic ViewsSwimmingSummer Destination

Featured in:Boating Camping Oregon

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

4,918 ft

Price

$120/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open May 26, 2025 to...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on Crescent Ranger District, Deschutes National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

4,918 ft

Price

$120/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open May 26, 2025 to...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on Crescent Ranger District, Deschutes National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Crescent Lake Guard Station

$120.00 - $120.00 / night

Campsite Fees

CABIN ELECTRIC: $120.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No paid fee categories listed.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

(541) 433-3200 8:00 A.M. TO 4:30 P.M. PST MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY- FEDERAL OFFICES ARE CLOSSED WEEKENDS AND HOLIDAYS. PLAN ACCORDINGLY.rgentry@fs.fed.us

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

PO Box 208, Crescent, OR 97733, USA

Crescent Lake Guard Station

PO Box 208, Crescent, OR 97733, USA

Nearby places

Crescent (12.2 miles, ~20 minutes), Klamath Falls (~70 miles, ~90 minutes), Bend (~75 miles, ~90 minutes)

Driving directionsFrom Crescent, OR: Travel 12.2 miles west on County Road 61/Crescent Cut-off Road, then 3.5 miles north on Highway 58, then 2.2 miles west on Forest Road 60/OR-429 S. Once you have reached the Sno-Park, stay straight and follow signs to the Resort on Forest Road 6005 (1,000 ft). Turn right on Forest Road 6005-100, then left on Forest Road 6005-105. The Guard Station is located on the right side of the road towards the lake.

Weather at Crescent Lake Guard Station

Current alerts(17)

Check-in time is 4:00 p.m. and the check-out time is 11:00 a.m.
Clean counter tops, stove/oven, and sink (cleaning supplies under kitchen sink)
Cleaning supplies are provided and are located either under the sink or next to the refrigerator
Click here for more information about Deschutes National Forest.

Best Time to Camp at Crescent Lake Guard Station

Best season: summer. Summer offers the warmest, most reliable weather for Crescent Lake’s lake-centered activities — expect daytime highs around 65–80°F and cool nights in the mid-30s to mid-40s. This is when swimming, boating, fishing, shoreline hiking, and late-night stargazing are at their peak, and the Guard Station is open and fully accessible (late May–late September). Expect the busiest conditions in mid-July–August, so book early; be aware that wildfire smoke or temporary fire restrictions can occasionally影响 Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: October, November, December, January

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 18% in OR

Open late May–Sept; summer best for swimming, boating, fishing; comfortable daytime temps.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 22 to September 29. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open May 26, 2025 to September 29, 2025 (reservable season).

About Crescent Lake Guard Station

Crescent Lake Guard Station sits in mid-elevation forest within Deschutes National Forest, operated by the Crescent Ranger District near the town of Crescent. This small, cabin-focused property offers lake access for swimming, boating, and fishing during the summer season. Guests appreciate the peaceful setting and outdoor activities, though some note wildlife noise inside cabin walls and dusty summer conditions.

The Crescent Lake Guard Station is a unique lodging option within the Deschutes National Forest, offering a rustic yet comfortable cabin experience. No tent or RV sites are available, as the facility is specifically a cabin rental.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the warmest, most reliable weather for Crescent Lake’s lake-centered activities — expect daytime highs around 65–80°F and cool nights in the mid-30s to mid-40s. This is when swimming, boating, fishing, shoreline hiking, and late-night stargazing are at their peak, and the Guard Station is open and fully accessible (late May–late September). Expect the busiest conditions in mid-July–August, so book early; be aware that wildfire smoke or temporary fire restrictions can occasionally影响 Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: October, November, December, January

Elevation4918 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe cabin overlooks Crescent Lake, a glacial basin at 4,918 feet elevation formed by ancient ice flows and a natural moraine dam. Ponderosa pines surround the area. The lake's blue-green water shifts from turquoise to emerald depending on the light. Beaches are sandy but rocky in places. Reviews consistently recommend water shoes. The setting feels isolated despite being close to Crescent Lake Lodge. Expect dust in summer and yellowjackets near wet shoreline areas.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe Guard Station offers a fully equipped cabin with a full kitchen, a furnished living room, and a private bathroom. It is described as a rustic yet comfortable lodging option. One user states, 'Great time, nice rustic cabin. Bring your own coffee pot, pot holders, and toaster.'

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum stay allowed is 14 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum occupancy is 4 people per reservation.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly mentioned. The description does state that lake access involves a 'VERY steep trail several hundred yards down,' which may present challenges for individuals with mobility difficulties.

Site SizeThe Guard Station is a standalone cabin of approximately 670 square feet.

PrivacyThe cabin is situated in an open area atop a hill, offering privacy and scenic views of Crescent Lake. It is described as feeling 'isolated' despite being close to Crescent Lake Lodge.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesThe cabin is suitable for families and small groups due to its amenities like a full kitchen, flush toilets, and comfortable furniture. Bring water shoes for beach activities.

Need help booking Crescent Lake Guard Station?

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Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

The Crescent Lake Guard Station provides a unique camping experience with a mix of rustic charm and modern amenities. The cabin, built in the 1930s, includes a full kitchen with a refrigerator, stove, and sink, as well as a furnished living room with a fold-out couch and gas wood stove. The bedroom features a full bed, and the restroom includes a clawfoot tub, toilet, and pedestal sink. Outdoor amenities include a picnic table, fire grill, and horseshoe pit. Additional provided items include cleaning supplies, cooking utensils, and basic furnishings. However, guests are required to bring their own linens, sleeping bags, dish soap, garbage bags, and toiletries. According to a user review, 'This cabin has electric lights, heaters, hot running water, a stove, a refrigerator, and the smallest bathtub I have ever seen.'

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Lodging and accommodations

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

The Crescent Lake Guard Station offers a variety of activities due to its location near Crescent Lake and other scenic attractions. Popular activities include boating, fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing, and swimming. The nearby Crescent Lake Resort provides opportunities for boat rentals and access to additional recreational amenities. User reviews highlight activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and exploring the lake's clear waters: 'The ability to kayak, paddle board, water ski or just swim and explore the beautiful water is amazing.'

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

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.

Fire PolicyDon't Move Firewood: Please protect Pacific Northwest forests by preventing the spread of invasive species. Firewood can carry insects and diseases that can threaten the health of our western forests. You can make a difference by obtaining and burning your firewood near your camping destination. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.

Trash & RecyclingGuests are required to pack out all food and garbage to prevent wildlife from being attracted to the area. There are no garbage cans in the restroom or nearby, according to a user review: 'The campground is very dusty, and there are no garbage cans in the restroom or nearby.'

Trip Planning Tools

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

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.1

104 reviews

Satisfactory

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

The Crescent Lake Guard Station is widely praised for its serene location, scenic views, and well-maintained facilities. Guests appreciate the cabin's amenities and the variety of activities available in the area, although some reviews note issues such as critter noise and maintenance concerns.

Review Summaries

Based on 104 reviews

What Campers Love

Peaceful setting, proximity to the lake, outdoor activities, variety of cabin amenities.

Based on 104 reviews

Common Concerns

Critters in the walls, steep access to the lake, lack of maintenance, and limited communication about fire bans or water availability.

Based on 104 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

The Guard Station is often described as 'rustic yet comfortable,' with a few critiques about critter noise and steep lake access.

Based on 104 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring water shoes for rocky beaches, bug spray for mosquitoes, and additional cooking supplies not provided in the cabin, such as a coffee pot and toaster.

Based on 104 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer months are popular for water activities and the clear lake views, while users mention mosquito issues during certain weeks. Critters and maintenance concerns are more prevalent in off-peak...

Based on 104 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Peaceful, relaxing, beautiful.' 2. 'This cabin has electric lights, heaters, hot running water, a stove, a refrigerator, and the smallest bathtub I have ever seen.' 3. 'The ability to kayak,...

Based on 104 reviews

Accessibility Features

Limited mentions of accessibility suggest that the steep trail to the lake and the need for personal transportation to reach nearby attractions could present challenges.

Based on 104 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed outside only, and some reviews note the need for caution on rocky beaches to avoid injuries.

Based on 104 reviews

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4.0

(241)

Crescent Lake Campground

Deschutes National Forest

Crescent Lake Campground sits at 4,869 feet in the Deschutes National Forest, offering direct access to one of central Oregon's clearest alpine lakes. This large campground provides tent sites, RV spots, and rental cabins spread across a forested shoreline near the town of Crescent. Visitors spend their days kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and swimming in the lake, with hiking and biking trails radiating into the surrounding forest.