Crater Lake
4.2112 reviewsLassen National Forest, California
Crater Lake
$5.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
Overnight use fee is $10 per single site per night. A 50% discount applies to single campsites for Interagency Senior/Access Pass holders, reducing the cost to $5 per night. Payment by cash or check only.
About this campground
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.
Historical SignificanceWhile the documented history of this specific campground remains unrecorded, the surrounding landscape whispers stories of ancient volcanic activity and centuries of natural evolution that have shaped this remarkable wilderness retreat.
Weather and SeasonsThe 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.
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 SceneryThis enchanting campground showcases nature's artistry at every turn. Towering Ponderosa and Lodgepole pines create a natural cathedral overhead, while graceful aspens dance in the mountain breeze. The landscape tells its volcanic story through scattered scree fields of broken lava rock, adding dramatic texture to the forest floor. At the heart of it all, Crater Lake mirrors the sky in its tranquil blue waters, offering moments of profound serenity that visitors describe as nothing short of magical.
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.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWheelchair-friendly facilities are not available as stated explicitly.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as small and compact, but adequate for tents or small setups.
Sites 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 CampsitesChoose 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 highly recommended; quieter and away from lake social activity.
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 are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSingle loop configuration near the lake. "Campsites are small and compact but separation between sites provides good privacy."
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 15 through December 31; remains open until snow makes the area impassable.
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.
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.
Fishing
Fishing is permitted, and the lake is stocked with rainbow trout. A user review noted that 1,600 trout were stocked on June 29, 2022.Boating
Non-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
The campground is not maintained during winter months, making activities like snowshoeing or skiing unlikely.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing, float tubing, and paddleboarding are supported.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires permitted within designated fire rings. Gas motors prohibited on the lake.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM - 8 AM
Hazards
General hazardsUsers 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 forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 29%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 10.1 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Eagle Lake Ranger District (530)257-4188 for ranger services; hospital and police station details not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune to October, aligning with operational hours for summer use.
Trash and recyclingTrash management has been mentioned as a concern, with reports of full trash cans and bags of trash left around the campground.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly next to Crater Lake, which is 5 acres in size. Primitive boat ramp available.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include yellow jacket wasps, trash cans overflowing, and lack of toilet paper. The gravel road to reach the campground can be challenging due to washboarding.
HostRangers patrol the area as noted in user reviews, but no specific host information provided.
Campground Map
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.
Camper Reviews
4.2
12 reviews
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 12 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 12 reviewsShow more
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 12 reviewsShow more
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 12 reviewsShow more
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 12 reviewsCamper 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 12 reviewsShow more
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 12 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific accessibility reviews from users are provided.
Based on 12 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific pet-related reviews from users are available.
Based on 12 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025