Little Crater Lake

Star4.32
47 reviews
Little Crater Lake
$25.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard sites cost $25.00 per night during peak season (May 23 - September 21, 2025), with an additional $2 holiday fee. Utility hookups are not...
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Standard Site Fee$25.00
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
Total Campsite Fees$25.00

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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
503-630-5721clm@clm-services.com

About this campground

Tucked away in the enchanting Mt. Hood National Forest, Little Crater Lake Campground invites outdoor enthusiasts to discover a hidden gem where turquoise waters meet towering evergreens. This intimate campground serves as your gateway to two of Oregon's most captivating natural wonders: the mysterious Little Crater Lake with its impossibly blue waters, and the expansive Timothy Lake just a short journey away. Whether you're pitching a tent beneath ancient firs or settling your RV into a cozy spot surrounded by wetlands teeming with life, you'll find yourself immersed in the tranquil beauty of the Pacific Northwest wilderness.
The Little Crater Lake Campground accommodates a mix of tent camping and small RV camping. There are no group camping sites or cabins available.
Historical SignificanceJust a scenic drive away lies the Clackamas Lake Ranger Station Historic District, where weathered timber buildings from the early 1900s tell the story of America's conservation pioneers. These carefully preserved structures offer a fascinating glimpse into the early days of the Forest Service, when rangers on horseback patrolled these vast woodlands. Visitors can step back in time and discover how these dedicated guardians shaped the forest management practices that protect these lands today.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this mountain retreat into a paradise of mild temperatures and crystal-clear skies, drawing visitors to experience the forest at its most welcoming. While winter brings a blanket of snow and crisp mountain air that limits access, the warmer months from June through September offer perfect conditions for exploration. Morning mist gives way to sunny afternoons ideal for hiking, while cool evenings invite campfire gatherings under star-filled skies.
ElevationPerched at 3,300 feet above sea level, the campground offers a refreshing mountain experience where the air is crisp and pine-scented. At this elevation, you'll enjoy cooler temperatures that provide relief from summer heat, while morning visitors might spot deer grazing in nearby meadows or catch sight of elk moving through the forest shadows. The higher altitude creates an environment where wildlife thrives and alpine flowers paint the landscape with seasonal color.
Natural Features and SceneryA wonderland of towering evergreens creates a natural cathedral around your campsite, while nearby marshlands and wildflower meadows attract an abundance of wildlife from songbirds to black-tailed deer. The crown jewel of the area, Little Crater Lake, defies expectations with its otherworldly aquamarine waters fed by underground artesian springs. This geological marvel maintains a constant 34-degree temperature year-round, creating a natural looking glass so clear you can peer 45 feet to the bottom through its jewel-toned depths.
Geological RegionThe campground sits within a fascinating geological tapestry shaped by ancient volcanic forces and carved by time. At 3,300 feet elevation in Mt. Hood National Forest, the landscape tells a story written in volcanic rock formations and pristine marshlands. This unique ecosystem blends dense evergreen forests with wetland habitats, creating diverse microclimates where moss-draped trees stand sentinel over bubbling springs and hidden pools, all testament to the powerful natural forces that continue to shape this remarkable corner of the Cascade Range.
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Campsite details

AccessibilityThe campground has accessible vault toilets and a relatively flat trail leading to Little Crater Lake, making it accessible for elderly and small children.
Sites SizeVaried sizes, reportedly spacious. Some are better suited for smaller tents or hammocks due to roots and uneven surfaces. Site 5 is noted as unsuitable for large family tents.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. Some sites are well-separated, while others are close to neighboring sites. For instance, site 10 was described as 'a little close to the next site over and out in the open.'
Total Campsites14 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampsite 013 is noted for its spaciousness and proximity to trails. Campsite 010 offers direct access to Little Crater Lake and ample privacy.
Best CampsitesCampsites 013 and 010 are highly rated for their scenic location and quiet ambiance.

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit
Maximum 14 nights during a visit and within a rolling 30-day period.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutIncludes over a dozen single-family sites arranged in a wooded area. Sites vary in size, ground level, and shade availability.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 23 - September 21, 2025 for reservations.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityUser reviews indicate mixed experiences. Some sites may be available for first-come, first-served camping during off-peak times.
Cancellation PolicyVisitors can cancel reservations before the scheduled arrival date for a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations incur forfeiture of the first night’s use fee. No-show guests are charged $20 and forfeit the first night’s fee.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Campers at Little Crater Lake Campground have a range of outdoor activities to enjoy, including hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and exploring the nearby Little Crater Lake and Timothy Lake. The campground connects to the Pacific Crest Trail, providing access to extended hiking opportunities. Wildlife, such as deer, is commonly observed, and the surrounding area offers opportunities for birdwatching and huckleberry picking. However, swimming is not allowed in Little Crater Lake.
Hiking
The campground provides direct access to a short trail leading to Little Crater Lake and connects to the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail. Hikes to Timothy Lake and other scenic spots are popular. Reviews highlight the ease of the trails and their maintenance, although some sections of the access trail need repairs, as noted by a reviewer: 'The access trail is in need of some repairs. Some boards have broken through and large nails are sticking up in a couple places.'
Fishing
Fishing is allowed at Timothy Lake, which is about a 20-minute walk from the campground. Anglers can expect Kokanee salmon and a variety of stocked trout.
Wildlife viewing
Campers can enjoy observing local wildlife such as deer, as well as birds in the meadow surrounding the campground. A reviewer noted, 'Deer walked right through our camp at night, with tons of wildlife everywhere.'
Winter Activities
Access to the campground in the winter is limited, as noted by a reviewer: 'In the winter I've heard you can't get there by a regular car, so I guess it's good to check that before planning a trip.'
Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports at Timothy Lake are possible, but no specific mention is made of such activities in reviews or authoritative sources.
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Campground rules

  • Pets are not allowed
  • Fire restrictions may apply during dry conditions. Visitors are encouraged to use local firewood to prevent the spread of invasive species.

Hazards

General hazardsMosquitoes can be abundant, especially near marsh areas, as noted in user reviews. The uneven terrain and exposed roots in some campsites pose challenges.
Active alertsFire bans may be implemented during hot, dry conditions. Seasonal road access limitations due to snow are noted in user reviews.

Weather forecast

41
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Humidity: 71%

High humidity, may feel muggy

Wind: 2.2 mph

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Overcast

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Good to know

Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - September 21, 2025
Trash and recyclingThere are no trash or recycling facilities available on-site. Campers must haul out their own trash, as emphasized by a reviewer who stated, 'There are no trash cans on site so you’ll have to haul your trash out.'
Proximity to water featuresLittle Crater Lake is easily accessible via a short trail from the campground. Timothy Lake is approximately 20 minutes away by vehicle.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include poor road conditions, mosquito infestations, and unsanitary bathrooms. Several reviews highlighted loud and disrespectful neighboring campers. Vault toilets were reported as unclean.
HostUser reviews offer mixed opinions; while some highlight helpful hosts, others note the lack of ranger presence.

Campground Map

Driving directionsFrom Sandy, travel east on Highway 26 for approximately 40 miles to Skyline Road (Road 42). Turn right and travel south for 4 miles. Turn right on Forest Road 58 and travel 2 miles to the campground.
The road to the campground is challenging, with deep holes and uneven terrain as noted in user reviews. One review by Oleg Litvinov states, 'First of all, the road to the campground is bad, a lot of deep holes, so, just be prepared for this.' Seasonal access may be impacted by snow as mentioned in user reviews.

Camper Reviews

4.3
47 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Little Crater Lake is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews consistently praise the campground's natural beauty, including the crystal-clear waters of Little Crater Lake, its proximity to the Pacific Crest Trail, and its quiet, peaceful atmosphere. However, issues such as poorly maintained roads leading to the campground, mosquitoes, and occasional maintenance problems (e.g., vault toilets being dirty) have been noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 47 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers appreciate the scenic beauty of the area, the clear waters of Little Crater Lake, and the proximity to hiking trails like the Pacific Crest Trail. One reviewer called it 'the most peaceful...
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Based on 47 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include poor road conditions leading to the campground, mosquitoes, and maintenance issues such as vault toilets not being cleaned regularly or running out of toilet paper. Some...
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Based on 47 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Many reviewers recommend bringing plenty of water due to the difficulty of using the manual water pump. Others suggest bringing mosquito repellent and preparing for uneven ground. Campers also...
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Based on 47 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer months are popular due to the accessible trails and nearby lakes, but mosquitoes are a frequent issue. During winter, access to the campground may be restricted due to snow, and the area is...
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Based on 47 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The water in the lake is super clear and cold, not many lakes allow you to see the bottom.' 2. 'The road to the campground is bad, a lot of deep holes, so, just be prepared for this. But the...
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Based on 47 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 5: Not suitable for large family tents. Site 7: Perfect for families, close to the bathroom but not too close. Site 10: Spacious but close to neighboring sites, making it less private. Site 13:...
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Based on 47 reviews

Accessibility Features

The campground is described as accessible, with flat trails leading to Little Crater Lake. However, some trails and facilities may require maintenance or repairs.
Based on 47 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No specific reviews address pet-related policies or experiences.
Based on 47 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
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