Crater Lake

Overview

Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States, known for its stunning blue waters and breathtaking views. It is a major tourist attraction within Crater Lake National Park.

Formed in the caldera of the collapsed volcano Mount Mazama, Crater Lake is renowned for its natural beauty and scientific importance.

Natural Wonder Outdoor Recreation

Location

Address

Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

Neighborhood: Crater Lake

Coordinates

42.942800, -122.116100

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM

tuesday 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM

wednesday 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM

thursday 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM

friday 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM

saturday 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM

sunday 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$15 (per person)

Children

Free (under 15)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

June to September

Best Time of Day

Early morning

Fewer crowds and better visibility

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

4-5 hours

Full Experience

1-2 days

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild to cool

• Wildflowers
• Waterfalls

summer

Warm to hot

• Clear skies
• Full access to trails

autumn

Cool

• Fall foliage
• Clear air

winter

Cold and snowy

• Snowshoeing
• Cross-country skiing

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Check road conditions
Reserve accommodations early
Bring layers for changing weather

What to Bring

essential

Water Hiking shoes Map

seasonal

Warm clothing Snow gear

not allowed

Drones Pets on trails

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate to high for some trails

• Altitude sickness possible
• Stay hydrated

Medical facilities: First aid available at visitor centers

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Credit cards

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $30 (vehicle)

parking $20

food $10-$20

souvenirs $15-$50

Dress Code

Casual, comfortable, Layers, sturdy footwear, Hiking boots or shoes, Inappropriate clothing for hiking

Booking Tips

• 3-6 months for peak season
• National Park Service website
• 24 hours for tours
• Online tickets for popular tours

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Crater Lake NPS

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Park information, Event schedule

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor centers, Rim Village

Charging Stations: Visitor centers

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport

Distance: 90 miles

Travel Time: 2 hours

rental_car

$50-$100/day 2 hours

shuttle

$80 2.5 hours

From City Center

Distance: 25 miles (Klamath Falls)

car

$10-$20 (gas) 40 minutes

bus

$5 1 hour

taxi

$60 35 minutes

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Unique natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere

Historical Significance: Formed by a volcanic eruption about 7,700 years ago

Insider Tips

Visit early for parking spots
Ranger-led programs are highly informative

Local Recommendations

• Visit the nearby town of Klamath Falls
• Try local huckleberry products

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello

thank_you Thank you

where_is Where is

how_much How much

beautiful Beautiful

ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: English, Spanish

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Rim Village

Best Time: Sunrise

Tips: Capture the lake's reflection

Result: Stunning sunrise shots

#CraterLake #NationalPark

Photography Rules

allowed areas Outdoor areas, Viewpoints

prohibited areas Inside buildings

flash photography Allowed in outdoor areas

commercial photography Permit required

drone policy Prohibited without permit

tripod policy Allowed in designated areas

selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Lava Beds National Monument

Distance: 50 miles

Walking: N/A

Type: Historical Site

Upper Klamath Lake

Distance: 20 miles