One Day at Crater Lake National Park

A SHORT VISIT TO CRATER LAKE NATIONAL PARK

We’re suckers for superlatives, so when I read that Crater Lake was America’s deepest lake, we knew we had to go.  This diverse National Park did not disappoint.

We were only at Crate Lake NP for 1.5 days, but we hiked through the forest, swam in the lake, and were able to completely unwind and disconnect.

Camping at Crater Lake:

We booked a reservation months in advance through the National Park Service and stayed at Mazama Village Campground for $22 a night.  Each campsite came with a fire pit, picnic table, and bear locker and bathrooms nearby. There is a camp store with a great variety of food and goodies and there were bathrooms with flush toilets. The only showers are available at the store and they require quarters, but they were hot and convenient. It was also fun to see the PCT thru-hikers drinking coffee outside at the picnic tables before they got back to the trail.

After checking out the lake from the rim, we decided to hike down at the Cleetwood Cove area.  

There is parking nearby and after a mile of zig zags down the mountain, you will be greeted with a crew of people- some heading out for a boat tour to Wizard Island, while others are laying on the rocks, and for the brave few, jumping into the water.   

We sat on the rocks, looking at the chipmunks, and one of us got in the water for a quick dip.  The other one of us stayed on the shore and was shown up by a senior citizen who was doing laps in the lake.  All in all, it was a lovely hour or two out of our short visit. 

Crater Lake is only accessible between June 15 and September 15 and the summer water temps are usually between 50°F (10°C) and 60°F (16°C).

After visiting the lake, we had a nice and easy 1-mile hike to Plaikni Falls.  This is suitable for individuals of all ages and skill levels. The trail is smooth and straightforward.

For our final exploration at Crater Lake, we explored the Pinnacles.  According to the Crater Lake Institute, these fossil fumaroles were formed under sheets of volcanic pumice that preceded Mount Mazama’s collapse.  This sandy, ashen area of the park offers an unexpected contrast to the green of the woods and blue of the lake (and this photo just does not do the area justice).

Crater Lake National Park Visit

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