Crater Lake National Park, a jewel of the Cascade Range, stuns visitors with its deep blue waters and dramatic volcanic caldera. But with limited lodging options within the park itself, choosing the right place to stay near Crater Lake becomes an important part of your trip planning.
This guide explores a variety of options, from historic lodges and cozy cabins to idyllic campgrounds and charming Airbnbs in nearby towns. Save yourself some time and use this complete guide on where to stay on your visit to Crater Lake.
Crater Lake Lodging Inside the Park
Crater Lake Lodge
Embrace a classic park lodge experience at Crater Lake Lodge. Perched on the rim with breathtaking views, this historic property offers a variety of rooms, from dorm beds to spacious suites with fireplaces. This may be one of the best places to stay near Crater Lake( geographically speaking) but it is super hard to get a room!
Related Reads: Unforgettable Road Trip from SF to Crater Lake
Highlights
- Unparalleled views of the lake
- On-site restaurant with lake views
- Gift shop and interpretive programs
- Walking distance to Rim Village visitor center and trails
Pros
- Most convenient location for exploring the park
- Unique historic atmosphere
Cons
- Often books up months in advance, especially during peak season
- Limited amenities compared to modern hotels
- Not the most budget-friendly option
Price: Ranges from $80/night for dorm beds to over $300/night for suites depending on season.
Consider staying overnight at the park’s lodge to bask in the tranquility of the surroundings.
Mazama Village Campground
Distance to Crater Lake: 5-8 miles
For a rustic experience under the stars, Mazama Village Campground offers tent sites and RV hookups. With restrooms, showers, and an amphitheater, it provides basic amenities without sacrificing the natural setting.
Highlights
- Affordable way to experience the park
- Convenient location near Rim Village visitor center
- Fire rings and picnic tables at campsites
Pros
- Budget-friendly option
- Direct access to park trails and direct 8 mile hike to Crater Lake
- Has a village store
Cons
- Sites can fill up quickly, especially on weekends
- Limited privacy compared to other options
- No showers at some campsites
- Only one restroom
Price: Ranges from $20-$40/night depending on site type.
Crater Lake Lodging Outside the Park
Union Creek Campground
Distance to Crater Lake: 12 miles
Escape the crowds and enjoy a more secluded camping experience at Union Creek Campground. Nestled along a scenic creek, it offers campsites with picnic tables and fire rings. Union Creek isn’t the fanciest but it’s cozy and the Rogue River right there is super wild and cool with several trails running along it.
Highlights
- Beautiful forested setting
- Less crowded than Mazama Village Campground
- Good basecamp for exploring the wilderness around the park
Pros
- More privacy and peacefulness
- Generally easier to find campsites
Cons
- Further away from Rim Village
- Fewer amenities compared to Mazama Village
Price: Ranges from $15-$20/night depending on site type.
Union Creek Resort
Distance from Crater Lake: 12 mile
Nestled along the banks of the scenic Union Creek, Union Creek Resort offers a charming escape that blends historic ambience with modern comforts. Choose from a variety of lodging options to suit your needs:
Highlights
- Historic charm with log cabin accommodations
- Variety of cabin sizes to suit different needs
- Beautiful setting along Union Creek
- Across the street from Becky’s Restaurant which has some amazing pies
Pros
- More affordable option compared to in-park lodging
- More spacious accommodations than some hotel rooms
- Peaceful and scenic setting near the Rogue River National Forest
- Breakfast cafe, country story and ice cream all nearby
Cons
- Further drive to Crater Lake National Park compared to in-park options
- Limited amenities compared to full-service resorts
Price: Cabin prices vary depending on size and season, typically starting around $100/night.
Diamond Lake Resort
Distance to Crater Lake: 18 miles
I personally loved staying at Diamond Lake. It has just about every activity you can think of and it was a warm and comfortable stay for us. Diamond Lake is nice with cabins, a lake with boating and fishing, restaurant, bar, store, horseback riding during the summer, and it is about ten minutes from the Crater Lake Park entrance. Oh and pack lots of bug spray. I was getting eaten alive by mosquitos last year
Highlights
- Diverse range of lodging options
- Beautiful setting on Diamond Lake and views of Mt. Thielsen
- Amenities like boat rentals, swimming pool, and mini-golf
- Perfect for Stargazing at Night
- Bike, Swim, Rent Kayaks, Horseback Riding
- Watch the Sunset over the Lake
Pros
- Something for everyone, from budget campers to those seeking comfort
- Great location for exploring both Crater Lake and Diamond Lake
- Family-friendly atmosphere
Cons
- Further drive to Crater Lake than in-park options
- Can be crowded during peak season
Price: Varies depending on lodging type. Campground sites start around $30/night, cabins start around $100/night, and hotel rooms start around $150/night.
KLA-MO-YA Casino
Distance to Crater Lake: 25 miles
For a unique lodging option, consider staying near the Klamath Tribes Casino & Hotel at Chiloquin. The casino offers hotel rooms, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Highlights
- Convenient location with amenities like restaurants, and entertainment
- Often has good deals on rooms
- Interesting cultural experience
Pros
- Comfortable accommodations with amenities
- Can be a more affordable option
- Offers a different experience than traditional lodging
Cons
- Further drive to Crater Lake
- Not ideal for those seeking a secluded natural setting
- May not be suitable for families with young children
Chiloquin has GREAT fishing cabins you can stay in that would be much, much nicer than the casino. You’ll find them on sites like Airbnb and Vacasa.
Lake of the Woods Resort
Distance to Crater Lake: 40 miles
For a unique blend of rustic charm and modern amenities, check out Lake of the Woods Resort. This resort offers camping with stunning lake views, as well as cozy cabins with fireplaces and decks. It also gives Lake of the Ozark vibes. We did not stay here, but we did walk around the lake and it was the most peaceful place ever. Next time we go to Crater Lake, we will definitely be checking out Lake of the Woods as an accomodation.
Highlights
- Beautiful setting on the shores of Lake of the Woods
- Variety of lodging options, from campsites to cabins
- On-site restaurant, boat rentals, and other amenities
Pros
- Picturesque location with lake access
- Offers a balance of nature and comfort
- Good option for families
- Cabins, RV’s and Camping available
Cons
- Further drive to Crater Lake compared to in-park options
- Can be busier and pricier during peak season
Price: Camping sites start around $40/night, cabins start around $150/night
Convenient Nearby Towns to Stay at near Crater Lake
Ashland
Distance to Crater Lake: 92 miles
A charming city nestled in the Rogue Valley, Ashland is a great basecamp for exploring Crater Lake, about an hour’s drive away. Ashland boasts a vibrant arts scene, with its renowned Oregon Shakespeare Festival, and a variety of restaurants and shops. Look for Airbnbs in Ashland that offer easy access to downtown and hiking trails.
Highlights
- Vibrant arts and culture scene
- Beautiful setting
Pros
- More lodging options and variety compared to staying near the park
- Great restaurants and shops
- Interesting cultural experiences
Cons
- Longer drive to Crater Lake
- Can be more expensive, especially during peak season
Price: Airbnb prices in Ashland vary depending on size, location, and amenities. Expect to pay anywhere from $100-$500+ per night.
The Ashland Hills Hotel
For a luxurious escape after a day of exploring Crater Lake, consider The Ashland Hills Hotel. This boutique hotel boasts stunning views, elegant rooms with fireplaces and balconies, and an on-site spa. Perfect for those seeking a pampering getaway.
Medford
Distance to Crater Lake: 100 miles
A larger city south of Ashland, Medford offers a wider range of hotels and amenities. It’s a good option for those seeking a more urban environment while still being within driving distance of Crater Lake (approximately a 1.5-hour drive).
Highlights
- Diverse selection of restaurants and shops
- Broader range of hotel options compared to Ashland
- Convenient access to I-5 for exploring other parts of Oregon
Pros
- More affordable lodging options compared to Ashland
- More amenities for those seeking a city experience
Cons
- Further drive to Crater Lake
- Less scenic setting compared to Ashland
Price: Hotel rooms in Medford range from budget-friendly options under $100/night to more upscale properties for over $200/night.
Klamath Falls
Distance to Crater Lake: 80 miles
Klamath Falls, located east of Crater Lake (about a 45-minute drive), offers a variety of lodging options and a historic downtown area. It’s a good choice for those interested in exploring other natural wonders in the area, like Klamath Lake.
Highlights:
- Convenient location for exploring other natural attractions
- Historic downtown area with interesting architecture
- More affordable lodging options compared to Ashland
Pros:
- Central location for exploring southern Oregon
- Broader range of hotels and motels compared to smaller towns near the park
Cons:
- Further drive to Crater Lake National Park
- Less scenic setting compared to Ashland or Medford
Price: Hotel rooms in Klamath Falls range from budget-friendly options under $100/night to mid-range properties for around $150/night.
Resorts in Klamath Falls
- Running Y Resort (Distance to Crater Lake: 50 miles)
Escape to a sprawling ranch experience at Running Y Resort. This dude ranch offers a variety of lodging options, from cabins and lodge rooms to all-inclusive packages with meals and activities like horseback riding and fishing.
Highlights
- Authentic dude ranch experience
- Diverse lodging options
- On-site activities like horseback riding, fishing, and swimming
Pros
- Unique and memorable experience
- Great option for families or those seeking an active vacation
- Beautiful setting in the Klamath Basin
Cons
- Further drive to Crater Lake National Park
- Can be pricier than other options
Price: Prices vary depending on lodging type and package chosen. Expect to pay a premium for all-inclusive packages.
- Rocky Point Resort (Distance to Crater Lake: 30 miles)
Nestled on the shores of Upper Klamath Lake, Rocky Point Resort offers a variety of lodging options, from campsites and cabins to vacation rentals. Enjoy lakefront relaxation, water sports rentals, and on-site dining.
Highlights
- Beautiful setting on Upper Klamath Lake
- Wide range of lodging options
- Amenities like boat rentals, swimming pool, and mini-golf
- Beautiful restaurant on the lake
Pros
- Something for everyone, from budget campers to families seeking vacation rentals
- Offers a relaxing lakeside atmosphere
- Good option for exploring Upper Klamath Lake
Cons
- Further drive to Crater Lake National Park
- Can be crowded during peak season
Price: Varies depending on lodging type. Campground sites start around $30/night, cabins start around $100/night, and vacation rentals can range
Additional Tips
- Book your accommodations well in advance, especially during peak season.
- Check the wildfire smoke conditions before you book or go anywhere
- Consider combination options. For example, you could spend a few nights camping near the park and a few nights in a charming Ashland Airbnb.
- Pack for all weather conditions, as mountain weather can change quickly.
- Bring comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring the outdoors.
- Purchase a National Park Pass if you plan on visiting other National Parks during your trip.
- You can find some decent hotels in Prospect (35 miles) or Shady Cove (60 miles)
