Crater Lake National Park is accessible by car. The main entrances are via Highway 62. From the north, take Highway 97 to Highway 138, then Highway 230 to Highway 62. From the south, take Highway 97 to Highway 62. Portland and Seattle are common starting points for road trips, with overnight stops often recommended in Eugene or Portland.

The park is open year-round, but access is limited during winter months due to heavy snowfall. Many roads, including Rim Drive, close seasonally. Check the park's official website for current conditions and road closures.

Driving Rim Drive offers numerous viewpoints. For a closer experience, hike the Cleetwood Cove Trail to the lake's edge or take a boat tour to Wizard Island.

Yes, a day trip is possible, especially if you're coming from nearby towns like Medford. However, it's a long drive from major cities like Portland, so an overnight stay is recommended to fully enjoy the park.

During the summer season, a free shuttle service operates along Rim Drive, connecting various viewpoints and trailheads. This can be a convenient option to avoid parking hassles. Check the park's website for operating dates and routes.

There is an entrance fee per vehicle, valid for 7 days. You can purchase passes online or at the park entrance stations. Consider an America the Beautiful Pass if you plan to visit multiple national parks.

The park is generally open 24 hours a day, but visitor centers and facilities have specific operating hours, which vary by season. Rim Drive is typically open from late May/June through October, weather permitting.

Reservations are not typically required for park entry. However, popular activities like boat tours to Wizard Island and lodging within the park often require advance booking, especially during peak season.

The Cleetwood Cove Trail, the only access to the lake shore, is scheduled to close for renovations from 2026 through 2028, with an expected reopening in summer 2029. Plan your visit before the closure if you want to swim or take boat tours. +3

Yes, swimming is permitted only at the base of the Cleetwood Cove Trail. This is the only legal access point to the lake's shore. Remember, the water is very cold!

Must-see viewpoints include Rim Village, Discovery Point, Watchman Overlook, and Phantom Ship Overlook. Each offers a unique perspective of the lake and its surroundings.

Besides the steep Cleetwood Cove Trail, consider the Sun Notch Trail for views of Phantom Ship, and the Watchman Peak Trail for panoramic sunset views. The Discovery Point Trail is a relatively easy rim walk.

Yes, Crater Lake is family-friendly. Many viewpoints are easily accessible, and short, gentle trails like the Discovery Point Trail are suitable for children. Pack snacks and be mindful of the elevation.

The 'Old Man of the Lake' is a 450-year-old hemlock stump that has been floating upright in the lake for over a century. It's a unique natural phenomenon and a point of interest for visitors.

Yes, Mazama Campground is the primary campground within the park, offering tent and RV sites. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during the summer season.

Yes, the Crater Lake Lodge and The Cabins at Mazama Village offer dining options. Rim Village also has a cafe and gift shop with snacks. Options can be limited, so packing your own food is a good idea.

Crater Lake Lodge typically offers a fine dining experience with a focus on regional cuisine. Reservations are often recommended, especially for dinner. Check their website for current menus and hours.

Yes, several designated picnic areas are available throughout the park, offering scenic spots to enjoy a meal. These are great options for families and those wanting a more casual dining experience.

Absolutely! Bringing your own food and drinks is highly encouraged, especially if you plan on hiking or spending a full day exploring. This gives you flexibility and can save money.

The communities surrounding the park, such as Klamath Falls and Shady Cove, offer a wider range of dining options, from casual cafes to local restaurants.

Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the intense blue of the water is still captivating. Golden hour light on the surrounding peaks is also stunning. +1

Rim Village, Watchman Overlook, Phantom Ship Overlook, and the Cleetwood Cove Trail offer iconic photo opportunities. Don't forget to capture the 'Old Man of the Lake' if you see it!

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive caldera and lake views. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details like Wizard Island or distant peaks.

Drone usage is restricted in all U.S. National Parks, including Crater Lake, to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check the park's current regulations regarding drone operation.

For the blue water, try shooting with a polarizing filter to enhance saturation. For landscapes, use a smaller aperture (higher f-number) for greater depth of field. Experiment with exposure to capture the dynamic range.