Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

Crater Lake National Park is in southern Oregon as part of the Cascade Mountain range. The lake water is so blue and clear because there is hardly anything else in it – just water. Crater Lake was once an ancient volcano known as Mount Mazama. Its greatest eruption occurred about 7,700 years and today, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States and one of the top ten deepest in the world.
Note: with the snowfall the area receives each year, the roadway (‘Rim Road’) is open for a brief time during the summer, so plan accordingly. The park itself is open year-round.

See more photographs of Crater Lake National Park

Season Visited:	Late July
Website:	Link to Crater Lake National Park Website
Biking:	Within Crater Lake NP, the NP Website suggests: "Only cyclists experienced at riding with elevated vehicle traffic in two directions, should consider biking at Crater Lake. Cycling the three miles of road between park headquarters and Rim Village is discouraged due to limited sight distance, and a narrow, steep, winding road with heavy traffic." However, nearby just north of the park is another lake (Diamond Lake). The John Dellenbek Trail, loops around the lake with gorgeous views of the lake, wildlife, and flora. Highly recommended.
Don’t Miss:	Scenic Rim Drive Sinnott Memorial Overlook The Historic Crater Lake Lodge Over 90 miles of hikes - including down to the lake. Outside the Park is another lake: the Diamond Lake. There is a Resort at the lake numerous activities, shopping and dining. We stayed at the RV park, but there is also a large campground for all types of camping.
Notes:	While the park is open year round, the best time to go is the the summer months, so that you can enjoy the views from Rim Road. Even then, check the website to ensure the road is open. You do not need a reservation for this park. View the Fees and Passes page for entrance locations and fee structure
Our Rating:	7 out of 10 on the “We’re going to miss this place” scale. While stunningly beautiful and worth the trip, due to the limited number of months available to enjoy all that the NP offers, it was a bit crowded - go early!
RV Park:	Diamond Lake RV Park Review: Beautiful RV Park with nice amenities and close to the Diamond Lake Resort (this resort had a great, friendly restaurant and plenty of water activities). The lake had a beautiful bike path around it as well as hiking nearby.