Places to Stay Near Crater Lake

Places to Stay Near Crater Lake: Your Guide to Lodging, Camping, and Nearby Towns

Crater Lake National Park, with its famously deep blue water and volcanic origins, is one of the most breathtaking destinations in the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re planning a summer adventure or a winter escape, finding the right place to stay is crucial to making the most of your visit. While there are limited accommodations inside the park, several nearby towns and campgrounds offer convenient and comfortable options for all types of travelers. Here’s a complete guide to places to stay near Crater Lake—from rustic lodges to full-service resorts and quiet campsites.

🏨 Lodging Inside Crater Lake National Park

1. Crater Lake Lodge

Location: Rim Village, inside the park

Season: Open late May through mid-October (weather dependent)

Highlights: Historic charm, lake-view rooms, dining on-site

Crater Lake Lodge is the only in-park hotel and the most iconic place to stay. Built in 1915, the lodge sits right on the caldera rim, offering unparalleled views of the lake. Rooms are rustic and simple, but the real draw is the atmosphere—especially the Great Hall fireplace and the terrace with lakefront seating.

Book early—rooms fill up quickly, often a year in advance.

2. Mazama Village Cabins & Campground

Location: 7 miles from Rim Village

Season: Mid-June to late September

Amenities: Gas station, camp store, restaurant, showers

Mazama Village is a family-friendly option located in a forested area. The cabins are cozy and affordable, while the campground offers over 200 sites for tents and RVs, including flush toilets and potable water.

🛏️ Lodging Near Crater Lake (Outside the Park)

3. Union Creek Resort

Location: About 23 miles west of the park (via Hwy 62)

Style: Historic lodge and cabins

Open: Year-round

A charming 1920s resort nestled along the Rogue River, Union Creek offers cabins, lodge rooms, and a café. It’s a good base for hiking, fishing, and accessing Crater Lake’s west entrance.

4. Crater Lake Resort

Location: Fort Klamath, 9 miles from the south park entrance

Open: Year-round

Amenities: Cabins, tent sites, RV sites, general store

This peaceful riverside resort provides a balance of comfort and nature, with cute cabins and serene surroundings near the Wood River. It's ideal for families and travelers looking for a quiet stay.

5. Running Y Ranch Resort

Location: Klamath Falls, about 50 miles south of the park

Style: Upscale resort with golf, spa, and dining

While farther from the park, Running Y is a full-service resort perfect for those who want luxury and recreation before or after visiting Crater Lake.

6. Diamond Lake Resort

Location: North of Crater Lake (30 minutes from the North Entrance)

Open: Year-round

Activities: Boating, fishing, winter sports

Popular for both summer and winter, Diamond Lake Resort features motel rooms, cabins, and RV hookups. It’s a great spot for outdoor lovers who want easy access to Crater Lake and other nearby attractions like Mount Bailey.

7. Prospect Historic Hotel – Motel and Dinner House

Location: 30 miles west of Crater Lake

Style: Historic inn with modern motel units

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this inn has welcomed visitors since 1892. It’s known for its hospitality, proximity to waterfalls (like Mill Creek and Barr Creek Falls), and hearty dinners.

🏕️ Camping Near Crater Lake

If you're looking for a more rustic experience, there are several campgrounds both in and around the park.

In the Park:

◉ Mazama Campground (as mentioned above) – tent and RV sites, open mid-June to late September

Nearby Campgrounds:

Lost Creek Campground: Small, first-come, first-served campground on the east side of the park (tent only)

Joseph H. Stewart State Recreation Area: Located on Lost Creek Lake, about 45 minutes from Crater Lake

Diamond Lake Campgrounds: Multiple options north of the park, including RV access and lakeside camping

🏘️ Nearby Towns with Lodging

If you're looking for hotels, motels, or vacation rentals with more flexibility:

Fort Klamath (9 miles away) – Closest town to the south entrance; small inns and B&Bs

Chemult (25 miles away) – Budget motels, gas, and a few restaurants

Chiloquin (30 miles away) – Quiet and scenic; access to the Williamson River

Klamath Falls (60 miles away) – Full city amenities, from chain hotels to local eateries

Medford (80 miles away) – Ideal if flying in; offers shopping, dining, and major hotels

Final Thoughts

Whether you want to wake up to a view of Crater Lake itself or enjoy a cozy forest cabin nearby, there are accommodations to suit every kind of traveler. Staying inside the park offers unbeatable access and scenery, while the surrounding towns and campgrounds provide diverse options at different price points. No matter where you stay, the magic of Crater Lake will be just a short drive—or hike—away.