🏕 Campground
Mazama Campground (Crater Lake NP)
About This Permit
Mazama is the only drive-in campground inside Crater Lake National Park, set in lodgepole pine forest 6–7 miles south of the Rim Village. The park's short season concentrates all visitation into a 3-month window, making July and August reservations competitive. The caldera lake — the deepest in the US — is one of the most brilliantly blue bodies of water in the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mazama the only campground at Crater Lake?
It's the only drive-in campground. Lost Creek Campground (16 tent-only sites on the east side) is a second option — it is always first-come, first-served and never requires a reservation. Note: Lost Creek was closed for maintenance in 2025; verify current status before visiting.
How far is Mazama from the Crater Lake rim?
6–7 miles south of Rim Village — about a 10-minute drive. The rim road is 33 miles around the entire caldera. Most campers drive or bike to rim viewpoints, Crater Lake Lodge, and the Cleetwood Cove Trail (the only trail to the water).
When does Crater Lake get crowded?
July 4th through mid-August is peak season. Late June and late September offer good weather with noticeably lower crowds. The lake is deepest blue and clearest in July and August.
Key Facts
- State
- OR
- Season
- Late June – late September (snow closes the rim road in winter)
- Sites
- 214 sites (tent and RV; some hookup sites)
- Access
- Hwy 62 / Annie Springs entrance, Crater Lake NP, south side of the park
- Reservation Window
- June: first-come, first-served. July – September: reservations required on recreation.gov. Some first-come sites available year-round.
- Difficulty to reserve
- 3/5(Competitive)
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