Best Campgrounds in Crater Lake

Tent campers and RV enthusiasts alike will enjoy the heavily wooded and well-equipped setting of Mazama Campground. Lost Creek Campground is much smaller, with minimal amenities and a more "rustic" Crater Lake experience. Pack bug repellent and patience if camping in the snowmelt season.

Lost Creek Campground. The 16 small, remote tent sites here are usually available on a daily basis; in July and August arrive early to secure a spot. The cost is $10 nightly. 3 miles south of Rim Rd. on Pinnacles Spur Rd. at Grayback Dr.541/594–3100.

Mazama Campground. This campground is set well below the lake caldera in the pine and fir forest of the Cascades not far from the main access road (Highway 62). Drinking water, showers, and laundry facilities help ensure that you don't have to rough it too much. About half the 200 spaces are pull-throughs, some with electricity and a few with hookups. The best tent spots are on some of the outer loops above Annie Creek Canyon. Tent sites cost $22, RV ones $31. Mazama Village, near Annie Spring entrance station 541/594–2255, 888/774–2728www.craterlakelodges.com.