Crater Lake National Park is one of those magical places that looks like it’s been plucked from a storybook and dropped into the heart of Oregon. With its deep blue water, towering cliffs, and fascinating volcanic history, this park offers something for every member of the family. If you’re planning a trip and wondering about the best things to do in Crater Lake National Park, we’ve got you covered!
What Is Crater Lake?
Crater Lake, located in southern Oregon, is the deepest lake in the U.S. and known for its stunning blue water. It was formed over 7,000 years ago when Mount Mazama, a large volcano, erupted and collapsed, creating a massive crater. Over time, rain and snow filled the crater, forming the lake we see today.
Take in the Views at Rim Village
No visit to Crater Lake is complete without a stop at Rim Village, the heart of the park and the perfect starting point for any family adventure. Located on the lake’s southwest rim, Rim Village offers sweeping panoramic views of Crater Lake, Wizard Island, and the surrounding caldera. It’s the best place to get your first up-close look at the lake, and it’s just steps from the parking lot, making it super accessible for families with kids.
The Rim Village Visitor Center is a great spot to begin. Here, you’ll find park rangers ready to answer questions, as well as interpretive exhibits about the park’s formation, history, and wildlife. Kids can pick up their Junior Ranger activity books here too.
You’ll also find Crater Lake Lodge at Rim Village, a beautiful historic building where you can grab a snack, enjoy a meal with a view, or just relax on the back patio in one of the lodge’s iconic rocking chairs. It’s a great spot for the whole family to unwind while soaking in the scenery. Several short walking paths start from Rim Village, including the Discovery Point Trail, which offers a gentle walk along the rim with nonstop views. Even just strolling around the paved paths is enjoyable, and there’s plenty of space for kids to explore safely.
Drive the Scenic Rim Drive
Driving the Scenic Rim Drive is one of the most breathtaking and family-friendly ways to explore Crater Lake National Park. This 33-mile loop circles the entire rim of the caldera and features over 30 pullouts, viewpoints, and picnic areas.
The full loop takes about 2 to 3 hours to complete, but you’ll want to allow extra time for stops. Families can hop out at spots like Watchman Overlook, Cloudcap Overlook, and Pumice Castle, each offering jaw-dropping views and plenty of photo ops. Some stops are just a few steps from the car, making them perfect for younger kids or those who want to stretch their legs without a long hike.
Rim Drive is typically open from late June to October, depending on snow conditions, and is best enjoyed on a clear day when the lake’s colors are most vibrant. Be sure to pack snacks, water, and maybe even a picnic lunch, as there are several scenic spots to enjoy a family meal with unbeatable views.
Tip: Start early in the day to avoid crowds and give yourself time to explore without rushing.
Take a Boat Tour
One of the most unforgettable things to do in Crater Lake National Park is embarking on a guided boat tour across the lake. These two-hour cruises offer a unique vantage point of the lake’s stunning blue waters and surrounding cliffs. As you glide over the crystal-clear surface, you’ll learn about the park’s volcanic history, geology, and the diverse wildlife that inhabits the area. The boat’s captain and onboard park ranger provide insightful commentary, enriching your understanding of this natural wonder.
Phantom Ship, a jagged rock formation that rises eerily from the lake’s surface, is one of the most fascinating sights on the tour. Its silhouette resembles a ghostly sailing ship, especially in low light, and it’s one of Crater Lake’s most iconic and mysterious landmarks.
Another breathtaking feature is Llao Rock, a massive cliff formed by ancient lava flows. As the boat passes beneath it, you’ll get an up-close view of its towering face and learn about its volcanic origins, as well as the legends behind its name.
Keep an eye out for the Old Man of the Lake, a 30-foot tree trunk that has been floating upright in the lake for over 100 years. It drifts freely around the lake, and spotting it is a fun and memorable moment for both kids and adults.
During the cruise, you’ll also learn why Crater Lake is such a vibrant, deep blue, thanks to its exceptional depth, purity, and the way sunlight interacts with the water.
Visit Wizard Island
For adventurous families looking to add something extra special to their Crater Lake trip, visiting Wizard Island is a must! This volcanic cinder cone rises 763 feet above the lake’s surface and is one of the park’s most iconic features.
To reach Wizard Island, you’ll need to take a boat tour that includes a drop-off, which is usually offered in the summer months (mid-July to early September). Once on the island, you can hike the Wizard Island Summit Trail, a 2.2-mile round-trip trek that leads to the top of the cone. From the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Crater Lake that are absolutely unforgettable.
Families can also enjoy exploring the shoreline, skipping rocks, or just relaxing while surrounded by the lake’s surreal beauty. It’s a great opportunity to let kids roam and discover this unique volcanic landscape up close.
Hike Down to the Water at Cleetwood Cove
If you’re eager to get up close to the lake’s famous blue water, the Cleetwood Cove Trail is the only way to hike down to the shoreline, and it’s totally worth the effort! This 1.1-mile trail (one way) descends about 700 feet from the rim to the lake, offering incredible views along the way.
While the trail is steep and has several switchbacks, it’s well-maintained and doable for active kids and adults. Just take your time and bring plenty of water. Once at the bottom, you’ll have the rare opportunity to touch the water, dip your toes in, or even jump in for a brisk swim (yes, it’s cold even in summer!).
This is also the same trail used to board boat tours, so if you’re planning to cruise the lake, you’ll need to hike down Cleetwood Cove first. For families not taking a boat, just spending time at the water’s edge is a peaceful and unforgettable experience.
Tip for families: Bring water shoes if you plan to explore the rocky shoreline, and pack snacks to enjoy a mini lakeside picnic. Just remember, what goes down must come back up, so save some energy for the climb!
The Family Verdict
Crater Lake National Park is more than just a beautiful destination; it’s a place to reconnect with nature, share new experiences, and make unforgettable memories. Whether you’re hiking, driving, boating, or simply relaxing together, there are countless things to do in Crater Lake National Park that everyone will enjoy.
Make sure to check out our adventures in Mount Saint Helens Ape Cave Lava Tubes, Oregon Coast Road Trip, and Redwood National Park. Also, follow along on our road trip through the Pacific Northwest!
Follow along on our other amazing family travel adventures at adventureisinoursouls.com.
