Getting to Crater Lake National Park
Crater Lake National Park sits in OR, United States, with Shady Cove the nearest town of any size — about 42.7 mi (68.7 km) out, or roughly 1 hr 26 min of driving.
Towns to base yourself in
| Town | Distance | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| Shady Cove | 42.7 mi (68.7 km) | 1 hr 26 min |
| Eagle Point | 48.1 mi (77.5 km) | 1 hr 35 min |
| White City | 50.9 mi (81.9 km) | 1 hr 39 min |
| Klamath Falls | 52 mi (83.7 km) | 1 hr 41 min |
| Altamont | 53.9 mi (86.8 km) | 1 hr 44 min |
| Glide | 56.3 mi (90.7 km) | 1 hr 47 min |
| Central Point | 56.9 mi (91.6 km) | 1 hr 48 min |
| Medford | 57.9 mi (93.2 km) | 1 hr 49 min |
How to read these numbers
Distances are straight-line between the town and the park centre. Drive estimates add a road factor and an average speed, which is close enough for planning but wrong wherever mountains, ferries, or seasonal closures are involved.
Inside a large park, getting from the entrance to the part you came to see can add another hour or more.
Region pages
Common questions
What is the closest town to Crater Lake National Park?
Shady Cove, about 42.7 mi (68.7 km) away — roughly 1 hr 26 min of driving.
Where should I stay when visiting Crater Lake National Park?
The practical bases are Shady Cove, Eagle Point, and White City — all within a reasonable drive of the park.