Little Crater Lake
The campground opens for the 2026 season on May 22. Season runs through late September. Some sites are first-come, first-served early in the season, with reservations available through Recreation.gov starting late May.
Alcohol Prohibitions
This Order describes acts that are prohibited upon lands, roads and trails within the National Forest System administered by the Forest Service Pacific Northwest Region in regards to alcoholic beverages.
Aquatic Invasive Species
This Order prohibits 1) possessing, storing, or transporting any aquatic invasive animal species AND 2) prohibits possessing, storing, or transporting any aquatic or riparian invasive plant species - on National Forest System lands in the Pacific Northwest Region as specified in the Order.
Restrictions on Use of Forage and Mulch Products
This Order prohibits unloading, storing, or using any straw, hay, grain, seed, or other forage or mulch products that are not state-certified weed free on the National Forest System lands, roads or trails in any Closure Area as specific in the Order. Some examples of these include hay bales, hay…
About
Little Crater Lake Campground is one of the most scenic spots in Mt. Hood National Forest. Set in a quiet evergreen forest at 3,300 feet elevation, the campground provides comfortable tent and small RV camping with about 15 single-family sites. Each site includes a picnic table and campfire ring with grill. Accessible vault toilets and a hand-pump water spigot near the entrance serve the facility. The campground's namesake, Little Crater Lake, is a geologic oddity thought to have formed when artesian water forced its way through soft volcanic rock. The small, spring-fed pond features crystal-clear turquoise water that remains cold year-round. A short viewing trail begins in the campground and connects to the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail. Swimming is strictly prohibited to protect the lake's sensitive ecological features. Timothy Lake, a 1,400-acre reservoir popular for boating and fishing, is nearby. Anglers will find Kokanee salmon and stocked trout. The surrounding meadows offer excellent huckleberry picking in season and good wildlife viewing opportunities.
Directions
From Sandy, travel southeast on Highway 26 past Government Camp and Frog Lake to Forest Road 42. Follow Road 42 south approximately 4 miles to Forest Road 58. Turn right and travel northwest about 2 miles to the campground.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $26 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 26ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 26ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (503) 622-3191 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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