The third stop on the 2025 Family road trip brought us to the stunning Crater Lake National Park — famous for its deep blue water and dramatic caldera views. We only had one day to explore and didn’t camp, but we made the most of it.
Crater Lake was formed about 7,700 years ago when Mount Mazama, a massive volcano, erupted and then collapsed in on itself. This created a huge caldera that eventually filled with rain and snowmelt, forming the deepest lake in the United States. The water is so clear and blue because it has no rivers flowing in or out — it’s basically a giant, natural bowl of pure mountain water.
Winter was still hanging on strong (3 weeks into June!!!) when we visited, and most of the scenic drive was closed due to snow, so we couldn’t circle the lake like we’d hoped. Instead, we opted for a hike to Discovery Point, which turned out to be a blast. The trail was snowy and perfect for a little winter play — the kids had a great time stomping through the fresh powder and making snow angels along the way.
We also stopped by the Visitor’s Center, where the kids earned their Junior Ranger badges by learning all about the park’s unique geology, wildlife, and history. It was a proud moment, and a fun way to round out our visit.
Even with limited access, Crater Lake’s deep blue waters and sheer cliffs made a big impression. We’re definitely planning to come back someday when the roads are fully open — hopefully with camping gear in tow!
We finished the day with dinner at a Mexican place and this girl ate a burrito bigger than her head! Must have had the munchies after visiting Weed, CA.
This park rates at 3 out of 5 stars based on our standard criteria.
Rating Criteria: Fun, Scenic, Ease of Travel, Wildlife, Crowds