A Review of the Crater Lake Lodge in Medford, Oregon

Crater Lake Lodge in Oregon fits naturally among the scenic beauty of Crater Lake. It is part of a group of lodges located along the "rim" of the lake. The lake itself draws tourists year-round, but that's especially true in the summer, when temperatures around the lake are relatively mild and pleasant. Understanding the perquisites and drawbacks of the Crater Lake Lodge can help you make an informed decision about whether it's right for you.

Wows and Woes

Call before you book at Crater Lake Lodge, and ask for the manager on duty. Ask the manager about deals, and specify what you are expecting from your stay at the lodge. The majority of visitors desire a "lake view" that the lodge has in abundance to some degree. If you are looking for a turn-of-the-20th-century lodging experience, you've come to the right place; the lodge has been maintained in its original 1910 design. Expect a spacious main hall with relatively small rooms to sleep in.

The lodge is operated by the National Park Service and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, so expect some eccentricities. The staff are government employees and not hotel chain employees, so things are done differently. Still, the staff is friendly and can help point out scenic places for hiking or for snapshots.
The lodge's dining room is adequate. The food is good and mid-priced, but it's nothing spectacular. Many visitors prefer to drive into Medford for a special meal, though Medford lacks the beautiful views of the lake.

Insider Tips

The biggest "wow" of the lodge is its location; some of the views of the lake are spectacular. Another is the lodge itself, with its rustic setting and limited amenities. There are no telephones, built-in hair dryers, air conditioning or other hotel amenities, but this will only make a visit to the lodge more special to the adventurous spirit.
The largest "woe" is that some lake-view rooms offer a paltry view of the lake itself, with some windows being particularly small for modern tastes. Also, while the lodge's lack of amenities is a draw for some people, others expecting a certain level of hotel service will not enjoy the rustic feel. There is no public transportation, and there are no gas stations in the park itself, so you will need to rent a car in Medford or another city to reach and leave Crater Lake. Finally, there have been complaints about the level of service offered by the staff, most of which revolve around a "hotel experience" mentality. The lodge is deliberately non-high-tech and non-luxury, which may annoy some travelers.

Bottom Line

Book via telephone [with the manager] to ensure the best possible room. In order to take full advantage of your stay, come with the attitude that the lodge is a step or two above camping but not a hotel. The cost of staying at Crater Lake Lodge is about the same as that of an upper mid-tier hotel in nearby Medford, but the location can make a huge difference for those wishing to "get back to a simpler time" on their vacations. Finally, book as early as possible for the best chance of a good deal on a great room. The lodge fills up quickly, especially in the summer months. And remember, the lodge is open only from mid-May to mid-October.