Crater Lake (Cleetwood Cove)
Lake · Oregon
ℹ️ Community-reported spot. Details below are compiled from public sources and are reported to be accurate — always verify locally before visiting.
About this swimming hole
Cleetwood Cove is the only legal lake access in Crater Lake National Park, reached by a steep mile-long trail down the caldera wall. Swimming in the impossibly blue, 1,900-foot-deep lake is allowed — and the 60-degree water is a true polar plunge. The boat dock here also launches the Wizard Island tours.
Good to know
| Water type | Lake |
|---|---|
| Water temperature | 50s-60s in summer |
| Depth | swim from the Cleetwood Cove trail; deep lake |
| Best season | July-September |
| Fees | Park entrance fee |
| Reservations required | No |
| Parking | Cleetwood trailhead lot; steep 1-mile hike down |
| Amenities | vault toilets |
| County | Klamath County |
| Nearest town | (Crater Lake NP) |
| Safety notes | no lifeguard; very cold water; steep strenuous trail; cliff jumping prohibited |
Map
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Does Crater Lake (Cleetwood Cove) require reservations?
No reservations are required at Crater Lake (Cleetwood Cove) based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Crater Lake (Cleetwood Cove)?
Reported fee info: Park entrance fee. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Crater Lake (Cleetwood Cove)?
The best season is typically July-September.
⚠️ Verify before you go. Conditions, fees, reservations, and access can change — confirm details with the official link before visiting. Last verified: September 2026