Historic Resource Study, Crater Lake National Park, Oregon, 1984
IX. Trails and Campgrounds of Crater Lake National Park
G. Evaluations and Recommendations
The construction of trails in Crater Lake National Park was a continuing process that began near the turn of the century. The first goals were to provide access to the lake edge and then to the summit of Wizard Island. Once these were achieved, trails were built to several of the higher elevations in the park that offered spectacular panoramic views. In the early 1930s Public Works projects included several more new trails that opened up more of the area s natural features to viewing. Trails into the backcountry were developed for the more serious hiker.
Campgrounds were an essential addition to the lake area as soon as steady visitation began in the 1890s. Concession facilities in the form of tent camps were provided in the early 1900s and remained a popular feature even after the Crater Lake Lodge was built. At one time a total of nine campgrounds existed, the most popular being that at the rim, where campers could sleep among the trees and wake up to beautiful sunrises over the lake.
The trails and campgrounds offered added incentive to tourists to visit Crater Lake and the recreational opportunities they offered added immeasurably to visitor enjoyment. None of the trails or campgrounds, however, have historical significance in terms of construction techniques, layout, or location that would justify their nomination to the National Register.
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