Crater Lake · December · Oregon
Crater Lake National Park in December
December is a fair month for Crater Lake National Park, with some limitations. It is one of the quietest times to go. Highs average 33°F and lows 22°F, with about 7.16 inches of rain.
December is rated fair at Crater Lake. Consider Jul–Sep instead.
What to expect
Honest take: December is not the month for Crater Lake. One of the snowiest inhabited places in the country, averaging around 40 feet a year. Only the south entrance and Rim Village stay open; ranger-led snowshoe walks run on weekends.
Snow often lingers on trails into July. If you want the full experience (Rim Drive, the boat, swimming), aim for late July through mid-September.
Good to know
- Best months overall: Jul–Sep.
- Closest airport: Medford (MFR), about 1.5 hours.
- Before you go: The north entrance and most of Rim Drive close in winter. Boat tours are seasonal, usually July to September, and sell out. Check current conditions on nps.gov.
Questions
Is December a good time to visit Crater Lake National Park?
December is a fair month for Crater Lake National Park, with some limitations. It is one of the quietest times to go. Highs average 33°F and lows 22°F, with about 7.16 inches of rain.
What is the weather like in Crater Lake National Park in December?
Highs average 33°F and lows 22°F, with about 7.16 inches of rain. Conditions are fair this month, so check the month-by-month ratings before you commit.
How crowded is Crater Lake National Park in December?
December is one of the quietest months at Crater Lake National Park.