Odell Lake to Crater Lake: RV Weekend at Shelter Cove

Table of Contents

• Why Shelter Cove Works (Quick Planner)
• Day 1: Lakeside Check-In & Paddle Time
• Day 2: Crater Lake + Half-Day Pacific Crest Trail Hike
• Day 3: Resort Hookups vs. Rustic Forest Service Camping
• Fuel Planning (Highway 58 / US-97 Corridor)
• Late-Summer Packing (Wildfire-Aware & Mountain-Ready)
• Costs & Practicalities (At a Glance)
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
• Book Your Basecamp

Why Shelter Cove Works (Quick Planner)

• Basecamp: Shelter Cove Resort & Marina on Odell Lake in the Deschutes National Forest—easy access to lakes, trails, and scenic drives in Central Oregon.
• Trip type: Bend-to-Crater Lake road trip with two comfortable nights at the lake.
• Stay options: Lakeside rooms and RV areas via Rooms; on-site Amenities and Dining.
• Best season: Late spring through early fall, when mountain roads and lakeside activities shine.
• Book ahead: Reserve your dates.

Day 1: Lakeside Check-In & Paddle Time

Arrive & settle

Pull into your site or room at Shelter Cove. You’re on national forest land with tall pines, a lake-lodge feel, and easy shoreline access, ideal for Odell Lake RV camping.

On-water fun

Grab a paddleboard, kayak, or small boat through Activities. Odell Lake is known for calm morning water, long shoreline views, and a healthy fishery—kokanee salmon and lake trout headline the catch list.

Evening wind-down

Keep dinner easy with on-site Dining or enjoy a sunset picnic by the water. Cap the night off with dockside stargazing.

Day 2: Crater Lake + Half-Day Pacific Crest Trail Hike

Morning drive

Make a relaxed start toward Crater Lake National Park (often about 1.5-2 hours each way depending on routing and seasonal conditions). Top off fuel as you leave the lake area.

Can’t-miss views

Prioritize a few rim overlooks and a short rim-side walk for those deep-blue caldera panoramas, perfect for families and first-timers exploring Crater Lake lodging options and day-use highlights.

Trail time on the return

On your way back, stretch your legs on a half-day section of the Pacific Crest Trail near Shelter Cove (a known hiker resupply area). Well-graded paths, forest shade, and photo-worthy openings make it friendly for casual hikers.

Evening at the lake

Check the Events page for seasonal happenings, then unwind on the shoreline.

Day 3: Resort Hookups vs. Rustic Forest Service Camping

Resort convenience

Choose the comfort of full-service camping with Amenities like electric hookups, showers, laundry, a general store, marina access, and easy gear rentals—great for families and anyone who prefers on-site support and easy access to activities.

Forest Service feel

Prefer something simpler? Nearby Forest Service campgrounds on Odell Lake offer a quiet, rustic experience, usually without hookups and sometimes without potable water. It’s a great complement to a night or two at the resort if you want to sample both styles.

How to choose

• Pick Resort for comfort, hookups, and convenience.
• Pick Forest Service for maximum solitude and a back-to-basics vibe.

Fuel Planning (Highway 58 / US-97 Corridor)

Mountain driving is easier with a plan. Popular places to top off on a bend to crater lake road trip include Oakridge (OR-58), Crescent (OR-58/US-97), and Chemult (US-97). Verify hours if traveling early or late.

Late-Summer Packing (Wildfire Aware & Mountain Ready)

• Safety & air quality: N95 masks/eye protection during smoky periods; check regional updates before departing.
• Fire rules: Know current fire restrictions and follow posted guidance for campfires and stoves.
• Clothing & sun: Layers, sun hat, sunscreen; mountain weather changes quickly.
• Trail & water: Hydration packs, electrolytes, compact first-aid, and offline maps.
• Fishing notes: Review current regulations for kokanee salmon and lake trout before casting.

Costs & Practicalities (At a Glance)

• Crater Lake entry: Expect a standard national park entrance fee or an interagency pass.
• Seasonality: Some park roads and services are seasonal; check conditions shortly before your visit.
• When to visit: Late June through September usually offers the best combination of road access and lakeside activities.
• Reservations: Popular weekends fill quickly so book early.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long is the drive from Shelter Cove to Crater Lake?

Plan roughly 1.5-2 hours each way, depending on route, construction, and seasonal road openings.

Do I need a reservation to enter Crater Lake?

A park entrance fee or pass is required. Separate park reservations are not typically required for a standard day visit.

Is there a half-day hike close to Shelter Cove?

Yes. A well-traveled section of the Pacific Crest Trail is accessible near the resort, making it easy to add a few scenic miles to your day.

Are there hookups at Forest Service campgrounds on Odell Lake?

Generally no. Expect rustic sites without electric/water hookups, and bring your own water if potable water isn’t provided.

What are the best things to do at Odell Lake?

Paddleboarding, kayaking, boat rentals, shoreline walks, and fishing for kokanee salmon and lake trout. Start with the resort Activities page for rentals and options.

Where should I book my stay?

Choose a lakeside room or RV area via Rooms and lock in dates here: Book now.

Book Your Basecamp

From sunrise paddles to blue-rim horizons, Shelter Cove Resort is a comfortable launchpad for RV camping in Central Oregon and day-trips to Crater Lake National Park. Check Offers for seasonal deals, browse Activities.