Crater Lake in September: Crowds, Weather & What to Pack
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September is one of the best months of the year to visit Crater Lake National Park: crowds run 49% of the July peak (80,963 average visits), days average 63°F with 12.5 hours of daylight. Computed from NPS and NOAA data.
Crowds in September
Crater Lake averages 80,963 recreation visits in September — 49% of what July, the peak month, draws. That crowd level sets the tone for parking, permits and lodging.
Weather & daylight
Days are pleasant (highs average 63°F), and mornings are chilly (lows average 37°F). It is typically dry (1.9″ of precipitation). Mid-month daylight runs 12.5 hours.
NOAA 1991–2020 monthly normals, station CRATER LAKE NPS HQ, OR US (1 mi from park coordinates, 6,485 ft elevation) — conditions vary inside the park, especially with elevation. Daylight computed for the 15th of September.
What to pack for Crater Lake in September
Computed from the month's weather normals above — not a generic list.
- Warm mid-layer (fleece or light puffy) — mornings average 37°F
- Sturdy broken-in footwear, navigation and a basic first-aid kit — every park, every month
Common questions
Is Crater Lake crowded in September?
Moderately: September runs 49% of the July peak, averaging 80,963 visits (NPS, 2021–2025).
What is the weather like in Crater Lake in September?
Average highs of 63°F, lows of 37°F, 1.9″ of precipitation (NOAA 1991–2020 normals, CRATER LAKE NPS HQ, OR US station).
What should I pack for Crater Lake in September?
Warm mid-layer (fleece or light puffy); Sturdy broken-in footwear, navigation and a basic first-aid kit — the full weather-computed list is on this page.
See also: the best national parks to visit in September · Last verified 2026-07-16