Steel Information Center

Steel Information Center has reopened after a major structural renovation to stabilize the building against seismic and excessive snow load forces. The historic integrity of this former ranger dormitory, now known as the Steel Information Center, remains while accessibility and safety have been increased for all visitors and staff. The building received get new electric wiring, IT cabling, plumbing, heating, and an updated interior building layout.

Per the National Park Service, as of 2026-08-04

Per the National Park Service, as of 2026-08-04

Steel Visitor Center is located at park headquarters, 4 miles north of Highway 62 and 3 miles south of Rim Village on Munson Valley Road (sometimes shown on maps as Volcanic Scenic Byway). Turn into park headquarters at the only blinking 3-way stop sign in the park. During summer, there are two accessible parking spaces in front of the flagpole, and drop-off space next to the winter-access snow tunnel on the right side of the visitor center.

Steel Visitor Center is in the historic, park headquarters area. A blinking stop sign, the only one in the park, signals where to turn off the main drive and into the oval parking lot with an oval center of native plants (currently more dirt than plants). The American flag flies on a pole in front of the 2-story, native stone building with wood roof shingles. If the flag is not erected, it is a signal that the visitor center and all amenities are closed. The Sager Administration Building is also in the oval with additional parking behind it. There are two accessible parking spaces in front of the flagpole, and drop-off space next to the winter-access snow tunnel. Entry into the building is across a native stone walkway in the front during summer but through a year-round snow tunnel on the right side of the building during winter and early spring. The stones on the front walkway create an unlevel surface which presents navigation challenges for some. At the building entrance are trash and recycling containers. A native stone patio, and stone corners with low wood railings surrounds a bank of windows, and provides a place for visitors to gather. The front entry door is a large, wood, rustic-style door. Once inside, immediately to the right is a window opening to the Crater Lake Post Office, (check for current hours) a mail drop-slot, and a few framed posters sold in the park store. Approximately five to six steps forward from the front door is a hallway to the right. In nine steps up a slightly-sloped ramp, and to the right are the men’s restroom, a combination drinking fountain and water bottle filling station, and the women’s restroom. An outward swinging door to each restoom provides access to an accessible stall, toilets, and urinals respectively. A baby diaper changing station is found in the women’s restroom. To the left of the front door is the visitor center, auditorium, and the park store operated by the Crater Lake Natural History Association. Rangers and park store personnel are available to answer your questions about the park and assist with travel plans. The space is small so there are no exhibits except for a relief model of the lake and caldera rim. You will find a variety of books, gifts, Junior Ranger and educational items for sale. A few comfy chairs are in front of an historic native stone, non-functional, fireplace. During summer the room is too crowded to linger but during winter the chairs offer a nice reprieve from the cold. A door next to the visitor center information desk leads into the auditorium which seats 37 people. Within three feet of entering the auditorium, there are two steps up, marked with yellow tape. Staff is available to safely assist everyone in finding an available seat. A park video plays every hour and half hour. An audio described version is shown upon request.

• Rim Visitor Center
  Passport stamp

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