Oregon is a popular destination for travelers around the world. Its diverse geography and scenic beauty covers incredible wildlife, high desert, rivers, valleys, mountains, waterfalls, lakes, and heavenly delicious & healthy food.
There are about 1,400 named lakes in the state of Oregon as per the Water Resources Department.
Oregon is undoubtedly a true wonderland to take a break from the daily grind and spend your vacations. If you’re on the hunt for a place to enjoy hiking, swimming, or a boat ride, the beautiful Oregon lakes are your must-visit destination.
Some of the famous lakes in Oregon are Crater Lake; Klamath County, Detroit Lake; Linn & Marion Counties, Strawberry Lake; Wallowa County, East Lake; Deschutes County, Waldo Lake; Lane County, Trillium Lake; Clackamas County, and many more.
Let’s check out the 15 best lakes in Oregon that are worth visiting.
Table of Contents
Crater Lake: Klamath County
The list of most beautiful lakes in Oregon must begin with Crater Lake. This Oregon natural attraction sits in Crater Lake National Park in Southern Oregon. It is approximately 600 meters deep, making Crater Lake the deepest lake in the country.
It’s well-known for its clear, royal blue waters and magnificent surrounding landscapes. This lake was formed 7.500 years ago in the volcano Caldera after the collapse of Mount Mazama.
Crater Lake surrounds two small islands which you can visit by boat. Crater Lake’s source of water is usually rain or snow. Its serene beauty lists Crater Lake among the clearest lakes in Oregon.
Rim Village and Rim Visitor Center are the best places to begin the journey to the national park. If you are planning to take a swim, do visit Cleetwood Cove. This is the only place in Crater Lake where you can enjoy swimming.
Best time to visit: July, August, & September (summer).
Activities can be performed: Biking, photography, trolley tours, picnicking, hiking, boat tours, etc.
Google map link: https://goo.gl/maps/a9qdSvGuvGNm5GFQ9
Nearby city: Klamath Falls (44.0 mi) and Medford 57.8 mi
Wallowa Lake: Wallowa County
Formed by a series of Pleistocene glaciers and surrounded by the Wallowa Mountains, Wallowa Lake sits at an elevation of 1,333 meters. Located 1 mile south of Joseph, Wallowa is a ribbon lake and is among the popular natural wonders of Oregon.
The Wallowa Lake State Park is situated at the southern corner of the lake where you can enjoy horseback riding, hiking, canoeing, and camping.
Wallowa Lake State Park is the ideal choice among best lakes in Oregon for travelers to use as a base camp and explore the wilderness. The State Park features a boat slipway, a day-use area, and a campground for more fun activities for visitors.
To embrace the scenic beauty of Wallowa Lake along with its surroundings, take a rental boat ride to the middle of this most beautiful lake in Oregon. Furthermore, you can head to Wallowa Lake Marina for rental boats and Wallowa Lake Tramway for a ride to the top of Mount Howard.
Best time to visit: May and June.
Activities can be performed: Water sports, Hiking, Fishing, The Tram, Horseback Riding, Kids Stuff, The Arts, and Whitewater Rafting.
Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/sZKgtTCrPVHbLHhr8
Nearby City: Joseph, Oregon
Waldo Lake: Lane County
Waldo Lake is one of the clearest lakes in the world and the second-largest body of natural water in Oregon. It is one of many cascade lakes in the Central Cascade region of Oregon. At 1,650 meters above sea level, the natural alpine lake is also located within the Cascade Mountains.
This clearest lake in Oregon is named after John B. Wald, though it was discovered by Molalla Indian Charlie Tufti. Wallowa Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in Oregon with a shoreline trail perfect for backpackers.
Buying land in Oregon near such beautiful lakes can help you earn high returns from the tourism industry of the state.
Best time to visit: August, September, and early October.
Activities can be performed: Camping & Cabins, Fishing, Hiking, Horse Riding & Camping, Picnicking, and Water Activities.
Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/sJWNmu2FzeEMkaC7A
Nearby City: Oakridge, Oregon
Trillium Lake: Clackamas County
Trillium Lake is another breathtaking well-known photography and camping site among best lakes in Oregon. It is a man-made lake formed by a dam at Mud Creek headwaters, a tributary to the Salmon River.
The lake sits around 7.5 miles south-southwest of Mount Hood in Oregon and is excellent place for camping and Nordic Skiing in the winters. Located 40 miles southeast of Portland, the campground is a family-friendly camping spot and sits alongside Trillium Lake. Thus we can say land investments around Trillium Lake holds high potential to provide significant ROI owing to growing tourists.
This lake is also well-known for its spectacular views of Mount Hood and offers abundant recreational opportunities. The campground also features a boat ramp and wheelchair-accessible floating dock for easy access for all tourists.
However, boats with the capacity to go up to 16kph are not allowed on the lake.
Best time to visit: Summer and Fall
Activities can be performed: Fishing, Swimming, Mountain Biking, Walking Trails, Hiking (2-3 miles), Interpretive Programs, Camping, Bird Watching, Kayaking, Stargazing, Boating (motorized & non-motorized), Canoeing, Historic & Cultural Sites, and Photography.
Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/tSBFMJq5W3nTXao86
Nearby City: Portland
East Lake: Deschutes County
East Lake is in the heart of Oregon, near the city of La Pine. It is a twin lake nestled in the caldera and has an elevation of 15 meters and 55 meters deep. Melting snow and rainfall are sources of water for East Lake. The picturesque landscape surrounding the clear blue waters of East Lake rightly ranks this water body among popular Oregon natural attractions.
As one of the best lakes in Oregon, East Lake offers travelers plenty of outdoor activities. Nature and adventure enthusiasts can opt for fun activities such as canoeing, kayaking, boating, photography, hiking, fishing, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing.
Furthermore, along the shoreline of the lake caldera, there is East Lake campground. It features a boat ramp, beach 29 single-family campsites for trailers, RVs, and tents. These activities make East Lake premises as one of the famous lakes in Oregon for adrenaline rush for adventure seekers of all ages.
Best time to visit: January, February, March, April
Activities can be performed: Hiking, Horse Riding & Camping, Hunting, Nature Viewing, OHV Riding & Camping, Bicycling, Camping & Cabins, Caving, Fishing, Outdoor Learning, Picnicking, Rocks & Minerals, Scenic Driving, Water Activities, and Winter Sports.
Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/xUJEkaRDSDwdYMQH6
Nearby City: Willowick, OH. Wickliffe, OH, and Willoughby, OH
Paulina Lake: Deschutes County
Paulina Lake is a twin lake and another popular clearest lake in Oregon within the caldera of Newberry Volcano. The lake covers 1,500 acres and sits 1,930 meters above sea level in the Newberry National Volcanic Monument. It’s an ideal location for recreational activities, such as Kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, and fishing.
As a famous fishing lake in Oregon, Paulina Lake has Kokanee and Salmon Brown Trout in abundance. Other fishes found in Paulina Lake are Blue Chub, Rainbow Trout, and Tui Chub. So, this goes without saying, Paulina Lake is a must visit attraction in Oregon for fishing lovers of all ages.
However, you must note that it’s prohibited to run boats or motors above 16 kph in Paulina Lake. Also, visitors can not enjoy waterskiing and jet skis here. These steps help maintain a sustainable ecosystem within and around Paulina Lake to help it grow as a popular fishing ground.
Best time to visit: May through July
Activities can be performed: Hiking, fishing, hot springs, boating, camping, mountain biking, Paulina Peak, snowboarding, Paulina Creek Falls.
Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/kN6NjeuxitUxBptaA
Nearby City: Bend, OR
Sparks Lake: Deschutes County
Sparks Lake was named for a 19th-century rancher, “Lige” Sparks. The lake is a natural body of water and well-known for its unmatched beauty and surrounding mountains. Its serene landscape involves conifer forests and snow-capped peaks of Cascade Range. Thus, painting the perfect picture for nature lovers.
The United States Forest Service takes care of activities like boating at this beautiful lake in Oregon. Sparks Lake is a fantastic destination for fishing, camping, kayaking, canoeing, and hiking.
As one of the best Oregon lakes, Sparks Lake provides both water and land recreational activities. Its stunning scenery also includes colorful flora along with panoramic views that make it the most desirable spot for summers. Furthermore, the water level in Sparks Lake is always under 10 feet. Thus, it’s safe for boating and swimming.
Speaking of boating, it is important to know that Spark Lake has restrictions for boats with engines above 16kph. Although Sparks Lake has Brook Trout and Cutthroat Trout, Fly Fishing is the only type of fishing allowed at Sparks Lake.
Best time to visit: June through November
Activities can be performed: Hiking, fishing, photography, canoeing, camping, kayaking.
Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/ewVJUQAu4YSyeEyV8
Nearby City: Bend, Oregon (25 mi)
Detroit Lake: Linn & Marion Counties
Located 50 miles East of Salem, Oregon, and impounded by Detroit Dam, Detroit lake is a reservoir spreading over 1,400 hectares. This lake was created by the damming of the North Santiam River and is adjacent to Oregon Route 22 near Detroit city.
Detroit Lake is a popular destination to enjoy year-round fishing, boating, swimming, and camping. Moreover, seven different campgrounds are surrounding the lake. Detroit Lake State Park and Mongold State Park are the main attractions on the north side of the lake as the best lakes in Oregon. Both parks offer boating, fishing, and swimming, but Mongold State Park is only for day use.
Best time to visit: May 21st to September 30th
Activities can be performed: Swimming, camping, fishing, and boating.
Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/mJgVgDSk2HT2sJf4A
Nearby City: Fergus Falls, MN, Moorhead, MN, Fargo, ND, West Fargo, ND, Wahpeton, ND, Bemidji, MN, Alexandria, MN, Brainerd, MN, Grand Forks, ND, Valley City, ND, Sartell, MN, Sauk Rapids, MN, Saint Cloud, MN, Willmar, MN, Grafton, ND.
Lost Lake: Hood River County
Known as a popular recreational site and one of the best lakes in Oregon, Lost Lake is located within the Mount Hood National Forest. Geographically, it is positioned 10.1 miles northwest of Mount Hood in Oregon. The lake offers 125 campsites, facilities to hire kayaks and rowboats, seven rustic cabins, and a rustic general store.
Thus, buying land in Oregon near this lake can be a significant step for your real estate investment. You can earn significant returns by leasing these lands for development of tourist industries.
This 99 hectare area is rarely touched by human development and destruction activities.
Consequently, it is home to black bears, rabbits, cougars, blacktail deer, and bobcats. The Lost Lake and its surrounding region is a protected wilderness area. Also, you cannot enter this region even with a motor bike, as this will lead to pollution and distract animal habitat here.
Lost lake is home to Brown Trout, Carry Fish, Brook Trout, Rainbow Trout, Otter, Kokanee Salmon, Crayfish, and beaver.
Best time to visit: Summer
Activities can be performed: Hiking, yurts, boating, camping.
Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/tmAb5S4CpUDh81P67
Nearby City: Washougal, WA, Troutdale, OR, Camas, WA, Gresham, OR, Fairview, OR, Gladstone, OR, Milwaukie, OR, Oregon City, OR.
Diamond Lake: Douglas County
Diamond Lake is among the most beautiful lakes in Oregon known for its breathtaking views and serene ambiance. It lies within the Umpqua National Forest between Mount Bailey and Mount Thiessen.
This lake hosts a natural water body and features trails connecting the lake to the two mountains and Pacific Crest Trail. Hiking on these trails is the best activity for nature lovers as they can indulge in bird watching while exploring flora and fauna of this region.
Furthermore, in summers, travelers visit this lake for swimming, horseback riding, hunting and other outdoor activities. But in winters, Diamond Lake turns into a popular spot for snowmobiling, inner tubing, sledge dog racing, and skiing. This lake is a true heaven for anglers. Diamond Lake also features five boat ramps with paved access.
Best time to visit: All year round – April, May, and early June
Activities can be performed: Bicycling, horseback riding, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing, fishing (rainbow trout), hiking, skiing, snowboarding, and tubing.
Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/AS3yKyU9syx1YKTs9
Nearby City: Roseburg, OR, Central Point, OR, Klamath Falls, OR, Medford, OR, Altamont, OR, Bend, OR, Ashland, OR, Springfield, OR.
Crescent Lake: Klamath County
Crescent Lake is another best lake in Oregon that lies on the Cascade Range on the eastern side in Klamath County, Oregon. It is a natural lake formed in a glacial deposit. Crescent Lake got its name for its crescent-like shape.
The lake has marvelous views and an excellent place for mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding. The Crescent Lake area has many trails and areas for off-road vehicles.
Several campgrounds and boat ramps surrounding Crescent Lake offer plenty of fun activities for nature lovers. Here, visitors can enjoy fishing, swimming, sailing, water skiing and similar adventurous activities.
This lake has abundant fishes, including Mountain Whitefish, Rainbow Trout, and Kokanee Salmon, as well as other varieties of Trout. Willamette Pass Ski Resort nearby the road offers lots of fun for the whole family.
Best time to visit: All year round
Activities can be performed: Fishing, hunting, hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, snowmobiling, riding, skiing, and dog sled racing.
Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/toDooAU1h8LajR2Q9
Nearby City: Bend, OR, Roseburg, OR, Klamath Falls, OR, Redmond, OR, Springfield, OR, Eugene, OR, Altamont, OR, and Lebanon, OR.
Lake Billy Chinook: Jefferson County
Lake Billy Chinook is a reservoir and among the beautiful lakes in Oregon surrounded by public land in Jefferson County, Oregon. This lake spreads in 1,600 areas and contains 72 mi (116 km) of shoreline.
Situated at the confluence of Deschutes, Crooked, and Metolius Rivers, Lake Billy Chinook is a popular reservoir. It lies within a canyon carved by three rivers more than 10 million years ago.
Lake Billy Chinook is also a perfect destination for water activities like boating, sailing, and water skiing. It is also a splendid destination for fishing. This famous lake in Oregon is home to fishes like Brown Trout, Smallmouth Bass, Sockeye Salmon, Kokanee, and Largemouth Bass.
Best time to visit: Open all year-round for angling Metolius arm March first to October 31.
Activities can be performed: Fishing, Water Activities, Motor Boating, Swimming, Waterskiing, and Windsurfing.
Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/tW1PEvWPPP7mz6nf7
Nearby City: Culver, OR
Odell Lake: Klamath County
Located near Willamette Pass in Klamath County, Odell Lake is the ultimate destination to spend vacation among best lakes in Oregon. It is surrounded by the Deschutes National Forest and gives breathtaking views of the Cascade Mountains. Odell Lake’s proximity to Willamette Pass attracts visitors to explore and enjoy its beauty when traveling along.
The climate and scenic beauty around this lake makes it a worthy option for real estate investors opting to buy land in Oregon.
As angler’s favorite spot, Odell Lake holds state records as a breeding ground for Lake Trout. Other species of fishes found in the lake include Mountain Whitefish, Rainbow Trout, and Kokanee Salmon.
It has three well-developed campgrounds around Odell Lake’s shoreline. Furthermore, it also hosts a few boat ramps available for motorized and non-motorized boats. Visitors also get the opportunity to enjoy water skiing, sailing, and windsurfing.
Best time to visit: All year round
Activities can be performed: Snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, Hiking, Frisbee Golf, Lake Tours, Hay Rides, downhill skiing, Biking, snowboarding, nesting, horseback riding, fishing, and guided fishing.
Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/6XkbYNw7bnhPgGyVA
Nearby City: Bend, OR (65 mi)
Upper Klamath Lake: Klamath County
With a surface area of 24,906 hectares, Upper Klamath Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Oregon. Upper Klamath Lake is a massive, shallow and clearest lake in Oregon, it sits east of the Cascade Range in south-central Oregon. It is situated at an elevation of 1,260 meters above sea level.
Furthermore, Upper Klamath Lake is approximately 8 miles wide and 25 miles long. Surrounded by dense forests and snow-covered mountains, Lake Klamath is a must visit Oregon natural attraction.
The Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuge Complex is located at the very north end of this lake. Fishing, hunting, and boating are popular activities to enjoy here. Furthermore, you can also choose from a plethora of options for wildlife explorations around this beautiful lake in Oregon to treat the nature lover in you.
Best time to visit: February through November
Activities can be performed: Camping, boating, fishing, bird watching, and hunting.
Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/ush5uhqXncRFjisB8
Nearby City: Bend, OR.
Strawberry Lake: Grant County
Strawberry Lake is located about 10 miles south of Prairie City in Grant County. Surrounded by snow-covered mountains, this water body covers about 36 acres enveloped with lush green forests. Strawberry Campground lies at the eastern edge of Sly Creek Reservoir. Its trailhead connects to other trails in the forest to provide day hiking and other backpacking trips.
The most popular recreational activities in the Strawberry Lake basin include skiing, fishing, hiking, backpacking, and camping. Kindly note that there is no road accessibility to this best lake in Oregon during winter.
Nevertheless, you can access this place through cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Fishing in Strawberry Lake is open all year round, with abundance of Brook Trout and Rainbow Trout.
Best time to visit: Late September to early October.
Activities can be performed: skiing, and fishing, hiking, and backpacking.
Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/PbZMnvYFi5cPbLsT9
Nearby City: Prairie City (10 miles)
To conclude, Oregon is home to stunning lakes that are ideal for recreational activities for nature and adventure lovers of all ages. However, if you are planning to dive deep, Scout Lake and Bays Lake are the best lakes in Oregon for swimming.
Moreover, these two lakes also offer perfect sites for camping and hiking to explore the natural beauty of Oregon. Also, with this, now you have a brief idea for investing in land to own the best lakefront properties.
If you are an interested investor aiming to purchase lakefront properties or exciting land for sale opportunities, connect with our real estate experts today.
