From one of the most famous natural attractions in the world to remote, little-known hidden gems that require a strenuous hike, Oregon lakes cover a wide spectrum. Use this guide to help you plan out your next lake-based adventure in Oregon!
The Beaver State may be renowned for its rugged, moody coastline and wild rivers, but there are also over 1,400 named lakes in Oregon . Hands down, there are few better places for water enthusiasts!
With so many lakes to explore, where do you even start? That’s exactly why we put this guide together. As Bend residents who absolutely love exploring Oregon, we’ve spent a decent chunk of time scouring every corner of our home state.
This guide covers some of the best Oregon lakes, with highlights, tips for visiting, and other helpful details. Best of all, you’ll also get to experience some of the state’s other natural wonders up close, like waterfalls, hiking through rugged mountains, and mossy old-growth forests. Let’s dive in!
1. Crater Lake
- Location: Crater Lake National Park in southern Oregon
- Swimming: yes
- Hike-in required: no
- Adjacent campground: Lost Creek Campground and Mazama Campground (tents only)
- Boating: no private boats allowed, but visitors can take boat tours
- Boat ramp: no
- Boat/equipment rental: none
Crater Lake is arguably one of the most famous sites in all of Oregon. At 1,943 feet, it’s the deepest lake in the United States, and it’s recognizable by its deep, sapphire blue color. The lake has no outlets; it’s fed solely by rain and snowmelt, so it’s also incredibly clear.
Being in a national park, there are several ways to explore Crater Lake. Start with the scenic 33-mile Crater Lake Rim Drive (typically open from July through October), then do some hikes and take a boat tour (offered July through September).
2. Tamolitch Blue Pool
- Location: Willamette National Forest
- Swimming: yes
- Hike-in required: yes
- Adjacent campground: none adjacent, but there are tons of sites nearby in the Willamette National Forest
- Boating: not allowed
- Boat ramp: no
- Boat/equipment rental: none
Best known as “Blue Pool,” this gem is unique among many other Oregon Lakes. Nestled in the Willamette National Forest, the impossibly clear, blue water pools at the base of seasonal Tamolitch Falls in the middle of the mossy forest.
Note that while the Blue Pool is accessible year-round, it’s only brilliant blue on clear, sunny days. You can also swim in it, but beware that the water is frigid — it’s never warmer than 38℉!
Hike to Tamolitch Blue Pool
- Distance: 3.6 miles out and back (via the McKenzie River Trail)
- Elevation gain: 285 feet
- Difficulty rating: Easy to moderate
- View the trail notes
From the McKenzie River Trailhead, the hike to Tamolitch Blue Pool is scenic and relatively flat, following the river most of the way. It’s listed as moderate, but we honestly think it’s pretty easy, since there’s minimal elevation gain.
There’s another trail to the Blue Pool starting from the Carmen Reservoir, but it’s nearly twice as long and quite a bit more challenging.
3. Mirror Lake
- Location: Mt. Hood National Forest
- Swimming: yes
- Hike-in required: yes
- Adjacent campground: none adjacent, but Trillium Lake Campground is nearby
- Boating: not allowed
- Boat ramp: no
- Boat/equipment rental: none
Tucked into Mt. Hood National Forest, Mirror Lake makes a perfect family-friendly outing. The hike in is easy and flat, and the views of Mt. Hood towering over the lake can’t be beat!
This is an excellent spot for a picnic, but be aware that there are no services at Mirror Lake. It’s super close to Trillium Lake (more on that below!) and Timberline Lodge, so you can make a full day out of it.
Hike to Mirror Lake
- Distance: 3.7-mile loop*
- Elevation gain: 460 feet
- Difficulty rating: Easy to moderate
- View the trail notes
Starting from the Mt. Hood Ski Bowl parking lot, the hike to Mirror Lake is an easy-going 1.9 miles. Once there, hikers can loop around the lake on a wooden boardwalk. For a bigger day, continue another 1.8 miles to Tom Dick and Harry!
Mirror Lake is also an excellent snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trail in the winter and spring. Note that between November 1 and April 30, you’ll need a Sno-Park permit.
*The trailhead was moved slightly in 2021, so a bit of the total distance is shaved off now. The AllTrails stats don’t reflect this, but it came up in numerous comments/posts while researching.
4. Lost Lake
- Location: Mount Hood National Forest
- Swimming: yes
- Hike-in required: no
- Adjacent campground: Lost Lake Resort & Campground
- Boating: non-motorized boats only
- Boat ramp: yes
- Boat/equipment rental: kayak, paddleboard, pedal boat, rowboat, and fishing gear rentals available at the boat house from Memorial Day through mid-October
One of few natural Oregon lakes and one of the deepest near Mt. Hood, Lost Lake is a tranquil haven for outdoor recreation.
Take the 3.2-mile Lakeshore Trail around the lake, enjoy the views from picnic tables or benches at one of many viewpoints, or get on the water in a kayak or John boat. There’s also a general store and grill, so you don’t even have to bring much!
Fun fact: there’s another Lost Lake in Oregon that “disappears” every spring, draining into a hole under the surface created by a lava tube. That one is in the Willamette National Forest.
5. Sparks Lake
- Location: Willamette National Forest
- Swimming: yes
- Hike-in required: no
- Adjacent campground: 22 first-come, first-served campsites around Sparks Lake’s shore are accessible only via boat or hiking; nearby Soda Creek Campground has 10 reservable sites open from Memorial Day through late September
- Boating: permitted with a maximum speed of 10mph
- Boat ramp: yes
- Boat/equipment rental: none
Sitting in the shadows of South Sister, Broken Top, and Mount Bachelor, it’s easy to see why Sparks Lake is a favorite of landscape photographers. On especially calm days, the reflections of the mountains in the lake are stunning.
Aside from enjoying the large, shallow lake (only 10 feet at its deepest!) in a boat, visitors can fish for trout, hike one of several trails, or relax in the picnic areas.
Due to partial winter closures on the Cascade Lakes Highway, Sparks Lake is inaccessible between November and May.
6. Trillium Lake
- Location: Mount Hood National Forest
- Swimming: yes
- Hike-in required: no
- Adjacent campground: Trillium Lake Campground, open mid-May through late September
- Boating: non-motorized boats only
- Boat ramp: yes
- Boat/equipment rental: kayak and SUP rentals available at the dam through Mt. Hood Outfitters
Arguably one of the most popular Oregon lakes, Trillium Lake is gorgeous and easily accessible. It’s open year-round, providing opportunities to paddle, fish, and swim in the summer and explore on snowshoes or cross-country skis in the winter.
Trillium Lake is also a hikers’ paradise, with a partially-accessible 2-mile trail encircling the lake and access to several other Mt. Hood-area trails.
7. Diamond Lake
- Location: Umpqua National Forest
- Swimming: yes
- Hike-in required: no
- Adjacent campground: Diamond Lake Campground, reservable June through September and accessible in April, May, September, and October
- Boating: permitted with a maximum speed of 10mph
- Boat ramp: yes
- Boat/equipment rental: Diamond Lake Resort rents a variety of boats with and without motors, and offers fishing charters
Diamond Lake is all about trout fishing, but there are plenty of other activities to enjoy year-round. Just north of Crater Lake, it’s a bit out of the way, so it draws mostly locals. And it’s huge (over 3,000 acres!), so even on busy days, it’s easy to find an uncrowded spot.
The namesake resort has multiple restaurants and a variety of lodging types, and offers guided horseback rides and fishing trips. You can also rent outdoor equipment including mountain bikes, snowshoes, cross-country skis, and even snowmobiles and snow tubes.
8. Clear Lake
- Location: Willamette National Forest
- Swimming: technically yes, but only with a wetsuit — the water is dangerously cold!
- Hike-in required: no
- Adjacent campground: Coldwater Cove Campground, open May through October
- Boating: non-motorized boats only
- Boat ramp: yes
- Boat/equipment rental: rowboat rentals available at Clear Lake Resort
As its name implies, Clear Lake is exceptionally clear. A volcanic eruption formed the pristine 175-foot-deep lake, redirecting the flow of the McKenzie River and sinking an entire forest. Much of it is still perfectly preserved underwater, making Clear Lake a top freshwater dive site!
Aside from diving, there are endless activities to enjoy. Hike, bike, or snowshoe along the McKenzie River National Recreation Trail, paddle around the lake, go fishing, or relax at the resort restaurant.
9. Elk Lake
- Location: Deschuttes National Forest
- Swimming: yes
- Hike-in required: no
- Adjacent campground: Point Campground, Little Fawn Campground
- Boating: yes
- Boat ramp: yes
- Boat/equipment rental: canoes, kayaks and paddle boards rentals available at Elk Lake Resort
Nestled in Oregon’s Cascade Range, Elk Lake is a serene alpine retreat located 30 miles southwest of Bend. Known for its crystal-clear waters and surrounded by pine forests and snow-capped peaks, the lake offers a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts.
Popular activities include fishing for trout and kokanee salmon, kayaking, paddleboarding, and exploring nearby hiking trails. There are even some nice public access beaches here.
10. Maxwell Lake
- Location: remote northeast Oregon, 18 miles from the town of Lostine
- Swimming: yes
- Hike-in required: yes
- Adjacent campground: Shady Campground
- Boating: not allowed
- Boat ramp: no
- Boat/equipment rental: none
Tucked deep in the remote Eagle Cap Wilderness, Maxwell Lake isn’t nearly as accessible as many other Oregon lakes. Several hours from any major town, no services, and untouched nature make this a perfect getaway for those who genuinely enjoy unplugging.
All visitors need to get a free, self-issued Eagle Cap Wilderness Permit at the trailhead.
Hike to Maxwell Lake
- Distance: 7.6 miles out and back
- Elevation gain: 2,450 feet
- Difficulty rating: Moderately strenuous
- View the trail notes
The Wallowas are known for challenging terrain, but this hike has a manageable length. The trail crosses the Lostine River and Maxwell Creek, both which can be dangerous when water levels are high, and the final mile is an unrelenting (but worthwhile!) uphill climb.
11. Wallowa Lake
- Location: Wallowa State Park
- Swimming: yes
- Hike-in required: no
- Adjacent campground: Wallowa State Park Campground
- Boating: permitted
- Boat ramp: yes
- Boat/equipment rental: kayak, SUP, and pontoon boat rentals available at the Wallowa Lake Marina, open May through September
Often referred to as Oregon’s Little Switzerland, Wallowa Lake is jaw-droppingly beautiful. In Wallowa State Park at the base of the Wallowa Mountains, it makes a great basecamp for exploring the Eagle Cap Wilderness.
State park facilities and proximity to Joseph means there are amenities galore, including a beach, picnic areas, boat rentals, and family-friendly activities like go-karts and mini-golf.
12. Devils Lake
- Location: Willamette National Forest
- Swimming: yes
- Hike-in required: no
- Adjacent campground: none
- Boating: non-motorized boats only
- Boat ramp: no
- Boat/equipment rental: none
Just north of Sparks Lake (see #5) is a picturesque alpine gem knowns as Devils Lake. This stunning lake, surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Cascade Range, offers a tranquil escape for nature enthusiasts.
The crystal-clear waters of Devils Lake reflect the surrounding lush forests, creating a breathtaking panorama that changes with the seasons. During the summer, the lake becomes a hub for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing, while its hiking trails cater to those seeking panoramic views.
13. Green Lakes
- Location: central Oregon, 27 miles west of Bend
- Swimming: yes
- Hike-in required: yes
- Adjacent campground: 22 dispersed campsites surrounding Green Lakes
- Boating: not allowed
- Boat ramp: no
- Boat/equipment rental: none
One of the best hikes near Bend, there’s no question about how these three lakes got their name. The sparkling green lakes are even more impressive, thanks to dramatic South Sister and Broken Top towering over them.
Many people make the mistake of heading back after seeing the first (lower) lake. Go just a bit further, and you’ll see all three. Explore the loop trail that encircles them and offers amazing views.
You’ll need a Central Cascades Wilderness Permit if you’re visiting between June 15 and October 15, and if you’re backpacking and staying the night any time of year.
Hike to Green Lakes
- Distance: 9 miles out and back
- Elevation gain: 1,180 feet
- Difficulty rating: Moderate
- View the trail notes
Don’t let the distance deter you — the Green Lakes Trail has a tremendous reward-to-effort ratio. The trail gradually climbs, but is mostly wide and level, plus has lots of shade.
You’ll be in the Three Sisters Wilderness almost immediately, and the route has water views most of the way. First it’s Fall Creek, then Fall Creek Falls and several smaller waterfalls.
14. Waldo Lake
- Location: Willamette National Forest
- Swimming: yes
- Hike-in required: no
- Adjacent campground: Islet Campground, Shadow Bay Campground, and North Waldo Campground
- Boating: electric motors only (no gas) permitted with a maximum speed of 10mph
- Boat ramp: yes
- Boat/equipment rental: none
Waldo Lake is one of the biggest natural Oregon lakes (nearly 10 square miles of water surface area and 420 feet deep!). It’s also said to be among the clearest in the world, with visibility up to a whopping 150 feet!
One of the biggest draws here is boating or paddling the lake, specifically to explore its many small islands. Launch from the North Waldo campground and island-hop the day away!
Bonus: Waldo Lake is just 45 minutes from McCredie Hot Springs!
15. Paulina Lake
- Location: Newberry National Volcanic Monument
- Swimming: yes
- Hike-in required: no
- Adjacent campground: Paulina Lake Campground and Little Crater Campground
- Boating: permitted with a maximum speed of 10 mph
- Boat ramp: yes
- Boat/equipment rental: kayak, paddleboard, canoe, and patio boat rentals available at Paulina Lake Lodge, open May through September
Speaking of Oregon hot springs… One of the biggest perks of visiting Paulina Lake is that it has a “hidden” natural hot spring at one end, right along the shore!
You can drive right up to the lake, but you’ll need to hike just over one mile along the edge of the lake to reach the hot springs. Don’t worry, it’s a very easy and super scenic trek!
Aside from the hot spring, Paulina Lake is unique in other ways. It’s a twin, adjacent to East Lake, and sits in the basin of a collapsed caldera.
16. No Name Lake
- Location: central Oregon, 24 miles east of Bend
- Swimming: no
- Hike-in required: yes
- Adjacent campground: none adjacent
- Boating: not allowed
- Boat ramp: no
- Boat/equipment rental: none
Easily one of the most beautiful central Oregon lakes, No Name is a popular summer destination. It’s glacier-fed, so it’s a gorgeous turquoise green color in late summer, once all the ice and snow has melted.
There are three access points to No Name Lake, and they all have pros and cons.
Broken Top trailhead, which we detail below, is the shortest route but involves a VERY rough road requiring 4-wheel-drive and high clearance.
Todd Lake involves the longest hike, but the easiest drive and longest season in terms of access.
The Tam McArthur route is an 11-mile hike starting from Three Creeks Lake, and the trail is somehow difficult to follow.
Regardless of which option you choose, you’ll need a Central Cascades Wilderness Permit between June 15 and October 15. Outside of those dates, all hikers need to get a free self-issued permit at the trailhead.
Hike to No Name Lake
- Distance: 5.5 miles out and back (via Broken Top trailhead)
- Elevation gain: 1,400 feet
- Difficulty rating: Challenging
- View the trail notes
All three hikes to No Name Lake are challenging, but worth it! Whichever route you take, once you reach the lake, keep going around its edge for half a mile (trust us!). There’s a jaw-dropping viewpoint on a ridge that overlooks the lake and Three Sisters.
If you’re unable to secure a permit for one trailhead, try the other two. Broken Top is the shortest route and has the most permits available, but it’s also the most popular.
17. Owyhee Lake
- Location: Lake Owyhee State Park
- Swimming: yes
- Hike-in required: no
- Adjacent campground: McCormack Campground and Indian Creek Campground (reservations only mid-April through late October)
- Boating: permitted
- Boat ramp: yes
- Boat/equipment rental: none available onsite, but there are outfitters in Ontario, OR
Owyhee Lake is in extreme eastern Oregon, in a desert canyon most people don’t associate with the PNW. The lake itself is 53 miles long and provides a variety of outdoor recreation, including boating, camping, and fishing.
Because Owyhee Lake is a reservoir, summer water levels may fluctuate dramatically. Check with the park directly or the Bureau of Reclamation website for current conditions.
18. Strawberry Lake
- Location: Strawberry Mountain Wilderness
- Swimming: yes
- Hike-in required: yes
- Adjacent campground: Strawberry Mountain Campground
- Boating: not allowed
- Boat ramp: no
- Boat/equipment rental: none
This might be one of the most underrated Oregon lakes. Tucked deep in the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness within the Malheur National Forest, Strawberry Lake is surrounded by mountains and has great hiking, waterfalls, and camping.
The lake itself is gorgeous, but you’ll want to check out Little Strawberry Lake and the area surrounding it also.
Hike to Strawberry Lake
- Distance: 6.8 miles out and back
- Elevation gain: 1,368 feet
- Difficulty rating: Moderate
- View the trail notes
From the Strawberry Basin trailhead at the campground, you’ll be at Strawberry Lake in less than a mile. One mile further, and you’ll arrive at 50-foot Strawberry Falls.
You can turn back at the falls, or continue on to either Little Strawberry Lake (one mile past the waterfall, a 6.8-mile round-trip total) or Strawberry Mountain (10.3 miles total).
19. Lucky Lake
- Location: Dechuttes National Forest
- Swimming: yes
- Hike-in required: yes
- Adjacent campground: none
- Boating: not allowed
- Boat ramp: no
- Boat/equipment rental: none
The Lucky Lake Trail is a scenic hiking trail offering picturesque views of the Cascade Mountains, to reach a small pristine lake, just off the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway. The trail provides outdoor enthusiasts an opportunity to explore nature, spot wildlife, and enjoy the tranquility of the Cascade Range.
Hike to Lucky Lake
- Distance: 3.6 miles out and back
- Elevation gain: 450 feet
- Difficulty rating: Easy
- View the trail notes
Tips for visiting Oregon lakes
- Bring bug spray. One of the only drawbacks to visiting Oregon lakes in the summer is the incredible amount of mosquitoes and other biting insects.
- Wear water shoes. You never know what types of terrain you might encounter at lakes, so it’s wise to wear water shoes.
- If a hike is involved, wear sturdy shoes. The trails leading to many lakes, and surfaces around them, are often muddy and/or slippery. Leave the sandals or sneakers at home and wear your sturdiest hiking shoes, ideally waterproof.
- Get a Northwest Forest Pass. Many Oregon lakes and trailheads require day-use passes, so it’s worth it to get the $30-per-year Northwest Forest Pass.
- Pack layers. Between frequent rain, widely varying temperatures in the mountains, and the general unpredictability of PNW weather, it’s a good idea to pack layers. Bring a rain jacket and good sun hat, at minimum.
- Practice Leave No Trace. We wrote an entire guide deep-diving into exactly what this means, but essentially, leave nature better than you found it.
What to pack for visiting Oregon lakes
- Hiking daypack
- Hydration pack and/or water bottle
- Sun protection: sunscreen, sunglasses, hat
- Bug spray (we prefer the natural stuff)
- Camera and tripod (this is our favorite for hiking and outdoor adventures)
- Hiking boots/shoes or Chacos if you prefer sandals
- Comfortable hiking clothes (dress in layers!)
- Swimsuit (if you plan on taking a dip!)
- Quick-dry towel
- A picnic blanket (we love our Rumpl blanket, you can use whatever you prefer to sit on!)
- Plenty of hiking snacks
You may also like…
- Breathtaking Oregon Lavender Farms
- Best Hikes in Oregon
- How to Visit the 7 Wonders of Oregon
- Hood River Wineries to Visit in Northern Oregon
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We want to hear from you!
Have you been to any of the Oregon lakes on this list? What was your experience like? Which is your favorite? Comment below and let us know!