The 7 Best Oregon Lakes for Swimming

With over 1,400 lakes, Oregon is full of recreational areas. This state is known for its outdoor activities, such as fishing and hiking. But you may be wondering about outdoor swimming. 

Oregon experiences cold, wet winters and warm, dry summers, with a partly cloudy atmosphere year-round. The warm season begins at the end of May and lasts until mid-September. And July is the hottest month of the year, with highs over 80℉, on average. 

But even with temps rising during the summer, most Oregon lakes stay pretty frigid year-round, especially alpine lakes (of which there are many). So, swim with caution!

Check out these seven picks for the best Oregon lakes for swimming and discover additional activities to do there.

1. Lost Creek Reservoir

This reservoir is located on the Rogue River in a mountainous canyon northeast of Medford. While it may not be the most talked about lake in Oregon, Lost Creek Reservoir features shallow water near the shoreline, which gets warm enough to swim in during the summer. You can also make a weekend of it and stay at the nearby campground. Don’t forget your fishing pole!

2. Crater Lake

Crater Lake was formed 8,000 years ago and sits on Mount Mazama in Southern Oregon inside an ancient volcanic crater. It is known for its pristine blue water, featuring no sediment or mineral deposits. To protect the water from contamination, no boats, tubes, rafts, waders, or scuba gear is allowed. However, there is a small swimming area. You must take the Cleetwood Cove Trail to access the swimming beach. The water is very cold, only warming up to 60 degrees during the summer. 

3. Crane Prairie Reservoir

Located about 40 miles southwest of Bend, Crane Prairie Reservoir is known for its birding, beautiful scenery, and rainbow trout fishing. But it’s also a popular spot for swimming, boating, camping, hiking, and tubing. There are also campgrounds next to the water, so you can plan a weekend summer vacation. While the water is clear and refreshing, stay up to date on swimming bans prior to traveling. Occasionally, this lake gets overactive algae, which can cause closures.

4. Wallowa Lake

This ribbon lake in the Wallowa Mountains lies east of La Grande. It’s a popular spot for vacation homes and lake excursions. People from all over the state visit this recreational lake for fishing, camping, hiking, kayaking, paddle boarding, and swimming. Because it’s an alpine lake, the water stays pretty chilly, even in the summer. But that doesn’t stop people from splashing and having a good time. Both ends of the lake have shallow sandy areas perfect for wading and swimming.

5. Sparks Lake

Twenty-five miles west of Bend is Sparks Lake, which sits along the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway in the Deschutes National Forest. This lake is one of the most popular outdoor recreational areas in the state. Apart from the spectacular views of Broken Top and South Sister, Sparks Lake provides hiking trails, kayaking, canoeing, and primitive camping. The sunset photography is also amazing. The water is shallow but cold, so instead of a luxurious swim, you may be taking a quick dip!   

6. Blue Lake

Located in Fairview in Multnomah County, Blue Lake Regional Park is over 100 acres and just 20 minutes from Portland. Blue Lake is inside the park and is a natural body of water perfect for fishing, boating, and swimming. The park also features disc golf, a playground, picnic tables, a BBQ area, and a children’s splash pad. True to its name, the lake is clear and blue. There is a swimming beach available for people five years and older. 

7. Devil’s Lake

This small lake is on the east side of Lincoln City, along the Central Oregon Coast Range. Devil’s Lake is a popular area for hiking, picnicking, paddle boarding, fishing, boating, and swimming. And there are shallow swimming beaches with sandy bottoms that are perfect for splashing and relaxing during the summer. The water can still be pretty cold during the warmer months, though. It is also one of the only campgrounds located in the city, so it can get crowded during the summer.  

Summary of the 7 Best Oregon Lakes For Swimming