Foster Reservoir – Sunnyside Day Use Area

Foster Reservoir is located in the foothills of the Cascade Range just east of Sweet Home. Like other reservoirs in the area, it is very popular for boating and jet skiing in the summertime. But if you don’t enjoy surfing wakes, you can go up either of two no-wake zone arms for a gorgeous wind-protected scenic paddle.

Foster regulates flow from Green Peter Reservoir and also impounds water from the South Santiam River for flood control downstream and hydroelectric power. You can read more info about the reservoirs and dams in the area here.

As a reregulating dam for Green Peter Reservoir, the water level at Foster is kept at a steady level during the summer and then drawn down starting late September. Even at low pool, you can still generally launch a paddlecraft from the Sunnyside day use area.

This post describes the water route from the Sunnyside Day Use area and up the northern arm, which is where the Green Peter Reservoir releases its flow.

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Paddle route: You can start out by paddling right to check ou the bridge then back in.

Paddling is possible up to the boulders

Turnaround and enjoy a little assist on the way back. In November, the current is very minimal. Just glassy water reflecting the fall colors.

Check before you go:

• Park status: Calkins day use area is managed by Linn County Parks.

• Water temps: Here is a graph of the water temperature trend during an entire year, just to give you an idea of what to expect in case you take a splash.

Note that the water can reach about 70F in September even though the water monitor shows much cooler waters.

• Toxic algae blooms: This temporary condition occurs at some of the area lakes in the summer and may affect your health if water or fish is consumed during these conditions. Get more info on how to tell if algae is harmful and watch for water advisories but also use common sense if you see water that doesn’t look right.