Fall Creek Reservoir

Skip ahead to check conditions

Fall Creek Reservoir, located about a 30-minute drive southeast of Eugene, is a rock-filled reservoir that provides flood control to the Middle Fork Willamette River as well as water recreation in the summer. The lake is made up of two arms, Fall Creek Arm to the north and Winberry Creek Arm to the south. In comparison to Dexter Reservoir which is only 4 miles away, Fall Creek Reservoir is set in deep forested canyons away from major roads and has generally less wind and warmer water (Dexter Reservoir receives cold water discharge from Lookout Point Reservoir).

The Winberry State Recreation Site is located on the south arm where Winberry Creek flows into the lake and provides the most launching options for paddling. There is plenty of room here for group gatherings and families to enjoy their day here, including a large paved parking area, many picnic tables facing the shore, barbecue and fire rings, and a swim beach. North Shore, on the other hand, has the low-water level ramp and a longer open season. And finally, the other day use areas that are located along the far end of the north arm are popular with paddlers when there is enough water.

Good to Know:

  • The cellular reception is poor or average here.
  • The water temperature reaches a comfortable 70s in the summer.
  • Under the new water control plan of 2021, the US Army Corps of Engineers plans to draw down the water level much deeper in the winter and delay filling into April or May in order to allow the fish to migrate. It is possible that in years where there is little rain falling after April, there may not be enough water to fill the Winberry arm or the far end of the Fall Creek arm.
Winberry Day Use Area
swim area at Winberry
facing the North Shore

Additional things to do:

Check before you go:

  • Maps and Suggested Routes: Download or print out a map before you go from the SWT Planner App. As a premium member, you can access an ever-growing library of paddling-related maps and suggested routes.
  • Weather: Check the weather forecast for the area and check the wind conditions.
  • Check the park status: on the Oregon State Parks website
  • Water Temperature: Read the cold water safety page if you need more background info. Here is the latest water temperature estimate.
  • 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.
  • Inspect your watercraft. You can help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species by wiping off any vegetation or debris from your watercraft and making sure it is dry each time before entering a new waterway.
  • PFD, Whistle, and Waterway Access Permit: In Oregon, all paddlecraft 10′ or longer (including SUPs, kayaks, and canoes) require a permit. You can purchase the permit online.

Beware that the routes and information on this site are just general guides and the best path may vary based on water level, obstructions, experience level, equipment, and other conditions. Paddlers are responsible for providing their own safety. Super Water Trails does not assume any liability.

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