Skip ahead to check conditions
Cooper Creek Reservoir is located just east of Sutherlin, convenient for Douglas County residents and only a one-hour drive south for Eugene-Springfield visitors. The 166-acre reservoir impounds Cooper Creek for flood control and provides some of the drinking water for Sutherlin residents. Popular activities here include fishing, boating, waterskiing and jet-skiing, paddling, and hiking or bicycling.
To paddle around the entire lake takes about 4 miles in a lovely forested canyon with a few coves to explore. Beware that you may also be sharing the water with motorized boats and personal water crafts on this narrow lake.
The West Day Use area on Edgewater Drive provides a nice setting for families and beginners. There is a small no-wake area to paddle around while non-paddlers can enjoy the large grassy picnic area by the shoreline.
The East Day Use area on Cooper Creek Road, on the other hand, has a smaller space for setting up by the shoreline and it is located next to the “Personal Watercraft Zone.” Nevertheless, this may be a more desirable launch point if the winds pick up from the west and you want to cruise on your way back.
Good to Know:
- It appears that parking is free currently, although this may be subject to change as there was previously a $4 parking fee.
- Cellular phone reception is poor or no service available here.
- Open year-round
- Several inlets here are designated slow no-wake zones.
Launch Sites:
Cooper Creek Reservoir- West Day Use Area
- Parking fee: none
- Launch type: boat ramp, dock, shore
- Restrooms: flush
This is a large paved parking lot with room for trailers. The day use area includes picnic tables and a grassy area by the water.
Cooper Creek Reservoir – East Day Use Area
- Parking fee: none
- Launch type: paved boat ramp
- Restrooms: vault
Note that the parking for cars without trailers is on the upper level. There is very little space here for picnicking. The launch is next to the swim area but also next to a busy Personal Watercraft area.
Additional things to do:
- Hike or bike the Cooper Creek Reservoir Trail from the day use areas. This popular trail now completely encircles the lake (as of May 2022) thanks to the dedication and hard work of many volunteers. The result is an inspiring example for what can be accomplished if we make enjoying the healthy outdoors a priority.
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.
- Park updates: check with Douglas County Parks for questions regarding the park.
- Weather: Check the weather forecast including the wind conditions.
- 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.
Oregon Paddling 