Oregon Locations – Page 3 – Oregon Paddling

Leaburg Dam at McKenzie River

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Enjoy this no-wake flatwater portion of the beautiful McKenzie River at Leaburg Dam and the photo-ops of the iconic covered bridge known as Goodpasture Bridge. Leaburg Dam is located only 22 miles east of Springfield and is used by EWEB to provide hydroelectric power to some Eugene homes.

There are two public launch sites along this stretch of the river from Leaburg Dam to Goodpasture Bridge. The boat ramp next to Lloyd Knox Park is the favored starting point for an out-and-back paddle, going against the mild current first and then getting a little boost on the return. The Goodpasture Boat Ramp is located on the other end, very close to the Goodpasture Covered Bridge.

Good to Know:

The cellular signal is poor or fair.
The water is always cold here, so this is probably not the best choice for first-timers or someone who is prone to falling in. In the warmest months of July and August, for example, you can anticipate water temperatures in the low 60’s.
There is a waterway restriction of slow no-wake 5mph for this entire route.

Launch Sites:

Lloyd Knox Park

Parking fee: none
Launch type: boat ramp, gradual shore
Restrooms: vault
Open: year round

McKenzie River Leaburg Dam parking — gravel parking lot and bathroom

Leaburg Dam launch site McKenzie River — gravel parking lot and bathroom

Driving Directions:

From OR-126, turn at Leaburg Dam Road and cross over the 1-lane bridge. Immediately after crossing the bridge, turn left into the small gravel parking lot next to to the dam.

Goodpasture Boat Ramp

Parking fee: none
Launch type: boat ramp
Restrooms: vault

Goodpasture Covered Bridge at McKenzie River Leaburg Dam — facing Leaburg Dam

Additional things to do:

Visit the Leaburg fish hatchery, which is located next to the dam.
Enjoy a picnic at Lloyd Knox Park that is also maintained by EWEB.

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 and pay attention to the wind.

Water Temperature: Read the cold water safety page if you need more background info.

Check the flow: This is usually an easy out-and-back paddle during the months of April to October when the flow is less than 5000 cfs. (It has been noted, however, that this paddle can get difficult going upstream when it is> 12,000 cfs.)

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.

Alton Baker Canoe Canal

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The Alton Baker canoe canal is a side channel of the Willamette River in Eugene, OR which allows for a fun out-and-back paddle without the rapids. Situated just across from the Autzen stadium where the Oregon Ducks play, this place is a popular in-town option for those seeking a quick paddle and connection with nature. And it is a suitable paddling spot for first-timers and families with children.

Good to Know:

It can get busy in the summertime with -SUP’ers, kayakers, and anglers- but it is just large enough to find your space here (and parking).
Although it is open year-round, the best times to paddle here are usually May-October.
Cellular reception is good.

Canoe Launch

Parking fee: none
Launch type: primitive bank
Restrooms: none
Open: year-round

This parking lot can hold ~35-40 cars. Locate the canoe launch sign and a short gravel and dirt path leading to the canoe canal access.

Driving Directions:

Navigate to Leo Harris Parkway and locate the small gravel lot located directly across the street from the Autzen Stadium “O.”

parking lot entrance — entrance to parking lot

Canoe canal parking lot — entrance to parking lot

Alton Baker Park Duck Ponds

Parking fee: none
Restrooms: flush toilets on west side of Day Island Road (across the street)
Open: year-round

duck pond at Alton Baker park — alternate launch from duck ponds at Alton Baker park

Driving Directions:

Park near the disc golf course at Alton Baker Park off Day Island Road and start at the duck ponds. This is a larger parking lot and it is near restrooms but there is about a 100-yard walk from the parking lot to the pond and the paddle from here involves 2 portages.

Alton Baker canoe canal — opening up to the pond

Additional things to do:

There are plenty of other things to do at Alton Baker park if you want to make an entire day of it. One really cool and unique feature is the solar system placed to scale along a multi-use path. You would start at the large model of a Sun at the park and then continue along the Ruth Bascom Riverbank Path System (South Bank path) until you get to Pluto about 3.5 miles away.

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 and pay attention to the wind.

Water Temperature: Read the cold water safety page if you need more background info.

Water flow: The nearby Willamette River generally flows at below 4000 cfs during the summer months which allows for an easy paddle at the canal. At much higher flows, such as when it is >12,000 cfs, the current can be quite swift.

check water flow

Questions: contact Willamalane Park District at 503-434-7463

Game Days: Note that the canoe launch parking lot is located right across the street from Autzen stadium, which makes it inaccessible during Oregon Ducks games and Emeralds events. You may consider the alternate launch from the Alton Baker Park duck pond when this parking is inaccessible. Check the Ducks game schedule and the Emeralds schedule (season is April to Sept).

Concerts at Cuthbert: Parking can also be difficult when there are events at Cuthbert Amphitheater. Here is the schedule of events.

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.

Siuslaw River Water Trail

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The Siuslaw River begins its journey close to Cottage Grove in the southwestern part of the Willamette Valley, picking up speed as it flows through the Coast Range, ultimately emptying into the Pacific Ocean in Florence. For year-round flatwater paddling opportunities, the tidal estuary between Mapleton and Florence really hits the spot.

Good to Know:

The Siuslaw River is tidally influenced up to 26 miles, which is just above Farnham Landing. Tidal charts should be consulted to avoid getting stranded when exploring channels and to avoid paddling against strong currents when closer to the ocean.
Watch out for boat wake along the mainstem, especially during the fishing season.
Best times: Spring to Fall, watch for stronger river current after heavy rains.
Watch for afternoon winds, especially closer to to the ocean.

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 and pay attention to the wind.

River flow and tidal schedules- Look for paddling suggestions based on the river flow and tidal schedules, a premium feature, on the SWT Planner App

Tide: Check the tide table here.

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.

Crane Prairie Reservoir

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Crane Prairie Reservoir is located just above Wickiup Reservoir along the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway and less than an hour’s drive from Bend. The name aptly describes its former existence of flat prairie land that attracted a large population of cranes each year when the Deschutes River flooded the area. This shallow reservoir contributes water for irrigation and when it is full has an average depth of only 11 ft.

There are 23 miles of shoreline including several deep feeder creeks to explore. Views of wildlife are abundant here- osprey, bald eagles, pelicans, and herons, to name a few- as are the views of Mt. Bachelor, South Sister, and Broken Top in the background. This is also a very popular location for fishing.

Beginners can paddle here but should be mindful of the prevailing wind conditions and watch out for the plentiful underwater tree snags.

Good to know:

The entire lake is restricted to 10 mph.
Open after the lake thaws out and road access is cleared, usually May to October.
The water level is kept high in order to protect the Oregon spotted frog habitat.
Mosquitoes and other insects can be a problem, esp. June-early August
Check for toxic algae blooms as this reservoir has been known to get them.
The cellular signal is fair.

Directions:

There are four US Forest Service campgrounds with boat access and an additional boating access point as well as a private resort. The links on this map can provide more details.

Check before you go:

Weather: Check the weather forecast for the area and check the wind conditions.

Check: for water advisories.

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.

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.

Siltcoos River

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The Siltcoos River Water Trail takes you from the largest lake on Oregon’s coast, through towering sand dunes and forests and brings you to a special stretch of ocean where snowy plovers nest on protected beaches. Along the way, there are tricky logjams that challenge your skills of Twister and a dam portage with a kayak slide (you know, for grownups). Sound interesting enough?

There is very little elevation change along the length of the Siltcoos River, so the current is usually mild enough that it can be paddled in either direction even for beginners. The wind can be a factor though, especially in the afternoons near the ocean and at Siltcoos Lake.

This is a popular river trail so you will likely encounter other kayakers and paddleboarders on the water (and also river otters).

Good to Know:

Beware that if the dam is open, such as during the rainy season October -May, the faster river flows can make the log strainers quite dangerous and should be avoided.
Preferably, time your paddle so that you reach the beach at or near high tide to avoid bottoming out for that last mile.
Standup paddleboarders, consider using shorter river fins to paddle the lower section from the dam to the ocean.
During the protected snowy plover season (March 15- Sep 15), beach access is limited to just the wet sand and dogs are not allowed to get out on the beach at all.
Cellular reception is poor here. Consider downloading a map prior to going out.

Highlights from Lake to Ocean:

Additional things to do:

Camping- Get an early start on the Siltcoos River. Tyee Campground and Waxmyrtle Campground have access to the Siltcoos River.
Fishing and more paddling at Siltcoos Lake
Hiking- get nice views of the Siltcoos River and access the beach on the Waxmyrtle trail

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 consider the wind conditions.

Tides-Tidal reports should be consulted to make sure there is enough water depth to navigate the lower portion. Premium members on the SWT Planner App can get timing recommendations. Also, watch for very high tides that may affect your passage through the logjams.

Parking fees– For Westlake, you can purchase the Lane County parks day pass online or at a local vendor, or use the self-pay envelopes at the park. For Lodgepole and Waxmyrtle, purchase a NW Forest day pass online or buy at a local vendor.

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.

Carter Lake

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Carter Lake is a small coastal dune lake located just 11 miles south of Florence. There is a 10mph speed restriction for the entire lake which makes this a great beginners or family-friendly lake. You can paddle around 2 miles of shoreline. The major factor to watch for is that it can get very windy here when the wind picks up and it usually blows in from the north in summer. The water appears quite clear and is nice for swimming, too.

There is a day use area with a small sandy beach tucked away in the Carter Lake campground. It has a few parking spots but requires the NW Forest Pass or equivalent. The nearest restrooms and water are located within the campground itself. The boat ramp for Carter Lake is located on the opposite side of the lake and can be reached off of the Highway 101, south of the Carter Lake campground.

Good to know:

By late summer in dry years, the water level may get too low to paddle the entire length.
The campground and day use area is open 5/1-9/30.
The boat ramp off Hwy 101 is open year-round.
Carter Lake is managed by the Siuslaw National Forest division.
The cellular reception here is poor.

Directions:

The Carter Lake day use area is located within the Carter Lake campground. Drive to the end of the loop to the small day use parking lot.

The Carter Lake boat ramp is located directly off Hwy 101, south of the campground entrance.

Additional things to do:

Stay at the Carter Lake campground where you may get a spot that backs up to sand dunes or, if you can manage the steep access, you can get a spot overlooking the water.

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 and pay attention to the wind. A lot of summer afternoons typically have northern winds which can whip through this lake.

Park status: Check on the Carter campground area status.

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.

Lake Marie

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Lake Marie is a sweet little coastal lake located near Winchester Bay. With only a 1-mile long shoreline and the absence of motorized boats, Lake Marie is suitable for early beginners and paddling with children. There is also a small beach area near the parking lot, a 1 mile tree-covered hiking trail around the lake, and the nearby lighthouse to keep everyone in the group busy.

The water is clear and warms up enough for swimming in the summertime. This lake might also be an option if the conditions are not optimal for paddling at one of the larger nearby lakes or river.

Good to know:

Watch for woody debris and snags, especially near the shore line.
The cellular reception is good or very good here.
Similar to other small lakes in the area, expect water temperatures in the low 50s during the winter and low to mid 70s in the summer.

Directions:

Navigate to Umpqua Lighthouse State Park from Hwy 101. Continue to parking near Lake Marie Trailhead.

Additional things to do:

Stay at the Umpqua Lighthouse SP campground which not only has tent and RV sites, but also cabins and deluxe yurts. There are some trails leading from the campground to the lake.
Hike around Lake Marie which is only 1 mile, plenty of shade for sunny hot days, and plenty of views of the lake.
Tour the Umpqua River Lighthouse which is managed by the Umpqua Valley Museums.

Check before you go:

Weather: Check the weather forecast and pay attention to the wind.

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.

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.

Eel Lake

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Eel Lake is a 347-acre coastal lake near Reedsport that is made up of two long and deep arms outlined by the forested slopes of the Coast Range. There is no need to dodge speeding boats or consult tide tables for this one. It is actually the largest coastal lake in Oregon where there is a 10mph speed restriction for the entire lake. And there are about 11 miles of undeveloped forested shoreline to explore on these clear waters.

This is a beginner-friendly lake under most conditions. The main limitation for paddlers would be the strong winds that can start as early as noon. You may be able to use it to your advantage, however, to assist on your return (for winds coming from the north in the summertime). There are also plenty of coves to duck into to avoid the stronger gusts and provide some interesting exploration.

This is also a family-friendly location due to all of the amenities at the Tugman State Park Day Use Area. There are restrooms, a swimming beach, large grassy area for picnics and games, and a playground.

Length: ~3 mi RT left arm, ~5 mi RT rt arm
Paddle Time: ~1h 12min left arm, ~ 2H + rt arm*

Parking fee: free
Launch: boat ramp, ADA accessible kayak launch, shore

Restroom: flush
Cell signal: fair

*Time is roughly based on leisurely paddling pace of 2.5mph. Wind, current, equipment, and paddler’s fitness and motivation can change this estimate.

Good to know:

You won’t find any eels at Eel Lake. Apparently, eels are not found in Oregon but there are lamprey. You can learn more about the lamprey migration for spawning at the Eel Lake Trap structure at the day use area.
Winds pick up after noon, especially from the north in summertime.
There is a 10mph speed restriction at this lake

Paddle Route:

From the boat launch, head left to go up the shorter arm where you will see some old pilings remnants at the end. Or head right to go up the longer arm on the right. You will pass the small swimming and sandy beach area , then turn left(north) to continue up the arm.

Directions:

GPS coordinates for Eel Lake at Tugman State Park Day Use Area: 43.60398, -124.17691

Additional things to do:

Check out the fish ladder and special lamprey ramp at the Eel Lake Dam.

Hike or bike on the 3-mile length dirt trail- find the trailhead to the right (east) of the Eel Lake Trap structure.
Camp at Tugman State Park campground– there are sites for tents, RVs, and yurts; access the lake via a short walk or drive from the campground to the adjacent day use area.

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.

map download

Weather: Check the weather forecast and pay attention to the wind forecast.

Water Temperature: Read the cold water safety page if you need more background info.

Prepare accordingly for the water temperature. According to the Oregon State Parks information, the water is typically 50F-55F in winter and 67-71F in summer.

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.

Coffenbury Lake at Fort Stevens

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Coffenbury Lake is a natural dune lake located within Fort Stevens State Park in Warrenton where you can spend a day or a week here. Just within the state park, you can paddle at the lake, hike or ride your bike to a beach with a shipwreck, visit a historic military fort and battery, and play on a 23-hole disc golf course with beautiful views of the Columbia River. It’s a unique combination for sure, but it checks all the boxes.

Beginners and first-timers should feel comfortable paddling on this narrow lake where the shoreline is never far away and there is a 10mph speed limit. You will see mostly other kayaks, SUPs, and canoes at this lake. Also, this shallow lake does warm up in the summer for swimming.

Coffenbury Lake has a North and South Day use area. Both have ample paved parking, boat ramp and dock and shoreline access to water. The South day use lot, however, has more picnic tables near the shore.

Length: ~2 miles
Paddle Time: <1 h*

Parking fee: day use fee at kiosk or Oregon State Parks pass or camping reservation
Launch: boat ramp, dock, shallow entry

Restroom: flush
Cell signal: fair

*Time is roughly based on leisurely paddling pace of 2.5mph. Wind, current, equipment, and paddler’s fitness and motivation can change this estimate.

Good to know:

Mosquitoes can be a nuisance here, with peak activity around June-July.
Open year-round

Directions:

Once you enter Fort Stevens State Park on Peter Iredale Road, pass the campgrounds, then turn left for Coffenbury Lake Day Use Area. Continue straight ahead for North Day Use Area or turn left to drive further down to South Day Use Area.

Additional things to do:

Seaside is just a 20-minute drive south and you can walk along the promenade, watch the bubble guy do his thing, visit the aquarium, paddle on the river trails, and eat at some good restaurants.
Reserve a site at Fort Stevens State Park campground for your next camping trip. As one of the nation’s largest campgrounds, there is enough to see and do for days. There are sites for RVs, tents, yurts, and even deluxe cabins.

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 and pay attention to the wind conditions.

Parking fee: if you are planning a visit to the park for just the day, consider purchasing the Oregon State Parks annual pass beforehand. You can use the pass for paddling at some excellent places such as Estacada Lake at Milo McIver SP, Cleawox Lake at Jessie M. Honeyman SP, and Lake Billy Chinook at Cove Palisades SP, just to name a few.

Mosquitoes– this site gives the schedule for mosquito control at Fort Stevens State Park.

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.

Fall Creek Reservoir

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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.

Additional things to do:

Cascara Campground first-come first-served sites and Fisherman’s Point Campground (group site) offer primitive camping experiences with lake access at the far northeast arm of the lake when water level is high enough.

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.