Category: Willamette Valley Area

Turner Lake

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Turner Lake, new to the water scene in 2020, is already quite popular for those who live near this southeast Salem area town of Turner. This is a converted quarry lake of about 70 acres that is now open to the public with a boat ramp and dock and facilities and more exciting development in the works. A creek from the east side empties into it as well as stormwater from the private HOA development on the north end.

Only non-motorized boats or electric motors are allowed and the entire lake is limited to 5mph, making this a kid-friendly and beginner-friendly place to try out paddling. Also, kayak and SUP rentals are available for rent on-site during the summer.

Good to know:

  • The city of Turner manages this lake. Check here for latest parking fees and opening hours and other info.
  • Residents receive a parking pass. Nonresidents pay parking fees Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend.
  • There is a boat ramp and dock.

Directions:

Check before you go:

[ventus width=”100%” height=”300px” radius=”10px” lat=”44.821″ lon=”-122.964″ zoom=”10″ layer=”wind” scale=”F” units=”mph” marker=”true” forecast=”false” time=”now].

  • 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.

Cottage Grove Reservoir

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Cottage Grove Reservoir, set in the rolling hills at the south end of Willamette Valley, is a close drive from Eugene and only 1 hour from Roseburg. As with the other Willamette Valley dam projects operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers, it is a popular place for boating and other water sports in the summertime. The water temperature warms up early in the season and reaches a comfortable upper 70s by summertime.

When it comes to launching your paddlecraft, Cottage Grove Reservoir provides several options. Lakeside Park features a low-water boat ramp and spacious beach day use area but tends to be the busiest. On the opposite side of the reservoir, you’ll discover Shortridge Park, a smaller day-use area that grants shoreline access. It’s particularly popular among families who enjoy leisurely floating in the protected cove. Lastly, Wilson Creek Park awaits at the far southern end of the lake. While it may receive fewer visitors due to its location, it boasts a cozy day-use area with a swim beach and sits adjacent to the tranquil no-wake inlet area.

Paddling from Wilson Creek Park to the inlet where the Coast Fork Willamette River flows is typically a peaceful hour-long roundtrip, turning soon after passing under a road bridge. When the winds pick up though, especially in the afternoons, it can make the return more challenging. A paddle around the entire teardrop-shaped reservoir would take approximately 2 hours (5+ miles).

*Time is roughly based on a leisurely paddle pace in typical conditions and includes breaks for longer distances. Wind, current, equipment, and the paddler’s fitness and motivation can greatly affect this estimate.

Good to Know:

  • Cellular signal is generally poor or fair here.
  • It can get choppy here when the winds pick up or with boating activity.
  • The water temperature warms up earlier here and can reach a comfortable upper 70s F in the summer.
  • Waterway restrictions: the inlet south of Wilson Creek Park is a slow no-wake zone.

Launch Sites:

shortrige park view
facing Short Ridge Park
facing inlet

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.
map download
  • Weather: Check the weather forecast and pay attention to the wind.
  • 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.
  • Water Temperature: The water temperature warms up in May and reaches a comfortable upper 70s in the summer. Read the cold water safety page if you need more background info.
USGS Water-data graph for site 14152500
Coast Fork Willamette River at London, OR stream monitor at inlet
  • Water Level:
USGS Water-data graph for site 14153000
Lakeside boat ramp 745 ft. , Wilson Creek Park boat ramp 779 ft.
  • 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.

Foster Reservoir

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Foster Reservoir, situated in the scenic Cascade foothills, can be reached within an hour’s drive east of both Eugene and Salem. It comes as no surprise that during the summer season, the reservoir thrives with activity, attracting anglers and water enthusiasts of all kinds. The reservoir boasts two arms, designated no-wake zones, a big attraction for paddlers.

There is a campground located at Sunnyside Park and at Edgewater RV Resort. And if you need rentals during the summer season, visit Lewis Creek County Park.

Good to Know:

Foster Lake
no-wake arm Foster Lake
Foster Lake waterfall
Foster Lake
Foster Lake
turnaround point
Foster Lake Sunnyside

More 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 and pay attention to the wind.
  • 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.

Cheadle Lake

Skip ahead to check conditions

Cheadle Lake is a 100-acre lake in Lebanon, OR filled by the waters of the South Santiam River. It was previously used as a mill pond but it has now been converted to a lake for the public to enjoy. The dredged material of its former life forms an island in the shape of what has been described as “three fingers and a thumb.”

Paddle through the thick pond vegetation in between the fingers and explore the old remnants of the logging pond. The water is clear and you can see the fish darting around amongst the vegetation.

  • Length: ~2.2 miles
  • Paddle Time: 53 min.*
  • Parking fee: none
  • Launch: boat ramp, dock
  • Restroom: flush
  • Cell signal: excellent

*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:

  • The boat ramp is open year-round.
  • Motorboats aren’t allowed here, unless it’s electric.
  • Be warned that you may encounter thick vegetation, especially within the fingers.

Paddle Route:

After launching from the boat ramp and dock, consider paddling this lake in a clockwise loop.

First, you will reach the far end of the lake where the inlet is. Then, you can paddle into each of the fingers. And finally, paddle along the outer border of the lake before returning to the ramp.

Cheadle lake boat launch
Cheadle lake restrictions
No swimming, electric motors only
Cheadle lake boat ramp
Parking lot and boat ramp
Cheadle lake dock

Driving Directions:

Other Things to Do:

  • Check out the walking trails: The North Shore Trail starts next to the boat ramp and is a popular 1.23 mile paved trail along the lake and Cheadle Park for a 2.46 out-and-back walk. The Island Trail is an additional loop along the fingers of the lake.
  • Participate in a community event put on by Build Lebanon Trails.
  • Go on a waterfall hike: McDowell Creek Falls County Park is less than half hour drive and you can visit 3 waterfalls on this scenic 1.7 mile hike.

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.
USGS Water-data graph for site 14187500
This monitor is located upstream, just prior to entering the canal.
  • 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.