Clear Lake Oregon
Discover Oregon's clearest lake, featuring an ancient submerged forest and serene mountain beauty. Perfect for kayaking and hiking.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best light for photos
Clear Lake Oregon
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Oregon's clearest lake, featuring an ancient submerged forest and serene mountain beauty. Perfect for kayaking and hiking.
"The water is as clear and blue as I always dreamed!"
🚗 Parking fills fast!
Arrive early, especially on weekends. A Northwest Pass may cover the $9 fee.
🛶 Book water rentals ahead
Kayaks and rowboats are popular. Reserve yours in advance for a full day of fun.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Crystal Clear Waters
Clear Lake
Experience the breathtaking clarity of the lake, revealing an ancient submerged forest below. Truly a sight to behold!
+1Submerged Forest Exploration
Clear Lake
Marvel at the eerie beauty of ancient trees preserved beneath the icy-clear surface. A unique natural wonder.
Rowboat or Kayak Adventure
Clear Lake Resort
Glide across the pristine waters in a rented rowboat or kayak for an unforgettable perspective of the lake.
+1Clear Lake Loop Trail
Near Clear Lake
Hike this scenic 4.6-mile trail for stunning lake views and potential wildlife sightings, especially in spring.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Arrive Early!
Book Cabins & Rentals in Advance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking fills fast!
Arrive early, especially on weekends. A Northwest Pass may cover the $9 fee.
🛶 Book water rentals ahead
Kayaks and rowboats are popular. Reserve yours in advance for a full day of fun.
🥶 Water is chilly!
The clear water is beautiful but very cold, even in summer. Be prepared!
🏠 Cabins book up fast!
For summer stays, book your cabin up to 9 months in advance.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking fills fast!
Arrive early, especially on weekends. A Northwest Pass may cover the $9 fee.
🛶 Book water rentals ahead
Kayaks and rowboats are popular. Reserve yours in advance for a full day of fun.
🥶 Water is chilly!
The clear water is beautiful but very cold, even in summer. Be prepared!
🏠 Cabins book up fast!
For summer stays, book your cabin up to 9 months in advance.
🌲 Hike the loop trail
Enjoy a 4.6-mile hike with beautiful views and potential wildlife.
📱 Spotty cell service
Expect limited cell service; some is available near the store.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Clear Lake Oregon's stunningly clear waters and the unique submerged forest, calling it magical and breathtaking. The opportunity to rent kayaks and enjoy the serene natural beauty is a major draw. However, be prepared for cold water, limited cell service, and the need to book accommodations and rentals well in advance, especially for weekend visits.
"I stayed here Oct 1-3, unfortunately it was just after the gov shutdown and very little staff around. This is a charming, yet rustic place. I booked a cabin with a full kitchen and bathroom. When I arrived, I found the oven was broken and would not turn off. Thankfully, I was able to snag a ranger right before she was leaving. She ended up disconnecting the oven, but I still had access to the stove for cooking. Yes, you have to bring everything: sheets, cookware, dishes, etc. For me, it was worth it to have access to the lake and trails. I did try the restaurant for breakfast one morning. Delicious burrito and very friendly employee. I will definitely be back. I didn’t have time to rent a boat, but next time I will!"
Jodi McKean
"Came to spend the day here and it was the best! $9 fee to park and spend the day but we didn’t have to pay since the staff advised that our Northwest Pass would suffice. We rented a kayak for $25 an hour or you can get one for $50 for the whole day. We got to paddle all around the lake within an hour. Water is so pretty but super freezing. You can also grab lunch here as there is a small cafe. Advise to get here early because parking does seem to fill up."
Dani Marie
"My partner and I stayed here for the weekend and it was magical! The cabin we stayed at had a cooking stove and a bunk bed with a comfortable mattress. You can get some service near the store, and there is a great hike around the lake. The lake water is the best part! You have to see i let for yourself!"
Tien Tran
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Clear Lake is located in the Willamette National Forest, near Sisters, Oregon. It's accessible via Highway 20. Many visitors drive from Eugene or Bend. Be aware that road conditions can vary, especially outside of summer months.
Yes, Clear Lake Oregon is accessible by car. The Clear Lake Resort area has a parking lot, though it can fill up quickly on busy days.
The closest major cities to Clear Lake Oregon are Eugene (to the west) and Bend (to the east). It's roughly an hour's drive from Bend.
Public transport options directly to Clear Lake Oregon are very limited. It is best to travel by car. Consider ride-sharing if available from nearby towns.
From Portland, take I-5 South towards Eugene, then Highway 126 East towards Redmond/Bend. Continue on Highway 20 East towards Sisters and follow signs for Clear Lake. The drive is approximately 3-4 hours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is typically a day-use fee of around $9 to park at Clear Lake Oregon. However, a Northwest Pass may cover this fee.
Clear Lake Resort generally operates during the summer months. Specific hours can vary, so it's best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, you can rent kayaks and rowboats at Clear Lake Resort. Rentals are popular, so booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for full-day rentals.
While reservations are not typically required for day visits, it's wise to arrive early, as parking lots can fill up. For cabin rentals, reservations are essential and should be made months in advance.
A Northwest Pass is often accepted and can cover the day-use parking fee at Clear Lake Oregon.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, swimming (though the water is very cold!), hiking the Clear Lake Loop Trail, and simply relaxing by the stunningly clear water.
While the water is incredibly clear and inviting, it is also very cold year-round. Swimming is possible but can be brief for most!
The Clear Lake Loop Trail is a 4.6-mile moderate hike that circles the lake, offering beautiful views of the water and surrounding forest. It's a great way to experience the natural beauty.
Yes, fishing is a popular activity at Clear Lake Oregon. You can fish from the shore or from a boat.
Clear Lake Oregon is a wonderful destination for families. Kids will love the clear water, the opportunity to see submerged trees, and the chance to rent a kayak or rowboat. The loop trail is also manageable for families.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a small cafe at Clear Lake Resort where you can grab lunch. It's a convenient option if you're spending the day or staying at the resort.
Absolutely! Bringing your own picnic is a great idea, especially if you plan to spend the whole day. There are beautiful spots to enjoy a meal with a view.
The cafe at Clear Lake Resort typically offers casual fare like sandwiches, snacks, and drinks. It's perfect for a quick bite.
The nearest full-service restaurants are in the town of Sisters, Oregon, which is a short drive away. Sisters offers a variety of dining options.
There isn't a major grocery store directly at Clear Lake. It's advisable to stock up on supplies in Sisters or another nearby town before heading to the lake.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer hues. The clear water is stunning in any light, but these times enhance its beauty.
The submerged forest is incredibly unique and photogenic. The reflections on the water, especially during sunrise or sunset, and the surrounding lush forest also make for beautiful shots.
Drone usage may be restricted in national forest areas. It's essential to check current regulations with the U.S. Forest Service before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake and forest. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water, enhancing clarity. Waterproof gear is a good idea if you plan to get close to the water.
Dedicated photography tours are not commonly advertised for Clear Lake Oregon. However, the natural beauty makes it a fantastic spot for self-guided photo expeditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The Clear Lake Loop Trail is a manageable hike for families, providing beautiful scenery and a chance to stretch their legs. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as dining options are limited to a small cafe. Remember that the water is very cold, so supervise children closely if they decide to dip their toes in!
💰 Budget Travelers
While cabin rentals are popular, consider camping near Clear Lake Oregon for a more affordable lodging option. Hiking the loop trail is a free and rewarding activity. If you have your own kayak or paddleboard, you can save on rental costs.
📸 Photographers
Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive lake and forest vistas. A polarizing filter can enhance the water's clarity and reduce glare. Be prepared for the cold if you plan to get close to the water's edge for those perfect shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Submerged Forest
+1Visitors often describe the sight as magical and breathtaking, feeling like they've stepped into an enchanted realm. The visibility is so exceptional that you can often see the details of the submerged trees from the surface, especially when kayaking or paddleboarding. It's a key reason why many travelers seek out this pristine spot in Central Oregon.
+1When exploring, remember that the water is very cold, so while swimming is possible, it's best enjoyed in short bursts. The best way to appreciate the submerged forest is often from a boat or by peering down from the shore on a calm day.
Activities on and Around the Lake
For those who prefer to stay on land, the Clear Lake Loop Trail is a must-do. This 4.6-mile hike offers scenic vistas of the lake and surrounding forest, and you might even spot some local wildlife. Fishing is another favored pastime, with opportunities to cast a line from the shore or a boat.
While the lake itself is the main draw, the surrounding Willamette National Forest provides opportunities for further exploration. Remember that booking rentals and cabins in advance is crucial, especially during peak season, as they are in high demand.
Planning Your Stay: Cabins and Lodging
It's important to note that cabins near Clear Lake Oregon get booked up very quickly, with some visitors reporting booking up to nine months in advance, particularly for popular times like Memorial Day weekend. If a cabin stay is part of your plan, prioritize making reservations as early as possible.
For those who prefer camping, there are also campgrounds near Clear Lake Oregon, though availability can also be competitive. If you're looking for lodging options further afield, the nearby town of Sisters offers hotels and other accommodations, but staying directly at the lake provides the most immersive experience.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit