Wickiup Lake, OR
Wickiup Lake is situated in the Deschutes National Forest, about 55 miles southwest of Bend, Oregon.
Size: It's a sizable lake with a surface area of approximately 11,000 acres, making it one of the larger lakes in the region.
Fish Species: The lake is known for its variety of fish species, including brown trout, rainbow trout, kokanee salmon, and largemouth bass.
Most Popular Fish to Catch: Anglers often target kokanee salmon and brown trout, which are among the most sought-after species in the lake.
The reservoir's relatively warm water and cooler deep channels generate some of the best fishing in Central Oregon. The area is renowned for its brown trout, often reaching 20 pounds, with normal catches in the 5-to-8 pound range. The reservoir also sustains good numbers of kokanee and coho salmon and decent populations of rainbow trout, brook trout, whitefish, and chub.
(More on catching Kokanee and Brown Trout below)
Camping at Wickiup Reservoir in central Oregon offers a variety of options, from developed campgrounds with amenities to primitive dispersed sites.
Developed Campgrounds:
Gull Point Campground Location: Situated on the western shore of Wickiup Reservoir.
Reservoir Campground Location: Located next to Wickiup Reservoir along the Cascade Lakes Highway. Status: Currently closed until further notice.
Dispersed & Primitive Camping: For those seeking a more rustic experience, dispersed camping is available around Wickiup Reservoir:
Road #090: Offers great primitive camp areas along the water's edge of Wickiup Reservoir. No camping is allowed below the high water mark. Camping is limited to 30 days per calendar year. eugenecarsey.com
Road #4370: Features some established campgrounds that charge a fee. Wyeth Campground is located 1/8 mile from Hwy 42 on Road #020.
RV Camping Options If you're traveling with an RV, several nearby campgrounds offer suitable accommodations:
La Pine State Park: Provides a wide range of amenities for RV camping, including full hookups, a dump station, and easy access to hiking trails and water sports on the Deschutes River. CampChimp
Cascade Meadows RV Resort: Nestled in the heart of the Deschutes National Forest, this resort offers a serene and picturesque setting for RV camping, with well-maintained sites and modern amenities. CampChimp
Boating & Recreation: Wickiup Reservoir allows both motorized and non-motorized boats. There are multiple boat launches, with two at the lakeside campgrounds and a third on the reservoir’s eastern banks.
Wildlife Watching: The Deschutes National Forest surrounding Wickiup Reservoir is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and numerous bird species, making it a great spot for wildlife enthusiasts. Wikipedia
Camping: There are several campgrounds around Wickiup Lake, offering both tent and RV camping options. These spots are popular during the fishing season.
Hiking: The area around Wickiup Lake provides opportunities for hiking, with trails that offer scenic views of the lake and surrounding forests.
Boating: Boating is popular on Wickiup Lake, with opportunities for both motorized and non-motorized watercraft. It's a great place for leisurely boating and fishing.
Boat Rentals: While specific rental facilities can vary, there are usually options available for boat rentals at nearby marinas or resorts.
Wildlife Watching: The Deschutes National Forest surrounding Wickiup Lake is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and numerous bird species, making it a great spot for wildlife enthusiasts.