Our ranger districts are still closed to in-person business. We continue to connect and serve the public virtually using websites, emails and telephone calls.
Warming shelters are closed for the 2020-2021 season due to COVID-19 restrictions.
For more information on recreating safely and answers to frequently asked questions, visit the COVID-19 Updates and Information page. To see what is open on the Willamette, scroll down to the conditions report on the Recreation page.
Contact(s):
Eugene Water & Electric Board, 541-685-7471
Carmen Diversion Reservoir and Forest Service Roads 750 and 751 will be closed beginning today and continuing through April 11, 2021. During the closure, the reservoir will be drained to allow the Eugene Water & Electric Board to address sinkhole concerns. McKenzie River Trail and the Ice Cap Creek Day Use Area will remain open.
Area(s):
Smith Reservoir Area, Lakes End Campground, Trail Bridge Campground
Date(s): Aug 22, 2017 - Mar 27, 2021
Contact(s):
Eugene Water & Electric Board, 541-685-7471
Beginning March 27, and continuing for the next five years, the Eugene Water & Electric Board (EWEB) will launch a project to retrofit, refurbish and upgrade equipment at its Carmen-Smith Hydroelectric facility along the upper McKenzie River, about 70 miles east of Eugene off of Highway 126.
In order complete the project safely, EWEB will close public access to Trail Bridge and Lakes End campgrounds, the Trail Bridge Reservoir boat launch and Smith Reservoir. In addition to the campground, reservoir and boat launch closures, Forest Service Roads 690, 730, and 689 will be closed to all public use during the reconstruction project. Trail Bridge and Smith reservoirs are popular fishing spots.
The five-year closure – through 2021 – is necessary because it is not possible to maintain safe public access through or around the construction areas.
You've decided to take a trip to the Willamette National Forest. Do you know what roads and campgrounds are open? What the fire restrictions are? Below are links to help you prepare and "Know Before You Go".