Water Activities
With over 150 lakes and 14 Wild & Scenic Rivers, Mt. Hood National Forest abounds with water-related recreational activities.
Restrictions
- Personal watercrafts, or PWCs, are prohibited in all bodies of water in Mt. Hood National Forest. PWCs include Jet Skis, Sea-Doos, WaveRunners, etc.
Water Safety
Unlike swimming pools, wild bodies of water like rivers and lakes can have currents, underwater hazards, and very cold temperatures even in the summer heat. When you're having fun on or around natural water, remember these safety precautions:
- Always wear a life jacket and make sure it fits properly.
- Go with a buddy, even if you are an experienced swimmer.
- Keep a close eye on children in the water at all times.
- Know the risks of natural bodies of water.
- Swim and boat sober.
Resources
Drowning is the second leading cause of death for children under 4 years old and the fourth leading cause of death for those 5-18 years old. Please take water safety seriously.
- Water Safety - Red Cross
- All About Life Jackets
- Water safety at Portland Metro's parks and natural areas
Boating - Motorized
Motorized boats are allowed on 5 lakes in Mt. Hood National Forest. The maximum speed limit is 10 mph. Learn more about boating regulations on the Oregon State Marine Board website.
Motorized boats and other watercrafts powered by gas are permitted on:
- Clear Lake
- Timothy Lake
- Lake Harriet
Watercrafts powered by electric motors are permitted on:
- Laurance Lake
- Rock Creek Reservoir
Personal watercrafts are prohibited in all bodies of water in Mt. Hood National Forest.
Boating - Non-Motorized
Floating, canoeing and kayaking on a forest lake or river are all great ways to spend a warm summer day. If you are new to boating, there are licensed outfitters and guides prepared to show you how! Learn more about boating regulations on the Oregon State Marine Board website.
Popular places to recreate on the water include Clackamas River, Timothy Lake, and Trillium Lake. Trillium and Timothy Lake offer some paddle sport rentals during the summer.
Only non-motorized vessels are permitted on Mt. Hood National Forest lakes except the 5 lakes listed above.
Swimming
Swimming is allowed in Mt. Hood National Forest waters unless posted otherwise. There are several popular swimming holes across the Forest.
Water Safety
Brr! Water temperatures are generally extremely cold, even during a hot summer day. Protect yourself and your family and learn how to identify and prevent hypothermia.
River currents and eddies can be very powerful. Avoid swimming in unfamiliar waters to prevent drowning. Be sure to always have a life vest for children.
Visit Oregon Health Authority's dashboard for real-time data from emergency departments on summer-related injuries and illnesses.
Harmful Algae Blooms: When in Doubt, Stay Out!
During warmer weather, some bodies of water can get Cyanobacteria/Harmful Algae Blooms. Cyanobacteria can cause illness if ingested by humans and especially pets. Don't go into water that looks foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green, blue-green or brownish red. A good rule of thumb for you and your pet is: When in Doubt, Stay Out!
Learn more about Harmful Algae Blooms on the Oregon Health Authority website.
Search for Water Activities Opportunities
Armstrong Campground
Badger Lake Campground
Black Lake Campground & Day Use
Camp Ten Campground (Olallie Lake)
Carter Bridge Campground
Carter Bridge Day Use
Clackamas Lake Campground
Clackamas Lake Historic House
Clear Lake Campground
Clear Lake Day Use