Big Lake Area
Big Lake is 225 acres in size and is situated on the historic Santiam Wagon Road. It was the first resting place for early travelers heading west. A youth camp operates under special use permit on the east side of the lake. Volcanic peaks and cinder cones visible from the lake include Mt. Washington, Sand Mountain, Hoodoo Butte, Hayrick Butte and Three Fingered Jack.
Big Lake is popular for motor boating and water skiing, as well as camping, picnicking, fishing and swimming. Access to wilderness trailheads is located nearby. The nearby Santiam Pass Dispersed Motorized Recreation Area is open to Off-Highway Vehicles. A boat launch is located in the Big Lake Day Use Area (fee required). Two campgrounds are situated on the lake.
On the western shore of Big Lake at the top of Santiam Pass, surrounded by alpine fir, hemlock and lodgepole pine, campers enjoy views of the lake with the beautiful M
The day use site is located in the Big Lake Campground the western shore of Big Lake at the top of Santiam Pass
This small 11 site tent-only campground lies on the western shore of Big Lake at the top of Santiam Pass and is a hub of activity during the summer months.
Pacific Crest Trailhead at Big Lake provides access to the Pacific C
Located in the high elevation ecosystem, Patjens Lake trail passes through a mixed forest of lodgepole pine, western hemlock, and alpine fir.