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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.
At a Glance
| Usage: | Heavy |
|---|---|
| Closest Towns: | McKenzie Bridge, OR |
| Passes: | Some trails and day use sites require a Recreation Pass |
| Information Center: | McKenzie River Ranger District |
General Information
Directions:From McKenzie Bridge, OR, travel east on Highway 126 for 29.5 miles to Santiam Pass. Turn right, heading south on Big Lake Road (Forest Road 2690). Follow Big Lake Road for 3 miles to Big Lake.
General Notes:
Nearby:
- Santiam Pass Motorized Recreation Area (area is unavailable)
- Pacific Crest Trail
- Big Lake Trail Area
- Hoodoo Ski Area
- Ray Benson Snopark
- Sand Mountain Lookout
- Mt. Washington Wilderness
Boating Regulations & Boating Safety: Oregon State Marine Board manages boating regulations. Visit their website for boating regulations and safety information. They also have links to information about water levels in the reservoirs.
Fishing Regulations & Information: Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife manages fishing regulations. Visit their website for information on fishing seasons and fishing licenses.
Reservoir and River Level Information: From the US Army Corps of Engineers.