Detroit Lake

Sixty miles east of Salem, on the North Santiam River, is a sizable reservoir called Detroit Lake. It is one of the most beautiful lakes in Oregon. The Detroit Lake State Recreation Area on the northeast shore is the finest location to access this 3,500-acre lake.

Over 250 campsites, a tourist center, and boat ramps are available in the recreation area. All overnight campers have used the campground's flushing bathrooms and showers, which are available to both RV and tent campers.

A number of additional campgrounds are run by the nearby Willamette National Forest around the lake. The most distinctive campground is perhaps Piety Island Campground in the center of the lake, which is only reachable by boat. Cove Creek Campground and Southshore Campground are two other well-liked Forest Service campgrounds.

Detroit Lake is a popular place for fishing. Due to the numerous surrounding hatcheries, rainbow trout are frequently targeted by anglers. Two marinas in the neighboring city of Detroit provide boat rentals as well as fishing equipment and bait.

Location: Linn / Marion counties, Oregon