Explore The 5 Most Captivating Lakes on the Southern Oregon Coast
Ready for an adventure? Ready to just relax? The Southern Oregon Coast is a treasure trove of natural beauty, where the ocean meets pristine forests. It’s also home to some of the most unique and intriguing lakes you’ll ever find. Whether you’re into water sports, swimming, fishing, or just soaking up the views, these five lakes promise plenty of room to play, explore, and unwind.
Loon Lake For Family Gatherings
Just east of Reedsport, family-oriented Loon Lake Recreation Site offers a plethora of activities, including fishing, boating, kayaking, swimming, and paddleboarding. Surrounded by lush forests, Loon Lake’s picturesque setting is ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting, offering visitors an intimate connection to the great outdoors. Visitors can relax on the warm, sandy beach and enjoy picnicking, horseshoes, barbecuing, and more.
For those wishing to stay, the recreation site offers campsites, while Loon Lake Lodge & RV Resort provides a range of accommodations, including cabins, yurts, and spacious RV and tent camping sites. All options promise abundant shade under old-growth trees.
Lake Marie For Peace and Tranquility
For a truly serene lake experience, head for Lake Marie, tucked away within Umpqua Lighthouse State Park. What makes this freshwater lake so special is that no motorized watercrafts are permitted! Surrounded by lush fir trees, Lake Marie’s glassy surface is perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or fishing, without the sound of pesky motors. A trail loops around the water, offering picturesque views and glimpses of native wildlife like deer and osprey.
For overnight stays, the area offers several options. The nearby Umpqua Lighthouse State Park features a well-maintained campground with yurt, tent, and RV sites. Or, if you prefer traditional lodging, cozy inns and vacation rentals are available in nearby Reedsport and Winchester Bay.
Floras Lake For Thrilling Flights
North of Langlois, Floras Lake is a windsurfing and kiteboarding paradise. Situated right on the coast, its unique wind conditions make it a favorite among thrill-seekers. If you’re new to the game—Floras Lake Windsports offer rentals and lessons. For a slower pace, paddleboarding and hiking the Floras Lake State Natural Area are wonderful alternatives.
Close-by, Floras Lake House Bed & Breakfast offers lakeside accommodations with breathtaking views. You’ll find camping in Boice Cope Park at Floras Lake and nearby Cape Blanco State Park.
Eel Lake For A Calm Interlude
Situated in Tugman State Park, Eel Lake, with a 10MPH speed limit and an accessible kayak launch is fantastic for water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and swimming. Anglers can take advantage of the boat launch and try their luck at catching bass, crappie, steelhead, salmon, or trout. For those who prefer to stay on land, a forested, ten-mile hiking trail winds along the lake’s edge, revealing quiet alcoves and chances to spot wildlife.
To extend your visit, Tugman State Park boasts well-maintained campsites for tents and RVs. Vacation rentals and inns are available in nearby Reedsport, and the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is less than a mile away.
Tenmile Lake For A Bit of Everything
Tenmile Lake near Lakeside is one of the largest lakes on the Southern Oregon Coast, with eight arms and more than 42 miles of shoreline. Wakeboarding, jet skiing, fishing, and boating are popular, thanks to its expansive waters and accessible kayak launch. The lake also boasts two waterskiing slalom courses. Relatively shallow, the lake’s warm water is perfect for summertime swimming. Wulfy Beach is a popular spot with a roped-off swimming area and picnic tables. And, with more than 60 species of birds regularly viewed from the lake, it’s a birdwatcher’s paradise.
Tenmile Lake hosts three camping facilities: North Lake RV Resort, Osprey Point RV Resort, and Tenmile Lake County Park and Campground. Each facility offers lake-view sites and convenient access to the water. If camping isn’t your thing, stay at Lakeshore Lodge, where all rooms boast a lake view.
Plan An Adventure You Won’t Regret
No matter which lake (or lakes) you choose to visit, the Southern Oregon Coast offers endless opportunities to experience life on the water, connect with nature, and create unforgettable memories. Whether you’re seeking thrilling water sports or peaceful moments by the shore, these coastal lakes are sure to inspire and delight.
**Header Image by Tim Hurlbut
