Situated in southern Oregon, close to the crest of the Cascade Range, Lake of the Woods is a naturally occurring lake that is renowned for its scenic beauty, abundant recreational activities, and rich historical background. The lake spans 1,146 acres and measures roughly 2.75 miles in length and 0.75 miles in width. Its highest depth is 55 feet, while its average depth is 27 feet. Named by Oregon pioneer Oliver C. Applegate in 1870, Lake of the Woods has been a part of significant events, including becoming part of the Cascade Forest Reserve in 1898 and later transferring to the Rogue River National Forest in 1932.
The lake’s watershed, spanning 26 square miles, is a testament to the diversity of life. Characterized by a mixed conifer forest and receiving 30-44 inches of precipitation annually, this area is a haven for a variety of species. The diverse forest, including Douglas fir, white fir, ponderosa pine, lodgepole pine, and aspen, creates a dense canopy that supports a vibrant ecosystem. Most of the lake’s water comes from groundwater seepage, supplemented by three tributary creeks: Rainbow Creek, Billie Creek, and Dry Creek.
Lake of the Woods offers a variety of recreational activities throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, canoeing, boating, and water skiing in the summer. Hiking, biking, and horseback riding are popular on the trails near the lake. During winter, the lake is a destination for ice fishing, and the nearby Great Meadows area attracts snowmobile riders and cross-country skiers.
The lake has been a focal point for community and recreational development. The first residential use permit was issued in 1916, and the area saw significant improvements in the 1920s and 1930s, including the construction of campgrounds and a resort. By the 1950s, the lake was a bustling hub of activity, with thousands of visitors each weekend. Today, there are 218 summer homes, two campgrounds with 124 campsites, and three organizational camps around the lake. A year-round resort offers accommodations, restaurants, a general store, a marina, and various recreational facilities.
Lake of the Woods is also an important ecological area, providing habitat for various fish, bird species, and mammals. The lake’s fishery is managed by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, which maintains populations of brook trout, black crappie, brown bullheads, yellow perch, largemouth bass, blue chub, and tui chub through natural production and stocking. Birdwatchers can spot grebes, ducks, geese, common loons, osprey, and bald eagles, while the surrounding forest is home to mule deer, black-tailed deer, elk, black bears, coyotes, bobcats, and cougars, among other wildlife.
The Forest Service has been proactive in its efforts to preserve the lake’s water quality and minimize shoreline erosion. These measures, including closing roads near the lake, funding road drainage improvement projects, promoting soil conservation education, encouraging cabin owners to install new septic systems, and restricting development through the creation of the Dry Creek Riparian Reserve, are a testament to the commitment to preserving this natural wonder.
Overall, Lake of the Woods remains a beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts and a vital part of the Fremont-Winema National Forest. It offers a special fusion of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and historical significance.