This pristine 142-148 acre lake sits at 3,000-3,100 feet elevation in the Willamette National Forest, approximately 30 minutes west of Sisters (4 miles south of Highway 20 junction on Highway 126) and 55 miles east of Eugene. Created about 3,000 years ago when molten lava from neighboring Sand Mountain flowed down and dammed the McKenzie River, Clear Lake is the headwaters of the McKenzie River. The lake’s exceptional transparency – with visibility up to 200 feet – has earned it recognition as one of the clearest lakes in Oregon and one of the best freshwater diving spots in America. Maximum depth approximately 175 feet.

Water Conditions & Skill Level Beginner-friendly. Calm, flatwater conditions ideal for all paddlers. Year-round average water temperature 43°F (just above freezing) – swimming not recommended due to near-freezing temperatures. NO motorized boats of any kind allowed – creates peaceful, quiet paddling environment. Wind can pick up during the day. Shallow grade shoreline in some areas. Water is crystal clear with stunning turquoise-blue color, especially vivid around the edges.

Access & Launch Two boat ramps available: most popular at Clear Lake Resort (north end), and quieter option at Cold Water Cove Campground (south end) to avoid crowds. Small launch fee if bringing your own watercraft ($5 at resort). Some campsites at Cold Water Cove have lake access, but steep lava rock paths make it challenging to carry kayaks/paddleboards – boat ramp is easier. McKenzie River mouth at south end of lake – DO NOT attempt to paddle down to the river mouth. Warning signs posted for good reason.

What You’ll See Extraordinary underwater forest – ancient 80-foot tree trunks preserved in the cold water, frozen in time from 3,000 years ago when the lava flow inundated the forest. Ghostly tree skeletons visible from surface, especially around edges where water is clearest. Stunning views of Three Sisters peaks and Mount Washington on clear days. Basaltic lava flows and 3,000-year-old lava fields surrounding the lake. Mix of lush forest (Douglas fir, Western hemlock, maple, alder) and rocky lava terrain. Abundant waterfowl including Canadian geese, wood ducks. Eagles and osprey frequently spotted. Beautiful flowering plants unique to the area. Fall foliage spectacular in late September-October with brilliant autumn colors. Nearby: Sahalie Falls and Koosah Falls (short hike from campground), Blue Pool (2 miles south on McKenzie River Trail).

Best Times to Go Open year-round, but best May through October after snow melts. Summer offers warmest weather, though water remains cold. Arrive early (morning) for best parking, quiet time, and to avoid wind that picks up later. Fall (mid-October through November) brings spectacular autumn colors and fewer crowds. Mid-October particularly beautiful with calm water and colorful leaves. Campgrounds typically open early June to mid-October depending on snowpack. Winter and spring can have snow at this elevation. Parking can be very full by 1pm during peak summer season.

Amenities Clear Lake Resort (north end): Rowboat and kayak rentals available first-come, first-served (day-of only, cannot reserve ahead). Restaurant/lodge open spring through autumn (hours: 11am-3pm Monday-Thursday, 8am-5pm Friday-Sunday). Grab-and-go grocery items, fishing gear, apparel. Cabins and yurts available for overnight stays (no dogs in yurts, $15 per pet fee in cabins, 2 dog max). Showers available. $5 launch fee for bringing your own watercraft. Cold Water Cove Campground (USFS, south end): 31-34 campsites (31 singles, 3 doubles), accommodates vehicles 18-55 feet depending on site. 6 tent-only sites. Several sites offer lake views, some waterfront, but no sites directly on shoreline. Vault toilets (very clean, well-maintained), hand pump drinking water (excellent tasting), picnic tables, fire rings, trash collection. Fish cleaning station at boat ramp. No hookups. Amphitheater with nature talks. 5-mile Clear Lake Loop Trail circles lake (relatively flat, good for hiking and mountain biking). Connects to 26-mile McKenzie River National Recreation Trail. Limited to no cell service.

Fees & Notes Cold Water Cove Campground: $21-$46 per night. Reservations available up to 6 months in advance through Recreation.gov – highly recommended as fills quickly during peak season. Some first-come, first-served sites available. Day-use/boat launch fee for non-campers. Extra vehicle fees apply. Scan and Pay available for FCFS sites (cash or check, no refunds). Clear Lake Resort: launch fee for bringing own watercraft. Fire restrictions common during summer months – campfires may be prohibited, plan accordingly. Managed by Linn County Parks & Recreation. Part of the McKenzie Pass-Santiam Scenic Byway area. Water feeds drinking supply for Eugene. Excellent fishing for rainbow, brook, and cutthroat trout – check ODFW stocking schedule. Popular with freshwater divers (multiple wetsuits advised due to frigid temperatures). Leave No Trace principles essential. Limited cell service – download Recreation.gov app before arrival if using Scan and Pay.