Warm-weather activities are in full swing in Oregon, and families are out and about throughout the week. My wife and I love all the things to do in this beautiful state. From the Portland metropolitan area, it’s a quick drive to the coast, mountains, or Central Oregon. The drive from Portland down to Ashland is pretty smooth, too. Not only that, but there is just so much to do in all of these towns.
We spent our weekend taking the kids to Powell’s Books, playing at local parks, and spending a relaxing day at the Oregon Zoo. It was perfect for a basic weekend. Our family also likes to shake it up a lot. Some weekends are mellow, and other weekends are more on the go. Just like some weekends we stay in town, and other weekends we head out a little farther. Oregon is perfect for those short trips just outside of town.
The Detroit Lake State Recreation Area is a great, low-stakes getaway for family camping. Located at the base of the canyon mountains, there are nearly 300 camping spots along this forest-ringed canyon reserve. The lake, which is 9 miles long, is wonderful for water sports such as fishing and boating. Not only that, but Detroit Lake takes reservations up to 6 months in advance and is open year-round. So, if you are more of a hardcore camper, you can set up your own spot in the middle of winter.
There are many amenities here, like having 6 mini cabins (sleep 3, heater, microwave, mini fridge). Four open Oct. 1–April 30; two remain open until May 31. They also have 107 full-hookup sites, 96 tent sites with nearby water, flushing toilets, hot showers, and designated swimming areas. Detroit Lake makes for the perfect family-style camping site.
Another really cool feature at Detroit Lake is the official Ranger Station. My family and I stop by this place every year, and it is so cool. Inside is filled with detailed maps, including large-scale ones on the walls and fixed on tables. They also have a super fun gift shop area with items perfect for both children and adults.
When we were there a couple of weeks ago, one of the rangers gave our toddler a free awesome goodie bag filled with kid-friendly toys and activities. If you find your way over in the Detroit Lake area, make sure to stop by the Ranger Station. It is a surprisingly cool place to see.
The Detroit Dam regulates Detroit Lake, which is well worth visiting, too. Completed in 1953, it provides flood control, hydroelectric power, and recreation by creating the Detroit Lake. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers operates this gravity dam and provides fantastic scenic views. Walking across it is truly breathtaking, as you are not only witnessing the beauty of Oregon’s wild country but also standing on a structure built by impressive human ingenuity.
The dam itself stretches over 1,500 feet and is usually open and free to visitors. This dam also has a generating capacity of 118,000 kilowatts and is a vital part of the 13-dam Willamette Valley Project, which is designed to prevent devastating seasonal flooding in the Willamette Valley area.
A fun fact is that the Detroit Dam doesn’t work on its own. It has a lesser-known buddy dam, the Big Cliff Dam, three miles away. Since the Detroit Dam constantly adjusts its water releases for electricity generation, it creates erratic surges. Big Cliff Dam was built to catch those surges and act as a buffer. The water levels there can radically fluctuate by up to 24 feet in a single day.
As we approach the Oregon summer, families are putting together their game plan of what they want to do. Detroit Lake is a perfect overnight or multi-night trip for the family. Its easy access means a less stressful drive that doesn’t involve intensive map reading or worrying about losing cell phone reception. The signs here are clear, and camping setups are painless too.
It is removed enough from town for a quiet, remote getaway, yet close enough that you don’t dread the long drive back home. For those who like to fish or want to try it out for the first time, this lake is fully stocked and ready for you.
What I enjoy most about Detroit Lake is its simplicity. You don’t need to be a seasoned outdoorsman to make this trip. It doesn’t require much strategy either, just a family ready to do some camping and breathe in that crisp Oregon air.
Alex is a devoted husband and father born and raised in Portland, Oregon. He is a professional artist, author, and advisor for both Yale and Harvard University’s arts departments. His books, ‘Selling Leonardo: The Art World’s Greatest Scandal’ and ‘Holy Ghost: Decoding Leonardo da Vinci’s Final Painting’ are available wherever books are sold.