Detroit Lake
RV Guide
Introduction
Detroit Lake is a state park campground that can be found on the north shore of a canyon reservoir in the Cascade Mountains. This beautiful state park is surrounded by mountains, forests, and a lake. There is plenty of camping available whether you're in a tent or an RV.
One of the best things about this particular state park is the vast amount of activities that you can take part in. Whether you want to do something more relaxed, such as observing the wildlife, or you want something a little more intense such as hiking, you can find both of these things and more at Detroit Lake State Park.
There is a 2.7-mile hiking trail that runs around the perimeter of the campground. It is made of gravel and is easy enough for beginners to take a leisurely walk or experts to take an intense hike. There are also interpretive activities and junior ranger programs that are offered to the public from June until September.
Several different camping areas offer a wide variety of amenities. There are tent sites as well as RV camping sites all of which are pet-friendly.
RV Rentals in Detroit Lake
Transportation
Driving
When it comes to transportation and the Detroit Lake State Park, it’s crucial to know that there is a strict vehicle policy of no more than two vehicles per campsite. There will be an extra nightly fee for every extra vehicle.
Detroit lake is easily accessible via Oregon State Highway 22, also known as the North Santiam Highway. If you're traveling east to get there, you'll come upon many curves that require you to drive slowly.
You can easily fall the shoreline of the lake to get to the camping areas. This may be where you find the most traffic around the state park. If you’re coming from the west you’ll have to cross a bridge near the state park.
Often times, this bridge can be a little difficult to navigate. It’s also important to note that there are hairpin turns, which can be hard to navigate for RVs or vehicles with trailers.
Parking
Public Transportation
Campgrounds and parking in Detroit Lake
Campsites in Detroit Lake
Reservations camping
Detroit Lake Campground
If you’re taking your own RV here there are 107 full hook up campsites. All of which are easily accessible to the rest of the park, including restrooms and showers. If you don't need full hookups, 68 campsites have electric and water hookups.
Also, there are plenty of tent campsites, as well as trees to set up a hammock in if you're looking for a break from the RV. As you would expect in this part of the country, tall trees provide plenty of shade and privacy, so even though the amenities are comfortable, you'll feel as though you're in the middle of nowhere.
Oregon, along with the rest of the Pacific Northwest has beautiful camping areas all around the state, including all along the scenic Cascade Mountains
Seasonal activities in Detroit Lake
In-Season
Hiking
When you’re packing your RV to go to Detroit Lake State Park, don’t forget to bring your hiking boots. There are a variety of different trails for you to take on.
If you want to see gorgeous views of the Cascade Mountains, take a hike along the shoreline of the lake. If you’re looking for something a bit more intense, there are three miles of trails that have signs to teach you about the local history and the ecosystem of the park. If you’re looking for a really breathtaking view, consider hiking Tumble Ridge Trail to get to Dome Rock or Tumble Lake.
Watersports
There are a variety of water sports you can take part in during the summer months. One ever-popular option is to go water skiing. There are three boat docks where you can launch that are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. You can also take a kayak or canoe out on the water, and there are easy access points at nearly every loop of the campground.
Of course, you can always go swimming at one of the three designated swimming beaches. It may be important for you to know that there are no lifeguards available and that swimmers are swimming at their own risk. Sometimes the water can get a bit rocky due to the waves being created by the boats.
Fishing
Another thing to make sure you have in your RV before heading to Detroit Lake is your fishing equipment. You will have the choice of fishing from the shore as well as in a boat or kayak. If you’re fishing for keeps, you may find yourself catching rainbow trout, brown trout, and landlocked salmon as well as catfish. You may want to check the Oregon state regulations for information before you fish here.
Off-Season
Photography
No matter what season you visit the Detroit Lake State Recreational Area, you'll find several amazing views to photograph. There is the beautiful scenery of the Cascade Mountains, along with the forests that run alongside. Depending on your camera equipment, you may be able to get a photo of the snow-topped peak of Mount Jefferson. In the fall, you can see the variety of colors from the leaves changing that paint the mountainside.
Wildlife Viewing
Another absorbing activity that you can do here is to observe wildlife. Make sure you bring a pair of binoculars to be able to see all of the animals that this area has to offer. Just find a comfortable spot in the forest, along the trail or on the lake, and you're sure to see an abundance of wildlife. This can range from bald eagles, deer, elk, black bears, waterfowl, and more. Though it may be common sense, please don't approach any wild animal for your own safety.
Winter Sports
There's no shortage of fun things to do during the colder months of the year at Detroit Lake State Park. You can bring your cross country skis or snowshoes along the three-mile trail. The trail is relatively easy, no matter your skill level.
If you like snowmobiling, bring your machine to Tumble Ridge Trail. Depending on the thickness of the lake, you may also enjoy taking part in some ice fishing. It is essential to check online to see if the ice is thick enough to fish on safely.
