Dorena Lake is located in Cottage Grove, Oregon, nestled in the foothills of the Calapooya Mountains. The reservoir and dam were completed in 1949 and work in tandem with Cottage Grove Dam for flood control, improving water quality, recreation, and conservation. Since the completion of the project, it has been estimated to have prevented over $3.4 billion in flood damage. Surrounded by scenic views, visitors come to Dorena Lake each year for outdoor recreation.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers operates and maintains two day-use parks at Dorena Lake, Bake Stewart Park, and Harms Park. Both day-use areas provide visitors with access to many recreational opportunities. For those looking to head out onto the water, a boat ramp is located at Harms Park. Both day-use facilities have picnic areas and access to trailheads along the multi-use Row River Trail. As a stop on the Willamette Valley Birding Trail, Dorena Lake is popular for birdwatching.
The COE also operates a seasonal campground on the lake. Schwarz Campground is open from April to September each year. The campground has 65 campsites, including six group campsites for large gatherings. The campsites don’t have any hookups. RVers will want to ensure they have a full freshwater tank. The pet-friendly campground has many amenities, including a playground, flush toilets, and showers. The campground does accept reservations.
Dorena Lake is located about eight miles east of Cottage Grove, Oregon. About a 30-minute drive from Eugene, it provides a great day or overnight outdoor escape. Gas and other services can be found in the small city of Cottage Grove. From town, the lake can be accessed from Row River Road.
There are parking lots at the day-use areas for visitors coming to hike, picnic, or enjoy activities on the water. The lot by the boat ramp at Harms Park is paved for those with boat trailers. The day-use areas are open year-round. While the weather is mostly mild, check weather and road conditions before making the trip out, especially during the off-season when conditions tend to be wet.
If planning to camp with an RV or trailer, you may find it easier to leave your rig at Schwarz Campground. It is necessary to drive to the day-use parks to access some amenities, such as the boat ramp and trailheads. The parks are separated by a few miles.
Schwarz Park has a campground with 65 campsites, including six group sites for those planning large gatherings. The campground is open seasonally from April to September. None of the campsites have hookups, so plan to boondock in your RV or trailer during your stay. Drinking water is located throughout the campground. Large rigs can easily fit into many of the spaces, with some up to 70 feet in length.
The campsites are well-shaded by tall trees surrounding the campground and lake, making it comfortable even on warm summer days. Each campsite has both a picnic table and a fire ring, providing a great place to gather around or simply relax in the mornings and evenings.
There are many amenities provided at Schwarz Campground to make campers comfortable. Toilets, showers, and a dump station are a few of the amenities offered. A large playground is near the camping area for kids to enjoy. The campground and park are pet-friendly. Pets should remain leashed and in control at all times.
Picnicking brings many visitors to Dorena Lake. There are picnic tables at both U.S. Army Corps of Engineers day-use parks, Harms and Bake Stewart. Whether you plan to enjoy a small or large picnic gathering, your group will enjoy the lake and river views. Parking and vault toilets are located in each day-use area. Your group can easily enjoy a pre or post picnic hike at either park with both having access to Row River Trail.
Swimming is always a popular activity during the summer season at Dorena Lake. There are many shallow areas perfect for wading out into the water. Schwarz Park has a station where you can borrow life jackets.. If you borrow a life jacket, remember to return it for other park guests to use. No lifeguard is present, so swimming is done at your own risk.
Many lake visitors enjoy boating and other water sports such as water skiing. A boat ramp at Harms Park provides quick and easy water access. A paved parking lot is near the boat ramp for vehicles and boat trailers. The boat ramp may be inaccessible at times due to varying seasonal water levels. Those with canoes and kayaks may also want to make the 30-mile drive to Elijah Bristow State Park. The day-use state park is an access point for the Willamette River Water Trail.
Dorena Lake is an excellent location for birding enthusiasts to visit. The lake is one of the 138 designated stops on the Willamette Valley Birding Trail. Osprey and purple martins are known to nest in structures around the reservoir. Birdwatchers may spot rare birds such as the willow flycatcher and yellow-breasted chat. Head out onto the trails to see what types of birds you can find!
Many fishing opportunities await anglers at Dorena Lake. A boat ramp is located at Harms Park, providing access for those who want to head out to deeper water or find a quiet nook. Fishing is permitted from the shoreline as well. Largemouth bass, white crappie, bluegill, cutthroat, and rainbow trout are commonly reeled in by anglers. Review fishing regulations before your visit, and don’t forget to pick up a state fishing license.
The multi-use Row River Trail can be accessed at Row Point, Harms Park, and Dorena Dam. Five miles of this 15-mile trail borders Dorena Lake. There are many trailheads throughout the length of it, allowing trail users to customize the length of their hike or bike ride. While exploring the trails, visitors will encounter many scenic views. Keep an eye out for different species of birds and other wildlife that are known to the area. The trail is paved with some small hills in sections.
