RV Rental Billy Chinook Lake, OR

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Billy Chinook Lake lies in the heart of Oregon, taking its name from a Native American Chief who helped western expeditions along the Oregon Trail. The lake was created in 1967 by the damming of the Crooked, Deschutes and Metolius rivers and acts as a reservoir for all of Jefferson County. Much of the lakes southern branches are within The Cove Palisades National Park, whereas the northern shores are part of the Warm Springs Indian Reservation. The city's of Madras, Culver, and Redmond are only a short drive from Billy Chinook Lake and can offer as stopping off points along the way, perfect for stocking up on supplies.

Billy Chinook Lake is a perfect destination for those wishing to rent an RV and escape city life for a little while. Time can be spent relaxing out on the water with a boat or paddleboard. Or maybe a spot of fishing is more your thing, Billy Chinook Lake is one of the last remaining places where bull trout can be legally fished. The area surrounding the lake is the ideal country to strap up your boots and go for a day-long hike; various trails and paths are waiting to be explored. With numerous campsites along the lake and river, camping at Billy Chinook Lake has never been easier, search for an RV in Jefferson county today and start your adventure.

Discover Billy Chinook Lake


Getting Outdoors

One of the main attractions for camping with an RV at Billy Chinook Lake is the great fishing opportunities it provides. There aren't many places in Oregon where you can specifically target bull trout, but Billy Chinook Lake is one of them. Although bull trout is the main attraction for many anglers on this lake, there is also an abundance of rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, and landlocked salmon. Whether you choose to fish from the 75 miles of shoreline, or hire a boat and find the best-hidden fishing spots out on the water, fishing at Billy Chinook Lake is an experience not to be missed.

With over four thousand acres of water, exploring Billy Chinook Lake by boat is the best option. For those who don’t have their own boat, Cove Palisades Resort and Marina hire out a variety of lake-going vessels. You may choose to rent the unassuming paddleboard and gently paddle your way around the waters. Maybe speed and excitement are more appealing, in that case, hiring out a wave-runner or jetski will satisfy your need for speed. The marina also rents out ‘bumper boats," these boats are designed to mimic the fun-loving bumper cars found at your local county fair. Whether its relaxation or exhilaration, Billy Chinook Lake campers are sure to find both here!

The state of Oregon is famed for its extensive wilderness and hiking opportunities, and the area surrounding Billy Chinook Lake is no exception. Treat yourself to a birds-eye view of the lake by ascending the rugged canyon walls that surround the reservoir. The Tam-a-láu trail is a seven-mile trail that takes hikers to the top of a lava plateau known as the peninsula. After the first mile, views of the surrounding Deschutes and Metolius rivers come into sight. A haven for colorful flora such as phlox, yellow bells, and balsamroot, a walk in the spring or summertime will be a visual delight for any hiker.

Camping at Lake Billy Chinook Lake

For those wishing to camp at Billy Chinook Lake, there is a choice between a number of campsites. The choice of camping location depends on which side of the lake you wish to be. Motorhome camping at Deschutes campground would be the first choice for anyone wanting to camp in modern comfort. Located within the Cove Palisades State Park, Deschutes campsite has 200 campsites to choose from. Modern amenities include restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities. Pull-thru sites and full hookups are available, accommodating 30 and 50 amp electrics. With lakeside views, this campground is a perfect choice for anyone with an RV rental.

The second choice for camping at Billy Chinook Lake is Crooked River Campground; this site is also located within the park. This site provides partial hookups but is also big-rig friendly. With picnic tables, boat ramps and pets being allowed on the site, Crooked River Campground is an ideal family campsite.

Exploring The Area

Located in the city of Madras, The Erickson Aircraft Collection is a must-visit place for anyone in the Jefferson County area. Started by Jack Erickson in 1983, this collection of over twenty rare aircraft will enthrall any lover of aviation. Much of the collection features planes used in infamous historical aerial battles of the Second World War, such as the P-38 Lightning, Messerschmitt, and the B-17 Flying Fortress.

A visit to the ‘Museum At Warm Springs’ will allow you to experience first hand the sounds of ancient languages and songs that make up the confederated tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation. The rich, colorful heritage of these Native American tribes can be seen through the museums excellent exhibits. These include the arts and crafts, traditional clothing and over 2,500 photographs dating from the mid 19th century, to the present day.

Only a short drive from Billy Chinook Lake is Cascade Lavender farm. This beautiful farm lies in the heartland of Oregon’s agricultural belt, as is a must-see place to visit in the height of summer. With approximately four thousand lavender plants and one hundred different varieties, Cascade Lavender Farm displays a sight and smell seen nowhere else. You may visit the farm to observe the sights and take in the enthralling smells of the lavender fields. With picnic tables and patios provided, the farm is a delightful place to stop and eat a picnic. The farm also has a selection of lavender fields in which you may pick your own, taking a piece of this heavenly herb away with you.

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Popular nearby hiking trails and campgrounds


  • Hiking TrailLocation
  • Tam-a-lau Trail at Cove Palisades State Park, ORCulver, OR
  • Cove Palisades Loop, ORThe Cove Palisades State Park, OR
  • Scout Camp Trail, ORRedmond, OR
  • Alder Springs Trail, ORCamp Sherman, OR
  • Steelhead Falls, ORCulver, OR
  • West Metolius River Trail, ORCamp Sherman, OR
  • Sugar Pine Ridge Trail, ORDeschutes National Forest, OR
  • Table Lake and Sugar Pine Loop Trail, ORDeschutes National Forest, OR
  • Green Ridge Trail, ORDeschutes National Forest, OR
  • Head of the Metolius River Overview, ORDeschutes National Forest, OR

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