Lake Owyhee State Park

Lake Owyhee is Oregon’s longest reservoir, spanning more than 52 miles within the spectacular Owyhee Canyon. Formed by the Owyhee River before being dammed in the 1930s, the canyon showcases a colorful display of volcanic rock layers and formations. Despite its extraordinary length, Lake Owyhee is relatively shallow, with an average depth of only 81 feet. This makes it a favorite fishing destination for warm water catches, such as largemouth bass, and black and white crappie. Other common catches include catfish, yellow perch and rainbow trout. The lake is located in remote, eastern Oregon, near the Idaho border, and can only be reached via a long, steep, narrow road. Yet, what this location lacks in services and amenities (including cellular service) more than makes up for with its dramatic desert setting and scenic landscape. Owyhee State Park, situated on the east shore of Lake Owyhee, and approximately 45 miles south of Ontario, offers two campgrounds on opposite sides of a small bay. McCormack Campground, on the north side, has 29 electric sites and 9 rustic tent sites. These sites are partially shaded, and the campground has water, flush restrooms and showers; a dump station is located near the entrance. Indian Creek Campground, on the south side, has 22 electric sites and 2 cabins. These sites are mostly in the open, and the campground has water and vault toilets. Both campgrounds have ADA accessible sites, and all sites are equipped with picnic tables and fire pits. Ice and firewood are available for purchase. Dogs are welcome, but must remain leashed. Seasonal reservations are available, with some first-come, first-serve availability. Campsite rates are $17–; cabins are $43–. Fishing, boating and water recreation are the main attractions at Lake Owyhee—and it’s largely the only way to see and explore the scenic canyon beyond the campground area. Boat ramps are located near the Indian Creek Campground and Gordon Gulch Day-use Area. Boat fuel and a fish cleaning station are available near the Indian Creek ramp. Kayak and SUP rentals are also available for paddling around the bay and lake nearby. Be sure to check out the “Glory Hole,” near the dam. This unique spillway diverts excess lakewater to the river, and looks like a 60-foot bathtub drain. Besides on-the-water activities, a couple of short hiking trails explore the park area. These are ideal for watching for some of the local wildlife, which includes golden eagles, pronghorns, coyotes and wild horses. Beware of rattlesnakes and mountain lions.