LAKE OWYHEE STATE PARK
Lake Owyhee State Park lies next to a 53-mile-long lake formed by Owyhee Dam. Breathtaking views of the Owyhee Mountains await. A boat trip up the lake (we sell fuel, ice, and food to help you stock up) from the park is one of the many not-to-be-missed experiences in eastern Oregon. Look closely! Bighorn sheep and pronghorn antelope live here, as do golden eagles, coyotes, mule deer, wild horses and (rarely) mountain lions. Critters aren't your game? Rockhounds and hikers are welcome in this wilderness paradise. Use the park as your base camp to explore the badlands of Oregon.
The main campground (McCormack) has electric and tent sites, showers, a boat ramp, tepees, a wastewater dump station, and more. The Indian Creek campground has electric sites, fuel, ice and a boat ramp. The Gordon Gulch day-use area has a boat ramp and a large, shaded picnic area.
Located in Eastern Oregon, the park was established in 1958 following the completion of Owyhee Dam on the Owyhee River. The dam's construction resulted in a reservoir that is now known as Lake Owyhee.
The area where this state recreational site resides has been inhabited for thousands of years by various indigenous tribes such as Shoshone and Paiute before European settlers arrived. It became an important location during westward expansion due to its proximity to Snake River which served as a significant route for pioneers traveling along Oregon Trail.
In early 20th century, plans were made to construct a dam with dual purpose: flood control and irrigation supply. Construction began around late-1920s under U.S Bureau of Reclamation supervision and completed after nearly ten years later creating one of largest man-made lakes at time - Lake Owyhee.
CampingPrimitiveyes
Electric Sitesyes
Water/Electric Sitesyes
Full Hookup Sitesyes
1. Indian Creek Campground: This campground is located on the eastern shore of Lake Owyhee and offers 29 tent/trailer campsites, some with electrical hookups.
2. McCormack Campground: Located near the dam at Lake Owyhee State Park, this campsite has both RV sites (with full hookup) and primitive camping options available.
3. Gordon Gulch Day Use Area & Boat Ramp: While not a traditional overnight campground, it's worth mentioning for those interested in boating or day trips to enjoy fishing or picnicking by the lake side.
4. Leslie Gulch Recreation Site: Slocum Creek Campgrounds : Although technically outside of Lake Owyhee State Park boundaries but still within close proximity to explore park features; these free first-come-first-serve BLM managed campsites offer vault toilets and picnic tables without any water supply so come prepared!
5. Farewell Bend Campground: A bit further away from main attractions yet offering beautiful views over Snake River along with amenities like flush toilets , showers etc..
Remember that all state parks require daily parking permits which can be purchased onsite.
1. Lake Owyhee State Park offers numerous swimming opportunities in its vast, serene lake.
2. The park's Gordon Gulch Day-use Area has a designated swim area for safety.
3. Swimming is allowed throughout the lake but swimmers should be aware of boat traffic and changing weather conditions.
4. There are no lifeguards on duty so visitors must ensure their own safety while swimming.
5. Visitors can enjoy long-distance swims due to the large size of Lake Owyhee or just cool off near shorelines.
The park offers a variety of boating options for visitors. There are two boat ramps available, one at Indian Creek and another near the Gordon Gulch Day-use area. The lake is suitable for both motorized and non-motorized boats including canoes, kayaks or paddleboards. Boaters have access to 53 miles of shoreline with opportunities for fishing as well as water skiing during summer months when conditions allow it.
Enjoy fishing in a serene environment with options for both shore and boat angling. Species include smallmouth bass, crappie, yellow perch, rainbow trout and catfish.