There are over 300 unique lakes near Bend within a two-hour drive. These spectacular lakes in central Oregon are highly diverse, ranging in elevation, size, and accessibility.
As a result, each of these Bend lakes is better for certain outdoor activities. For example, one lake may be better for swimming while another is more suited for boating and fishing. Of course, an alpine lake makes for a beautiful sight at the end of a hike.
With so many stunning lakes near Bend, it can be hard to decide which one to visit. In this article we take a dive into some of the best lakes in central Oregon. Whether you’re into fishing, paddling, camping, swimming, boating, or hiking, we’ll help you figure out the best lakes to visit near Bend.
Overall Best Lakes Near Bend
There are dozens of lakes near Bend and all of them are pretty amazing. These lakes are the best overall. That is, they have a variety of activities and are great for anyone! These are some of the best central Oregon lakes for all activities.
Sparks Lake
Sparks Lake is a magical lake that is overall one of our favorite lakes near Bend. The views of the surrounding mountains are spectacular, and the uniquely shaped lake has so many interesting islands, inlets, and bays to explore by paddling.
Don’t have a watercraft you can paddle? No problem! Pick your spot on one of the several beachy areas a short walk from the parking lot and take a dip in the cold water.
If you feel like a nice walk, I highly recommend doing the Ray Atkenson Memorial Trail which is a beautiful and mellow hike that lets you explore lava fields and the lake. There are also a number of free car camping sites, but they are usually full during the summer.
| Distance from Bend | 45 minutes |
| Activities | Swimming, paddling, hiking, photography, boating (motorized and non-motorized), fly-fishing, bird watching |
| Great for | Nice mountain views, mellow hike, lakeside relaxing |
| Drawbacks | Water can be lower late summer and fall |
Paulina Lake
Paulina Lake is a large lake nestled in the Newberry National Volcanic Monument. Paulina Lake and the surrounding area have so much to offer. From hiking to camping to paddleboarding to boating, Paulina Lake is a great lake for everyone. There is even a hot spring you can hike or paddle to!
In addition to the amazing opportunities for water recreation, the uniqueness of topography surrounding Paulina Lake is a main draw. We recommend the Paulina Peak Loop which brings you to the highest point in the area and provides expansive views of the caldera, Paulina Lake, and its friend East Lake. Alternatively, hike around Paulina Lake and stop for a quick soak in the hot springs.
Another positive about Paulina: it is one of few lakes you can access during the winter without a snowmobile. Although the road is closed about two miles from the lake, you can still hike along Paulina Creek and get a view of a waterfall and the lake at the end!
| Distance from Bend | 45 minutes |
| Activities | Swimming, paddling, hiking, hot springs, boating (motorized and non-motorized), fishing |
| Great for | Unique topography, hot spring soaking, diverse hikes, camping, winter hiking |
| Drawbacks | Less surrounding mountains that some other lakes |
Elk Lake
Elk Lake is probably the most popular lake to visit near Bend. It is a large-ish lake with multiple day use areas, campgrounds, and boat launches. There is also a resort with a restaurant and accommodation (cabins and glamping tents). Needless to say, Elk Lake is established, especially at the main day use area.
While you won’t find maximum solitude, you can rent paddle boards and other paddle-able watercraft, which is a big plus for convenience. You can even rent a pontoon boat. Swim platforms are another nice benefit. Also, ice cream! All around a great family lake but can get crowded so get there early on summer weekends.
| Distance from Bend | 1 hour |
| Activities | Swimming, paddling, boating, fishing, boating (motorized and non-motorized) |
| Great for | Renting watercraft, lots of amenities, accommodation |
| Drawbacks | Can be crowded |
Best Lakes for Paddle Boarding and Kayaking Near Bend
Paddleboarding, kayaking, row-boating (boat-rowing?), and canoeing are popular activities in Central Oregon because there are so many places to do it! However, not all lakes are equal for these paddle-related activities. These are some of our favorites.
Hosmer Lake
Hosmer Lake is overall our favorite lake for paddling adventures. Hosmer has a long skinny shape, with lots of nooks and crannies to explore. In fact, it’s really more like a stationary river than a lake. As a result, it is perfect for exploring via paddling. Also, it is a great spot for fly-fishing.
There is not really a beach space, so don’t expect to spend much time not on the water. Rather, the boat launch is where you park and launch. That is, unless you are camping at Mallard Marsh Campground or South Campground.
| Distance from Bend | 1 hour |
| Activities | Paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing, boating (non-motorized only), fly-fishing, birding, camping |
| Great for | Paddle activities, fly-fishing, birding |
| Drawbacks | No beach area |
Devil’s Lake
Devil’s Lake is a small, shallow, and pretty lake right off the Cascade Lakes Highway. There is a nice day use area and camping area. The lake is a gorgeous turquoise color that gives it a magical feeling. There is not a ton of beach space, but there are some picnic tables and a decent swimming area. However, it is best explored by paddling.
| Distance from Bend | 45 minutes |
| Activities | Paddling, swimming, picnicking, camping, fishing, boating (non-motorized only) |
| Great for | Paddling, swimming, and/or picnic spot near Bend |
| Drawbacks | Near the highway |
Little Lava Lake
Little Lava Lake is the source of the Deschutes River. This small lake is mostly a roundish shape, and it has great views of the mountains. Little Lava Lake is not as popular as some of the other lakes and there are some tiny beaches you can get to by paddling or boating.
In addition, Little Lava Lake is known for its fishing. The lake is a medium size and has a maximum depth of 20 feet. Both motorized and non-motorized boats are allowed. Launching is done via a gravel boat ramp. Also, there is a small campground.
| Distance from Bend | 1 hour |
| Activities | Paddling, swimming, fishing, camping, boating (motorized and non-motorized) |
| Best for | Less crowds, paddling, and swimming |
| Drawbacks | Motorized boats are allowed |
Waldo Lake
One of our favorite lakes, Waldo Lake, is a dream. The water is crystal clear (one of the clearest lakes in Oregon) and feels like you’re flying when gliding on a paddleboard. We love to explore the islands and claim one as our own for the day.
Although it is a bit of a drive from Bend, there is lots of space to spread out. It is one of the largest lakes in Oregon and has three campgrounds and two day use areas.
In fact, there are also 50 primitive dispersed campsites around the lake outside of the developed campgrounds. Hiking and mountain biking is plentiful. The 20 mile trail around the lake is popular for both hiking and riding.
We are sad to report that much of the forest on the west side of the lake was burned in 2022. As unfortunate as that is, we hope it will still be worth visiting in the years to come.
| Distance from Bend | 1 hour 45 minutes |
| Activities | Paddle activities, swimming, boating (non-motorized only), snorkeling, mountain biking |
| Great for | Super clear water, colorful rock bottom |
| Drawbacks | Partial burn in 2022 |
Best Lakes for Day Hikes Near Bend
Whether you’re hiking to a lake or around a lake, some lakes are just great for hiking. These are two of our favorite lakes for day hikes near Bend.
No Name Lake
A Central Oregon classic, No Name lake is popular for its alpine attitude. Posing as foreground for Broken Top mountain and featuring glaciers year-round, you’ve probably seen its handsome aesthetics displayed on social media.
The hike to earn these views is about 14 miles round trip from Todd Lake (although you can also start at Three Creek Lake). The picturesque path parallels Todd Lake and has its fair share of switchbacks and is exposed much of the time which makes for great views!
| Distance from Bend | 35 minutes to Todd Lake Trailhead |
| Activities | Hiking, views |
| Great for | Glacier lake plunges, alpine vibes, long day hike |
| Drawbacks | Can be crowded during summer weekends |
Paulina Lake and East Lake
Pauline Lake and East Lake are part of the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, which contains an active volcano! Don’t worry, it won’t erupt while you’re there (probably). However, you can be thankful because all that volcanic activity formed two beautiful lakes, and lots of hills to hike up for a view. Did I mention there are also hot springs you can hike to?
If you’re up for a long but flat hike, try the Paulina Lakeshore Loop. If you’d prefer more of a view, do all or part of the Paulina Peak Loop. In the winter, you can still do a fun hike, although the road is closed a few miles before the lake.
Best Lakes for Backpacking Near Bend
Central Oregon offers incredible backpacking. Camping in the backcountry allows you to access more remote lakes and experience them more immersively. These are some of our favorite lakes for backpacking near Bend.
Mink Lake
Mink Lake is a 20 mile round-trip hike along the Six Lakes Trail. This lake is a camping spot for many people backpacking this trail, although sleeping at Doris Lake or Blow Lake is also possible for shorter trips.
There are lots of lakes in this area, so the bugs can be pretty bad in the early season. We recommend waiting until middle or late summer.
| Distance from Bend | 1 hour to Six Lakes Trailhead |
| Activities | Mellow backpacking, day hiking, fishing |
| Great for | A flat hike along several nice lakes, better chance for solitude |
| Drawbacks | Can have horse flies and mosquitos |
Camp Lake
Camp Lake is more on the alpine leading side as far as lakes near Bend go. Nestled next to Middle and North Sister, it is fairly exposed, with patches of scraggly pine trees holding strong against the harsh winters.
As a result of its elevation and proximity to mountains, the views are fantastic. Don’t forget about the stars on a clear night! This is a great lake for backpacking in the summer and early fall.
The hike starts at Pole Creek Trailhead and is 7 to 8 miles and maintains a gradual grade, although it is fairly exposed so wear sun protection. As you are greeted by the lake, you’ll probably see glaciers that are there most of the year.
| Distance from Bend | 1 hour 15 minutes to Pole Creek Trailhead |
| Activities | Hiking, backpacking |
| Great for | Camping close to the mountains at an alpine glacial lake |
| Drawbacks | Fairly exposed |
Green Lakes
Green Lakes is a series of lakes nestled in between Broken Top and South Sister. It is a popular overnight backpacking spot. The most common hike starts at Green Lakes/Soda Creek Trailhead but it can also be made part of a longer loop in the Three Sisters Wilderness.
The hike is pleasant and is partially forested, partially exposed. The hike also follows a nice creek most of the way. The lakes at the top are fairly exposed and offer excellent views of the rugged landscape.
| Distance from Bend | 45 minutes to Green Lakes Trailhead |
| Activities | Hiking, backpacking |
| Great for | Overnight backpacking trips or part of a longer loop. |
| Drawbacks | Fairly exposed |
Best Lakes for Car Camping Near Bend
Car camping is a bit less planning and commitment than backpacking and you get to bring more stuff! Fortunately, there are so many great lake-side campgrounds near Bend. These are our three favorite lakes for car camping near Bend. If you want even more info, check out our full article about the best lakes for camping near Bend.
Suttle Lake
Suttle Lake is right off highway 20. There is a day use area, three campgrounds, and a lodge/hotel. Overall, it is a great lake for camping at either Blue Bay Campground, South Shore Campground, or Link Creek Campground. So many options!
There is a super nice loop around the lake. I love to run and walk this loop. It is a great mild but pretty hike to get your blood flowing. There are also nice views of Mt. Washington.
| Distance from Bend | 45 minutes |
| Activities | Camping, hiking, running, swimming, paddling |
| Great for | Lakeside camping and a nice walk around the lake. Staying at the lodge. |
| Drawbacks | Sort of close to the highway |
Big Lake
Big Lake is a little further West than Suttle Lake and a bit closer to Mt. Washington. As a result, it has great views of the mountain’s striking topography. Big Lake Campground and Big Lake West Campground are well placed for taking in views of the lake and the mountain behind it.
Overall, these two campgrounds are great options for a weekend getaway. The only downside is some noise at times from an off-roading area to the North. The lake itself is great for motor boating and waterskiing as well as paddling, fishing, and swimming.
| Distance from Bend | 1 hour |
| Activities | Camping, motor boating, waterskiing, picnicking, fishing, swimming |
| Great for | Camping, motor boating, views |
| Drawbacks | Some noise from nearby offroad area |
Paulina Lake
We mentioned Paulina Lake as one of the best lakes near Bend overall. Part of the reason we think that is because Paulina Lake is excellent for car camping. In fact, there are three separate campgrounds: Little Crater Campground, Paulina Lake Campground, and Newberry Group Campground. You can camp right on the water with a campfire during sunset and look forward to a beautiful sunrise.
Last year, we enjoyed a euphoric night-time paddle boarding session under the stars when we camped at Little Crater Campground. I highly recommend it!
Best Lakes for Swimming Near Bend
In truth, most of the lakes mentioned in this article are good for swimming. However, those in this section have lots of beach space and easy access to the water. These are the best lakes for swimming near Bend.
Scout Lake
Scout Lake is a small lake near highway 20 and Suttle Lake. Picnic tables are plentiful and make setting up for the day a breeze. Also, we love setting up our hammock in the trees there.
Scout Lake is best for hanging out lakeside, picnicking, and swimming. There is a ton of beach space for kids to run around and usually logs in the water for them to swim on. Plus, the water is not as cold as the lake is relatively shallow and small.
Check before swimming in this lake in the late summer and fall because the warmer water can lead to swimmer’s itch. Also, dogs are not allowed for sanitary reasons and because there are usually so many kids there. If you want to get crazy you can rent out the entire Scout Lake Campground for a special event.
| Distance from Bend | 1 hour |
| Activities | Swimming, hammocking, picnic |
| Great for | Kids to swim and hang out early to mid-summer, picnics |
| Drawbacks | Tends to have swimmer’s itch in late summer and fall. Dogs are not allowed for sanitary reasons. |
Doris Lake
Doris Lake is a 5 mile round-trip hike from Six Lakes Trailhead and is one of several lakes on the Six Lakes Trail. Because you need to hike in, this lake is less crowded than those you can park next to. Therefore, you are rewarded with a more secluded experience.
While a day hike to Doris Lake is an excellent way to enjoy a sunny day, you can also camp there overnight and eat your breakfast lakeside style. The lake itself has beautiful crystal clear water that makes for an enjoyable dip.
| Distance from Bend | 1 hour to Six Lakes Trailhead |
| Activities | Swimming, hiking |
| Great for | Day hike, swimming, backpacking |
| Drawbacks | Sometimes horseflies. Mosquitoes can be bad early summer. |
Best Lakes for Fishing Near Bend
There are tons of places to fish near Bend including lakes, rivers, and reservoirs. Admittedly, we are not the most adept fisherpeople, we have some friends who gave us tips on the best lakes for fishing near Bend.
East Lake
East Lake is right next to Paulina Lake in the Newberry National Volcanic Monument. The lake is deep and large. Fish that can be caught at East Lake include Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Kokanee, Chub, and Atlantic Salmon. A variety of techniques can be used including fly fishing, trolling, and casting. Motorized boats are allowed on East Lake
There are two campgrounds at East Lake (East Lake Campground and Cinder Hill Campground) as well as East Lake Resort where you can rent a cabin or RV site. There are several boat launch areas around the lake.
| Distance from Bend | 45 minutes |
| Activities | Fishing, boating, paddling, swimming, hiking |
| Great for | Fishing using multiple techniques, car camping |
| Drawbacks | Lacks those majestic mountain views |
Clear Lake
Clear Lake is a bit of drive from Bend, but definitely worth it. Completely surrounded by forest, the lake is long and narrow with clear, cold water that has a gorgeous turquoise tint. There is a day use area, campground, and resort that sells groceries and tackle.
Fish at Clear Lake include stocked Rainbow Trout and Eastern Brook Trout. Although no motors are allowed, paddle-craft using lures, bait, or flies are viable options. Learn more about fishing at Clear Lake.
| Distance from Bend | 1 hour 15 minutes |
| Activities | Fishing, paddling, swimming, hiking |
| Great for | Fishing without a motor-boat |
| Drawbacks | No motorized boats |
Lava Lake
Lava Lake is on the Cascade Lakes Highway. The lake is relatively large with great views of the surrounding mountains. There is a campground, boating site, and small RV resort complete with a grocery store and tackle shop.
Rainbow Trout and Brook Trout are the main fish in Lava Lake. Fly fishing, trolling, floating methods, lures and using bait are effective methods at Lava Lake. Motorized boats are allowed.
| Distance from Bend | 1 hour |
| Activities | Fishing, boating, swimming, paddling |
| Great for | Fishing with a mountain view |
| Drawbacks | Can be crowded on nice weekends |
Best Lake for Canoe/Boat Camping Near Bend
Believe it or not, you can pack all of your camping gear into a boat or canoe, ditch your car, and row to your camping spot. While we have yet to experience this for ourselves, we imagine many outdoor enthusiasts would enjoy this adventure. This lake is a local favorite for boat-camping.
Cultus Lake
Cultus Lake is large and mostly known for motor boating activities like water skiing, wakeboarding, and fishing. It is also known for boat-in camping. In fact, there are three different boat-in campgrounds. Talk about a fun experience!
You can car camp at Cultus Lake Campground or boat-in camp at Little Cove Campground, Big Cove Campground, or West Cultus Campground. There is also a resort/hotel you can stay at.
| Distance from Bend | 1 hour 15 minutes |
| Activities | Motorboating, camping, fishing, waterskiing |
| Best for | Boat camping and other boat related activities |
| Drawbacks | Mosquitos can be bad early summer |
Best Lakes for Kids Near Bend
In reality, most of the lakes in this article are great for kids. That said, we think these two are some of the best. Just don’t feel like you must go to these if you are a family.
Scout Lake
We mentioned Scout Lake already as a great swimming lake, but it also is one of the best lakes for kids. There are few other lakes that are as small and cute as Scout Lake. It feels as though someone designed it specifically for picnics and swimming. Young kids and families will have a blast. Be aware if you’re visiting in late summer as swimmer’s itch is common. Also, dogs are not allowed.
Elk Lake
As stated previously, Elk Lake is one of the best overall lakes near Bend. However, it is worth reiterating that it is a great place for families. There is a lot of beach space to set up camp for the day and swimming spots are plentiful. Also, watercraft are for rent and food/ice cream can be bought.
For a slightly less crowded option, check out the Sunset View Day Use Area on the East side of the lake. This day use area has a large beach but the parking lot will still fill up on busy weekends.
Other Tips for Visiting Lakes Near Bend
Check Weather
Check the weather before you go to a lake. If you’re going in spring or fall, make sure the road is not closed. Road closures at the start and ending of winter are common.
Pack Accordingly
Even in the summer months, temperatures drop rapidly once the sun sets in Central Oregon’s high desert climate. Take my word for it: pack warm clothes for when it gets cold.
Use Sun Protection
The high elevation of most of the lakes to visit near Bend makes the sun extra strong. As good as the sun feels it will burn you fast.
Leave No Trace
Help keep these special lakes clean and inviting for others to enjoy. Pack it out.
Permits and Passes
Parking passes are required at most but not all of the lakes. Check the links in this article for the specific day use area or trailhead you plan to visit to see if a permit is required. If you do need a permit, we recommend the Annual Northwest Forest Pass, but day passes can also be purchased.
Don’t Forget These!
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Food and beverages (coolers recommended, but cold lake water works too)
- Watercraft (paddleboards, canoes, kayaks, boats)
- Swimwear and towels
- Plenty of water!
- Parking Pass
Conclusion
We hope this article helped you get a better idea of the best lakes to visit near Bend. Specifically, we hope you found value in your decision on which one you might enjoy most!
Get out there and have fun! If you’re interested in learning more about Bend, check out more things to do in Bend.
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