Elk Lake Oregon is a beautiful lake located near Bend in central Oregon, accessible via the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway.
One of the more developed lakes near Bend, Elk Lake has three day use areas, three campgrounds, and the convenient amenities of Elk Lake Resort and Marina.
Between swimming, paddling, boating, fishing, hiking, and more, there’s something for everyone at Elk Lake Oregon.
Furthermore, the various options for camping and cabins at Elk Lake make this a great lake for overnight stays.
As central Oregon residents, we love visiting Elk Lake. To help you plan your visit, we have gathered our knowledge here.
Pack your swimming suit and let’s plan a memorable visit to Elk Lake Oregon!
Elk Lake Oregon: Overview
Elk Lake is easy to access via the beautiful Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, about 40 minutes and 32 miles from Bend.
Elk Lake Bend Oregon is relatively developed compared to some of the other lakes near Bend.
There are three day use areas at Elk Lake, which are great for paddleboarding, kayaking, swimming, or just lounging on the shoreline.
Elk Lake Resort Oregon offers an array of convenient amenities including cabins, a restaurant, and watercraft rentals.
In addition to cabins at Elk Lake Resort, there are three individual campgrounds that are great for overnight stays.
Fishing and boating are popular at Elk Lake as well, although there is a 10 mile per hour speed limit (go to Cultus Lake for high-speed boating).
Finally, there are a few hiking trails at Elk Lake, which we will also cover below.
Overall, Elk Lake is one of the best lakes near Bend. Let’s dive into more details.
Elk Lake Oregon Map
Use this interactive map of Elk Lake below to get your bearings. You can also expand it to open in a new window.
When to Visit Elk Lake
Although you can visit via snowmobile in the winter, summer is the best time to enjoy Elk Lake.
In fact, the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway is typically only open between May and October.
That said, August and September have the warmest temperatures, which of course is the best for swimming and other lake activities.
Keep in mind: June and July typically have bad mosquitos, but more snow on the mountains which enhances the scenic views.
Weather in October can be variable, with the first snow usually falling in late October or early November.
Things to do at Elk Lake Oregon
The activities at Elk Lake are diverse and there is something for everyone. Let’s cover the main things to do at Elk Lake.
Enjoy any of the following activities at Elk Lake:
- Swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing
- Lounging on the shoreline
- Boating and fishing
- Take advantage of the amenities at Elk Lake Resort
In fact, we think elk lake is one of the best lakes for swimming and paddling near Bend Oregon.
Enjoy one of the Elk Lake Day Use Areas
Elk Lake swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing, and simply lounging lakeside are possible at one of the three individual day use areas at Elk Lake.
The table below describes each of the day use areas in more detail.
| Elk Lake Day Use Area | Location | Description |
| Elk Lake Resort and Marina | Northwest | Day use parking and beach space at Elk Lake Resort. Best for access to resort amenities. Does get crowded on hot weekends. |
| Sunset View Day Use Area | Northeast | Small parking area with restrooms and large beach space. No boat ramp. No dogs allowed. |
| Beach Picnic Area | South | Small parking area with restrooms and large beach space. No boat ramp. Best mountain views. No dogs allowed. |
Local tip: The Beach Picnic Area generally has the best mountain views of all day use areas at Elk Lake.
Be aware: Dogs are not allowed at the Beach Picnic Area and Sunset View area because of sanitary issues.
Both the Beach Picnic Area and Sunset View area have fairly large beaches where you can spread out.
In contrast, the beach at the day use area at Elk Lake Resort is fairly small. You can still find your own space, but it does feel crowded sometimes.
Keep in mind: Sunset View and Beach Picnic Area are USFS Recreation Fee Areas, requiring a valid pass. You may not be able to purchase one on site.
Take Advantage of Elk Lake Resort Amenities
Elk Lake Resort and Marina (also called Elk Lake Lodge) offers convenient amenities for visitors to Elk Lake.
Stay overnight at one of the Elk Lake Resort cabins, glamping tents, or campsites (including RV spots).
Each of the cabins at Elk Lake Oregon is unique and has its own characteristics, but most have plumbing, electricity, and a kitchen. They also have “camping cabins” which are smaller and don’t have plumbing.
Whichever accommodation you choose, all of the Elk Lake Oregon cabins and campsites at Elk Lake Resort are within a short walk to the lake.
To fuel your lake activities, Elk Lake Resort has a bar and restaurant (but it feels a bit pricey for us), an ice cream window, and coffee.
Elk Lake Resort also offers day docks and cabanas for rent (which again feels expensive). This can be a great option for a group gathering.
For swimming, paddling, and lakeside lounging, there is a nice beach area near the parking lot and it’s usually easy to find a spot.
Elk Lake Resort offers watercraft rentals. You can rent pontoon boats, paddleboards, kayaks, and canoes.
Local tip: The Elk Lake Resort parking lot is fairly small and fills up on crowded weekends, so try to get there before 9:00 am.
In our opinion, the amenities like watercraft and cabin rentals Elk Lake Oregon are part of what makes this lake so nice to enjoy.
Camping Elk Lake Oregon
There are lots of options for camping at Elk Lake. In fact, we think this is one of the best lakes for camping in central Oregon.
There are three USFS operated campgrounds at Elk Lake in addition to the Elk Lake Resort campground.
| Campground | Management | Pros | Cons |
| Elk Lake Resort Campground | Elk Lake Resort | Access to Elk Lake Resort amenities. Boat ramp. | More expensive. |
| Elk Lake Campground | USFS | Access to Elk Lake Resort amenities. Boat ramp. | Limited boat ramp parking. Some sites are close to the road. |
| Point Campground | USFS | Small campground. Good mountain views. Boat ramp. | Some sites are close to the road. |
| Little Fawn Campground | USFS | Less crowded. Boat ramp. | Water level can be low. |
Overall, camping near Elk Lake Oregon is a great way to enjoy a multi-day trip and immerse yourself in nature.
Want to camp more in central Oregon? Learn more about the best campgrounds near Bend.
Go Fishing at Elk Lake
Elk Lake fishing can be fun and rewarding, even though there are other lakes in central Oregon that are perhaps better for anglers.
That said, you can expect to catch brook trout, kokanee salmon, and cutthroat trout, with brook trout being the most common.
The lake’s 10-mile-per-hour speed limit ensures a peaceful fishing experience without high-speed boating activities.
Learn more about fishing at Elk Lake Oregon.
Go Boating at Elk Lake
Elk Lake boating is fun and accessible. There are 4 boat ramps around the lake at Elk Lake Resort, Elk Lake Campground, Point Campground, and Little Fawn Campground.
Be aware: While motorized boats are allowed, the 10 mile per hour speed limit is prohibitive for many activities. Go to Cultus Lake for high-speed boating.
Take advantage of Elk Lake Oregon boat rentals at Elk Lake Resort. You can rent pontoon boats and other watercraft like paddleboards, kayaks, and canoes.
Overall, Elk Lake is great for a relaxing day hanging out on a boat, swimming, and soaking in the sun.
Explore the Elk Lake Hiking Trails
There are several options for hiking at Elk Lake.
If you want a lakeside experience, park at either the Beach Picnic Area or the Sunset View Day Use Area. Whichever you choose, walk along the shoreline towards the other.
The trail mostly follows the shoreline and is relatively easy to stay on track. On a nice day, expect some mountain views which get better closer to the Beach Picnic Area.
Across the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, several hiking trails start at Elk Lake Trailhead. While none are particularly special, they are still pleasant and provide some views.
To find top-tier hikes in central Oregon, check out the best hikes near Bend.
Elk Lake FAQ
Can you swim in Elk Lake Oregon?
Yes! Elk Lake in Oregon is great for swimming, paddling, and lounging on the shoreline.
Is Elk Lake in Oregon open?
Elk Lake is accessible via the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, which is open from May to October depending on weather.
Can you kayak on Elk Lake?
Yes! Elk Lake in Oregon is great for kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing.
What fish are in Elk Lake Oregon?
Elk Lake has brook trout, cutthroat trout, and kokanee salmon.
How do I get to Elk Lake in Oregon?
Access Elk Lake via the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway. Depending on which part of the lake you go to, you may have to drive on a gravel road. The relative popularity of this lake means the roads are usually in good shape.
How deep is Elk Lake Bend, Oregon?
The depth of Elk Lake varies between 25 and 75 feet.
Conclusion
We hope you feel prepared and inspired to visit Elk Lake Oregon this year!
Overall, Elk Lake Central Oregon is one of our favorite lakes near Bend to enjoy a summer day.
If you’re in the area for a bit check out our other articles about central Oregon, including the best things to do in Bend.
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