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Lake Billy Chinook Images and Information
The Lake is a unique feature of Oregon's geology,
as it is in a steep canyon formed at the confluence of the Crooked
River, the Metolius River, and the Deschutes River. It is known as a
nesting and gathering place for Bald Eagles, and some locations on the
lake offer stunning views of Mt. Jefferson to the west.
Please see the calendar for details about our May 17-20 event
Additional resources
- How to submit more pictures for this page
- OOPS runs a paddle weekend at Lake Billy Chinook, usually during spring or fall. See below.
- Click to view the map location for Lake Billy Chinook
- General Information about the park - click here
- Map and brochure - click here
- Conditions in the spring or fall:
- A wet suit or dry suit is recommended, as are layers and wind protection on the water
- It's usually nice, with temperatures making it up into the 60’s, down to 30’s or 40's at night. This time of year is often one of the most placid in Oregon’s high desert
- Other Concerns
- Depending on which campsite area you use, services such as gasoline, food, restaurants are distant and cell service may be poor or nonexistent.
- An Oregon Invasive Species permit is required.
Reports from previous trips
Member galleries on other websites
- John Montague's 2014 album
- John Montague's 2013 album: vertical scrolling version, traditional flickr album
- John Montague's 2012 album: vertical scrolling version,
- John Montague's 2007 allbum
Member Videos
- None yet - be the first!
Lake Billy Chinook Event Information
What: A camping and kayaking trip on a lake that has towering walls and beautiful views. Evening campfires and camaraderie.
Trips: Typically, Level 1 and 2. Level 1 trips may be limited due to the potential for wind. We do need to drive between two-five scenic miles within the park for most trips; some require more driving. All trip sign-ups will be done on-site.
Clothing on the water: A wet suit or dry suit is recommended, but clothing requirements will follow the OOPS Cold Water Policy. Wet exit certification is required, as is compliance with all other OOPS safety policies. Bring layers and wind protection. Organizer will communicate requirements.
Meals and Gatherings: Bring your own food, stove etc., and plan on at least one potluck. Registrants will receive more information from the Event Concierge. Please do not bring firewood. Your event fee covers the cost of firewood that we will purchase locally. Please plan to join us for group campfires!
Parking: If you stay outside the park, you will need to purchase a day pass at the entrance booth to launch from sites within the park.
Time from Portland: About 2.5-3.5 hours.
Special Considerations: Services such as gasoline, food, restaurants are in nearby Culver. Cell service may be poor or nonexistent in some areas of the park; it should be fine at Crooked River Campground. Invasive species permit required.
State Park firewood advice: “Please protect the Pacific Northwest from invasive species by getting your firewood at the campground, or close to it. Firewood can carry insects and diseases that threaten the health of our western forests. You can make a difference.”
Directions:
From Portland: Take US Hwy 26 E to SW D Street in Madras, OR. Turn right onto SW D Street, continue onto OR-361 S, continue on to Jefferson, continue onto SW Culver Hwy, turn left onto SW Gem Lane. Turn right onto SW Frazer Drive. Turn right on to SW Peck Road. Follow Peck down into the park, and take the first left once you are within the park to turn into the Crooked River Campground.
From Salem: Take Hwy 22 over Santiam Pass through the town of Sisters. On the east side of Sisters, take Hwy 126 to Redmond. At Redmond, turn left or north on Hwy 97. Go for approximately 17 miles to the Culver turn-off. Turn left and follow park signs for approximately 5 miles. The Crooked River Campground (Loop E) is the first road to the left after passing the park entrance sign.