Days
<1
Motors Allowed?
No
Difficulty
Easy / Class A
Distance
1.60 mi (2.57 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

A classic mountain lake nestled deep in the Willamette National Forest, Elk Lake is significantly sized to accommodate many human-powered and electric motor vessels. Boaters can enjoy calm waters with scenic views of nearby Battle Ax Mountain and Mount Beachie to the west. 

There is a single basic gravel boat ramp at the west end of the lake in the middle of the 17-site campground. Several vaulted toilets can be found in the campground, and there is no potable water source. There are also several non-designated, free campsites at the east end of the lake. 

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Summer

Congestion

High

Parking Pass

NW Forest Pass

Pros

Surrounding mountain and forested views. Non-motorized boating only. Nearby hiking trails. Campground.

Cons

Heavy use. Rough logging roads.

Features

Campgrounds + Campsites
Fishing

Site characteristics: Water

Lake

Portage required

No

Location

Nearby Adventures

Willamette Foothills, Oregon
Mt. Jefferson + Metolius River Area, Oregon
Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Mt. Jefferson + Metolius River Area, Oregon
Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center

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