Davis Lake, OR
""This is a FLY FISHING ONLY lake ""
Davis Lake is a natural lake located in the Deschutes National Forest in central Oregon, United States.
Location It is about 46 miles southwest of Bend, Oregon, and 24 miles northeast of La Pine. The lake covers an area of approximately 5 square miles and is known for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities, including fishing, boating, camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
Situated within the Deschutes National Forest in central Oregon. It is part of the Upper Deschutes River watershed.
Access Travel south on Highway 97 for 11.8 miles to Forest Road 62, turn west onto Forest Road 62 for 13.5 miles to F.R. 46, at stop sign continue west on Forest Road 62 for 0.3 mile to Jct. of Forest Road 62-850 and Forest Road 62-855, both graveled. Turn north onto Forest Road 62-850 and follow signs for 0.7 mile to Davis Lake at Lava Campground OR turn south onto Forest Road 62-855 and follow signs for 1.8 miles to Davis Lake at East Davis Campground.
Fishing Davis Lake is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for rainbow trout. Anglers can fish from the shore or from boats. The lake is regularly stocked with trout, and there are also opportunities to catch other species such as Bass. The larger Rainbows range 2 to 5 pounds.
Here are a few favorite locations around the lake where anglers often have success: Davis Lake Resort Area: This area around the resort often sees good trout fishing action. It's accessible and provides various spots along the shore to try your luck.
Rocky Point: Located on the northeastern shore of the lake, Rocky Point offers good access and opportunities to catch trout, especially early in the morning or during dusk.
West Shore: The western shore of Lake Davis can also be productive. Look for areas where the water depth changes or where there are submerged structures that attract trout.
South End: The southern end of the lake is quieter and less frequented, making it a good spot for anglers looking to avoid crowds. It can be productive during certain times of the day.
Inlets and Outlets: Pay attention to the inlets and outlets of the lake, as these areas often concentrate fish due to the inflow or outflow of water and the presence of food sources.
Remember to check local regulations regarding fishing seasons, limits, and any special regulations that apply to Lake Davis. Also, consider talking to local anglers or checking with bait shops in the area for the most current tips and recommendations. Happy fishing!
Camping There are several campgrounds around Davis Lake where visitors can pitch tents or park RVs. These campgrounds offer scenic views of the lake and surrounding forest, providing a peaceful setting for a camping trip. Amenities may vary by campground but typically include picnic tables, fire pits, and vault toilets. Davis Lake in Oregon offers several campgrounds that provide a rustic and scenic camping experience amidst the Cascade Mountains. Here are the main campgrounds you can find at Davis Lake:
East Davis Lake Campground ---- Located on the eastern shore of Davis Lake. Offers lakeside camping with beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Amenities include vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings. Accessible via Forest Road 46 (Cascade Lakes Highway).
West Davis Lake Campground ---- Situated on the western shore of Davis Lake. Provides lakeside camping opportunities. Similar amenities to East Davis Lake Campground: vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings. Accessible via Forest Road 46.
South Shore Campground ---- Located near the southern end of Davis Lake. Offers a more rustic camping experience with vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings. Close proximity to the lake and access to hiking trails. Accessible via Forest Road 46.
Davis Lake Primitive Campsites ---- In addition to established campgrounds, there are primitive campsites available around Davis Lake. These sites may have fewer amenities and are often more secluded, providing a quieter camping experience. Suitable for tent camping and smaller RVs (without hookups).
Campgrounds at Davis Lake typically operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Some campgrounds may accept reservations during peak season, so it’s advisable to check availability and make reservations if possible. Access to Davis Lake and its campgrounds is seasonal, generally from late spring to early fall, depending on weather conditions and road closures.
When planning a camping trip to Davis Lake, it’s important to prepare for a rustic camping experience with basic amenities. Be sure to check current conditions and regulations, including any fire restrictions or wildlife guidelines, before heading out. Davis Lake offers a serene and picturesque setting for camping enthusiasts looking to enjoy nature in the Cascade Mountains of Oregon.
Hiking The area around Davis Lake offers numerous hiking trails that vary in length and difficulty. These trails wind through the forest, offering opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the area and spot wildlife. Hikers can enjoy scenic views of the lake and surrounding mountains as they explore the trails.
Hiking Trails ---- Davis Lake in Oregon is primarily known for its camping, fishing, and recreational boating opportunities rather than extensive hiking trails directly around the lake itself. However, the area surrounding Davis Lake and nearby locations in the Deschutes National Forest offer some hiking opportunities.
Here are a few options Lava Island Trail (Deschutes River Trail) ---- --This trail follows the Deschutes River near Davis Lake and offers scenic views of the river and surrounding landscape. It's a relatively easy trail suitable for hikers of all levels. Accessible from various points along Forest Road 41 near Davis Lake.
Tam McArthur Rim Trail: Located in the nearby Three Sisters Wilderness, this trail offers stunning views of the Cascade Mountains, including the Three Sisters peaks. The trailhead is accessible from Cascade Lakes Highway (Forest Road 46), which provides access to Davis Lake as well. It's a more challenging hike with steep sections and elevation gain, suitable for experienced hikers.
Trail of the Molten Land ---- This interpretive trail near Lava Lands Visitor Center (south of Bend) offers insights into the volcanic history of the area. It's a short and informative hike suitable for families and individuals interested in geology and natural history. Accessible via Cascade Lakes Highway (Forest Road 46), which is the main route to Davis Lake.
Deschutes River Trail (Sunriver) ---- Located further downstream from Davis Lake, this trail follows the Deschutes River through pine forests and lava fields. It offers opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the scenic river views. Accessible from various points along the river near Sunriver, south of Bend.
General Tips While there are hiking opportunities near Davis Lake, the trails mentioned above are not directly at Davis Lake but are within a reasonable driving distance in the Deschutes National Forest.
Always check current trail conditions, regulations, and weather forecasts before embarking on a hike. Carry essentials such as water, snacks, a map, and proper hiking gear depending on the trail difficulty and length.
For those visiting Davis Lake primarily for camping or fishing, these nearby hiking trails offer a chance to explore the natural beauty and diverse landscapes of the Central Oregon Cascades region.
Boating---- Boating on Davis Lake in Oregon provides a serene and scenic experience amidst the Cascade Mountains. Here’s what you need to know about boating on Davis Lake:
Types of Boats: Davis Lake allows for both motorized and non-motorized boats. You can use canoes, kayaks, rowboats, paddleboards, and small motorized boats on the lake.
Boat Launches There are several boat launches around Davis Lake that provide access to the water.
East Davis Lake Campground. This campground has a boat ramp on the eastern shore of the lake.
West Davis Lake Campground. There is a boat launch available on the western shore.
South Shore Campground. Near the southern end of the lake, this campground also has a boat launch.
Regulations Check with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) or local authorities for any specific regulations regarding boating, including permits or restrictions. Ensure your boat is properly registered and equipped with required safety gear such as life jackets, whistle, and navigation lights if boating after sunset. Fishing from Boats: Boating on Davis Lake is popular for fishing, particularly for trout and kokanee salmon. You can fish from your boat using various techniques such as trolling, bait fishing, or fly fishing.
Seasonal Considerations Davis Lake is typically accessible for boating from late spring through early fall, depending on weather conditions and water levels. During winter, the lake may freeze over, allowing for ice fishing and limited winter boating activities if conditions permit. Safety Tips:
Always wear a life jacket while boating, especially in colder water temperatures. Be aware of changing weather conditions and sudden winds that can affect boating safety. Respect wildlife and minimize disturbances to preserve the natural environment. Boating on Davis Lake offers a tranquil outdoor experience, whether you're fishing, paddling, or simply enjoying the scenery. Plan ahead, check local regulations, and prepare for a memorable day on the water in the heart of Oregon's Cascade Mountains.
Birding Davis Lake and its surrounding areas offer a mix of habitats including forests, wetlands, and open water, which attract a variety of bird species throughout the year. Common birds you might see include waterfowl, raptors, songbirds, and occasionally shorebirds.
Best Times for Birding ---- Early morning and late afternoon are typically the best times for birdwatching when bird activity is higher. Spring and fall migration periods can be particularly productive for spotting both resident and migratory species.
Birding Hotspots ---- Shoreline Areas-- Walk along the shoreline of Davis Lake to observe waterfowl such as ducks, geese, and occasionally loons. Wetlands and Marshy Areas: Look for wetland areas and marshes around the lake, which attract a variety of bird species seeking food and nesting sites.
Forest Trails---- Explore the trails in the nearby Deschutes National Forest, where you can find woodland birds such as woodpeckers, warblers, and thrushes.
Common species include Mallards, Wood Ducks, and occasionally Common Loons.
Raptors: Look for Bald Eagles, Ospreys, and various species of hawks and owls. Songbirds: Species such as chickadees, nuthatches, and sparrows can be found in the forested areas around the lake.
Shorebirds---- During migration periods, you may spot shorebirds like sandpipers and plovers along the lake's shoreline.
Equipment Bring binoculars and a bird field guide to help with bird identification. A spotting scope can be useful for observing birds on the water from a distance.
Respect Wildlife ---- Practice ethical birdwatching by minimizing disturbances to birds and their habitats. Stay on designated trails and observe birds from a reasonable distance to avoid causing stress to the birds.
Additional Resources Check with local birding groups or the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) for birding checklists, recent sightings, and any special birding events or guided tours in the area.
Birding on Davis Lake offers a chance to connect with nature and observe a variety of bird species in a beautiful mountainous setting. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced birder, Davis Lake and its surrounding areas provide ample opportunities for birdwatching enthusiasts.
Wildlife Viewing Davis Lake and its surrounding forests are home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, birds, and small mammals. Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy observing these animals in their natural habitat while exploring the area. Birdwatchers, in particular, may find a diverse array of bird species to observe. This is one of the most productive wildlife areas in central Oregon. Add a superb view of Cascade peaks at no charge and you have a truly special place to visit. The lake's water level may fluctuate significantly from year to year with a corresponding reduction in animal habitat.
Boating: Boating is a popular activity on Davis Lake, with opportunities for motorized and non-motorized watercraft. Visitors can bring their own boats or rent them from nearby outfitters. Boating allows visitors to explore the lake and access fishing spots that may be difficult to reach from shore.
Overall, Davis Lake offers a fantastic outdoor experience for those seeking fishing, camping, hiking, wildlife viewing, and boating opportunities in the beautiful scenery of central Oregon.