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Access Site OR

Islet

Waldo Lake North Fork Middle Fork Willamette River

Source: oregon_gov Updated 1 year ago

City: OR
County: Lane County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 43.74840000, -122.00982000
Air Temp: --
Location
Nearby Gauge Conditions
About This Access Site
Islet is a popular day-use and camping destination located on the north end of Waldo Lake, one of Oregon's largest natural lakes. The site features a concrete boat ramp approximately 30 feet wide that provides straightforward access for kayaks, canoes, and motorized boats. The launch area includes a dock, vault toilets, potable water, and sandy beach access—making it convenient for both launching and day-use visitors. The campground is reservable and operates seasonally from early June through late September.

Waldo Lake is a large, peaceful alpine lake surrounded by Douglas fir and mountain hemlock forests in the Cascade Mountains. The lake's remote shorelines make it ideal for paddling and exploration, with 22 miles of shoreline accessible via the Jim Weaver Loop trail. Note that motorboats are restricted to electric motors only, and a 14-day moorage limit applies to boats. Afternoon winds are common, which can affect paddling conditions. Located 37 miles east of Oakridge via Highway 58, this is a less-crowded alternative to other Waldo Lake access points. Mosquitoes can be present early in the season; August and September offer the best conditions for visits.
Federal Facility Information
801-226-3564 Free Access Reservations Available

Overview
Waldo Lake is one of the largest natural lakes in Oregon. It offers a uniquely peaceful setting on the water and along remote shorelines, surrounded by forests of Douglas fir and mountain hemlock. Recreation in the area is abundant with the lake an ideal location for water activities like sailing, canoeing and swimming.Recreation
Waldo Lake is circled by the Jim Weaver Loop, 22 miles of...

Overview
Waldo Lake is one of the largest natural lakes in Oregon. It offers a uniquely peaceful setting on the water and along remote shorelines, surrounded by forests of Douglas fir and mountain hemlock. Recreation in the area is abundant with the lake an ideal location for water activities like sailing, canoeing and swimming.Recreation
Waldo Lake is circled by the Jim Weaver Loop, 22 miles of trail for hiking and biking. Bikes are allowed on the trails, but not in the nearby Waldo Lake Wilderness. There is also easy access to the Pacific Crest Trail.Facilities
This 55 site campground is located at the north end of Waldo Lake, just south of North Waldo Campground, 31 sites are reservable. Each site has a fire ring and picnic table. There are three vault restrooms within the campground and another at the boat launch/day use area.

Islet offers wonderful sandy beaches. Western winds consistently blow each afternoon, offering respite from early season mosquitoes, which are typically intense from June to mid-August so come prepared.Natural Features
Situated high on the western slopes of the Oregon Cascades at 5,400 feet in elevation, Waldo Lake is one of the purest lakes in Oregon (9.8 square miles with a maximum depth of 427 feet). It has no permanent inlet to bring nutrients into the lake for plant growth. The lack of plant life contributes to its purity, allowing you to see to depths of 120 feet on a calm day.
Nearby Attractions
The north end of Waldo Lake is a popular starting point for many wilderness trails and lakes, most notably the Rigdon, Wahanna and Torrey Lakes. The 1-mile Shoreline Trail between Islet and North Waldo campgrounds provides a short and pleasant hike along the lakeshore.

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Nearby Campgrounds (8 within 10 miles)
Gold Lake Campground (OR)
On-site Reservable
ISLET CAMPGROUND
On-site Reservable
Cultus Lake Boat In - West Campground
On-site Reservable
Skookum Creek Campground
On-site Reservable
Cultus Lake Boat In - Big Cove Campground
On-site Reservable
QUINN RIVER CAMPGROUND
On-site Reservable
Rock Creek Campground (Deschutes National Forest, OR)
On-site Reservable
LITTLE CULTUS CAMPGROUND
On-site Reservable
Nearby Recreation Areas
Crane Prairie Reservoir Located within
Wickiup Reservoir Located within
Nearby Boat Facilities
Cultus Lake Boat In - West Campground On-site
Cultus Lake Boat In - Big Cove Campground On-site