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Access Site OR

Smith Reservoir

Smith River - Smith Reservoir McKenzie River

Source: oregon_gov Updated 1 year ago

City: OR
County: Linn County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 44.30976908, -122.04328012
Air Temp: --
Location
Nearby Gauge Conditions
About This Access Site
Smith Reservoir is a scenic, stocked trout fishery located in the McKenzie River area near McKenzie Bridge, Oregon. The boat ramp at the dam provides easy access to the reservoir's deep, cold waters and is well-suited for kayakers, canoeists, and small motorized boats. A 10 mph speed limit is enforced, making this a calm, peaceful paddling environment. The ramp offers convenient access for launching directly into quality fishing waters.

This location works well as a base for exploring the area. Lakes End Campground is accessible only by boat, offering a unique destination for paddlers seeking an overnight trip. The nearby McKenzie River National Recreation Trail features the beautiful Sahalie and Koosah Falls, providing excellent hiking opportunities when you're not on the water. Several Forest Service campgrounds are located within 10 miles, including reservable options at Trout Creek, Limberlost, and Big Lake West.

**Directions:** From McKenzie Bridge, take Highway 126 east for 12 miles to Forest Road 732 at Trailbridge Reservoir, then follow Forest Road 732 across the bridge and south along Trailbridge Reservoir to Forest Road 730. Turn north on Forest Road 730 for 1.5 miles to reach the access site.
Federal Facility Information
Free Access

Stocked annually with trout, Smith Reservoir makes a good fishing spot. Boats can be launched from a site near the dam (a 10 mile per hour speed limit for boats is enforced). Lakes End Campground is the one campground located on the reservoir and is accessible only by boat. Beautiful Sahalie and Koosah Falls are nearby on the McKenzie River National Recreation Trail.The reservoir when full, spans...

Stocked annually with trout, Smith Reservoir makes a good fishing spot. Boats can be launched from a site near the dam (a 10 mile per hour speed limit for boats is enforced). Lakes End Campground is the one campground located on the reservoir and is accessible only by boat. Beautiful Sahalie and Koosah Falls are nearby on the McKenzie River National Recreation Trail.The reservoir when full, spans 170 acres. In late summer, early fall through mid-March, the water levels on Smith Reservoir are frequently drawn down to the point where the boat launch is no longer available. Reservoir and river level information is available from the US Army Corps of Engineers here. Watch for obstructions near the shoreline such as submerged stumps, logs and rocks. Small craft should stay out of open waters when it is windy since dangerous waves can build up suddenly.View more Popular Lakes and Rivers

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Nearby Campgrounds (5 within 10 miles)
Trout Creek Campground - Willamette (OR)
On-site Reservable
LIMBERLOST CAMPGROUND
On-site Reservable
BIG LAKE WEST CAMPGROUND
On-site Reservable
ICE CAP CAMPGROUND
On-site Reservable
McKenzie River Trailhead at Paradise Campground
On-site