Top 7 Lakes in Umpqua National Forest
Best lakes in Umpqua National Forest are found within a region known for its diverse natural landscape in Oregon. The forest features several lakes, each offering distinct characteristics and recreational opportunities. This area is characterized by conifer forests, views of Cascade peaks like Mount Thielsen and Mount Bailey, and a variety of aquatic environments. It provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating.
Best lakes in Umpqua National Forest
- The most popular lakes is Maidu Lake, a lake surrounded by lush forest, featuring vibrant green water and views of the Cascade Range and Tipsoo Peak. The Maidu Lake Trail and North Umpqua Trail connect around its perimeter.
- Another must-see spot is Lake Lucile, a small, serene lake surrounded by forest. A 0.7-mile path circles its perimeter, offering views of Tipsoo Peak.
- Visitors also love Soda Springs Trailhead & Day Use Area, a trailhead with a day-use area. It features interpretive signs about basalt cliffs, a dam, and the life cycles of salmon and steelhead.
- Umpqua National Forest is known for its natural lakes, reservoirs, and smaller, secluded water bodies. These range from large, productive fisheries to quiet, forested retreats.
- The lakes in Umpqua National Forest are appreciated by the komoot community, with 1 upvote and 2 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
Toketee Lake Campground
Highlight • Rest Area
There are 32 sites available with a fee of $10 ($15 for a group site), and reservations must be made at least two days in advance. For more information and to secure your spot, visit: recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/251907?tab=info
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Maidu Lake
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Soda Springs Trailhead & Day Use Area
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Lake Lucile
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Lake In The Woods
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Tips from the Community
This picturesque lake, surrounded by lush forest, is truly beautiful. The water is a vibrant green hue, and the views of the Cascade Range, nearby mountains, and Tipsoo Peak are breathtaking. The Maidu Lake Trail and North Umpqua Trail connect around its perimeter, ideal for a side trip or an opportunity to find a secluded spot to enjoy the scenery.
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This small, serene lake is surrounded by a beautiful forest, featuring a 0.7-mile path that circles its perimeter. It’s a fantastic spot to take a break, where you can see plenty of ducks swimming in the water and enjoy stunning views of Tipsoo Peak in the distance.
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This trailhead marks the beginning of the Soda Springs Trail, with a day-use area that is great for a short side trip. There are interpretive signs with information about the basalt cliffs, the dam, and the life cycles of salmon and steelhead that inhabit the waters. There are restrooms near the parking area, which is perfect if you need to make a pit stop.
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Toketee Lake Campground, situated at the pause of the Umpqua River, is a scenic campground on the east end of Toketee Lake. The campground has vault toilets, no potable water, and is a “pack it out” campground. The lake is an ideal spot for fishing and swimming and is home to abundant wildlife. If you're lucky, you might even spot a bald eagle while you're here. At the west end of the lake, there is a trail that leads 0.5 miles (0.8 km) to the beautiful Toketee Falls, which features a fantastic viewing platform—a must-visit if you're looking to explore the area for a couple of hours. There are 32 sites available with a fee of $10 ($15 for a group site), and reservations must be made at least two days in advance. For more information and to secure your spot, visit: https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/251907?tab=info
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This little lake is a good base camp for exploring the areas rivers, creeks, lakes, and waterfalls. There's a 13 site campground that is first come first served. You'll also find a number of great trails leaving from the lake that will keep you occupied if fishing isn't your thing.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes in Umpqua National Forest are best for families?
Several lakes in the Umpqua National Forest are great for families. Maidu Lake is surrounded by lush forest and offers scenic views, with trails connecting around its perimeter. Lake Lucile is a small, serene spot with a 0.7-mile path perfect for a peaceful stroll, where you can often see ducks. Lake In The Woods is a quiet, shallow lake ideal for camping and non-motorized boating. Additionally, Toketee Lake Campground is family-friendly, offering swimming and fishing opportunities.
Are there dog-friendly lakes in the Umpqua National Forest?
Yes, many lakes in the Umpqua National Forest welcome dogs. Maidu Lake and Lake Lucile are both noted as dog-friendly. Toketee Lake Campground also allows dogs, making it a good base for exploring the area with your pet.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the lakes?
The lakes in Umpqua National Forest offer a wide range of activities. You can enjoy fishing, swimming, boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding at many locations, including Diamond Lake and Lemolo Lake. Hiking is very popular, with trails like the John Dellenbach Trail around Diamond Lake, the Lemolo Falls Trail near Lemolo Lake, and the Maidu Lake Trail. For more hiking options, explore the Hiking in Umpqua National Forest guide, which includes trails like the North Umpqua Trail. In winter, Diamond Lake transforms into a snow sports hub with cross-country skiing and snowmobiling.
Are there easy hiking trails around the lakes?
Yes, there are several easy hiking options. A 0.7-mile path circles Lake Lucile, offering a peaceful walk. The John Dellenbach Trail, an 11-mile paved path around Diamond Lake, is popular for easy hiking and biking. Near Toketee Lake, a short 0.5-mile trail leads to the impressive Toketee Falls. For more easy trails, check out the Easy hikes in Umpqua National Forest guide, which features routes like the Fall Creek Falls Trail.
What is the best time to visit the lakes in Umpqua National Forest?
The lakes in Umpqua National Forest offer year-round recreation. Summer is ideal for swimming, boating, and hiking, with surface temperatures at Diamond Lake reaching into the seventies. In winter, areas like Diamond Lake are popular for snow sports, including cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Spring and fall provide beautiful scenery and milder temperatures for hiking and fishing.
Can I go wild swimming in the Umpqua National Forest lakes?
Yes, many lakes in the Umpqua National Forest are suitable for swimming. Diamond Lake, Lemolo Lake, and Toketee Lake are all excellent spots for wild swimming. Always be mindful of water conditions and any posted regulations.
Are there any hidden gem lakes in the Umpqua National Forest?
While many lakes are well-known, Lake In The Woods offers a secluded and peaceful retreat. This man-made, shallow lake is nestled deep in a mixed conifer forest, providing a remote feel for camping, non-motorized boating, and fishing. Twin Lakes also offer a quieter escape with beautiful aqua-colored water and opportunities for fishing and hiking.
What unique natural features can I see around the lakes?
The lakes are set amidst diverse natural beauty. Diamond Lake is framed by Cascade peaks like Mount Thielsen and Mount Bailey. Maidu Lake boasts vibrant green water and views of the Cascade Range and Tipsoo Peak. Near Toketee Lake, you can visit the impressive Toketee Falls. Crater Lake, though not within the Umpqua National Forest, is nearby and famous for its incredibly deep blue color and Wizard Island.
Where can I find camping facilities near the lakes?
There are several camping options available. Diamond Lake offers various campgrounds and the Diamond Lake Resort. Lemolo Lake has multiple campgrounds along its shoreline. Toketee Lake Campground provides 32 sites with vault toilets, and Lake In The Woods also has a 13-site campground. Reservations are often recommended, especially for popular spots.
What kind of fish can I catch in the Umpqua National Forest lakes?
The lakes are known for their fishing opportunities. Diamond Lake is a highly productive trout fishery, stocked annually with 300,000 fingerlings. Lemolo Lake is home to German brown trout, Eastern brook trout, rainbow trout, and kokanee salmon. Twin Lakes exclusively offer brook trout, while Crater Lake has rainbow trout and kokanee salmon.
Are there any waterfalls near the lakes?
Yes, several beautiful waterfalls are accessible from the lake areas. Near Lemolo Lake, the Lemolo Falls Trail leads to a 150-foot waterfall. From the west end of Toketee Lake, a short 0.5-mile trail takes you to the impressive Toketee Falls, which has a fantastic viewing platform. Additionally, nearby trails from Lake In The Woods can lead to waterfalls like Hemlock Falls.
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