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Wickiup Reservoir State Recreation Area wilderness guide
State Recreation Area · OR

Wickiup Reservoir State Recreation Area

Wickiup Reservoir State Recreation Area offers a serene outdoor experience with its expansive water body and surrounding natural beauty, appealing to anglers and nature enthusiasts alike.

State Recreation Area11,2004+ Trails

Designation

State Recreation Area

Total Wilderness Area

11,200

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Wickiup Reservoir State Recreation Area

Wickiup Reservoir State Recreation Area offers a serene outdoor experience with its expansive water body and surrounding natural beauty, appealing to anglers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Wickiup Reservoir, located in central Oregon, is part of the Deschutes National Forest. It was created in 1949 by the construction of the Wickiup Dam and serves as a key irrigation reservoir. Spanning over 11,200 acres, the reservoir is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for kokanee salmon and bass, attracting anglers from all over. The surrounding landscape features a Ponderosa pine forest supporting a variety of wildlife, including deer and osprey. Recreational activities abound, with options for camping, hiking, and boating. Visitors can enjoy peaceful vistas, especially during sunrise and sunset, when the reservoir mirrors the vibrant skies. Campsites around the reservoir facilitate extended stays, while trails offer scenic views and wildlife encounters. As the area's climate varies from warm summers to snowy winters, different seasons bring unique opportunities for exploration and enjoyment.

Field Guide · State Recreation Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Wickiup Reservoir State Recreation Area

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Fishing at Wickiup Reservoir in La Pine★ 7.8⌖ 3 miFishing
La Pine

Fishing at Wickiup Reservoir in La Pine

Wickiup Reservoir offers excellent fishing near La Pine, Oregon. Enjoy family-friendly fishing of rainbow and brook trout with stunning views of the Cascade Mountains. Best visited in spring and fall, it provides a serene and quiet experience year-round.

Fishing at Crane Prairie Reservoir near Bend★ 7.8⌖ 7 miFishing
Bend

Fishing at Crane Prairie Reservoir near Bend

Enjoy fishing at Crane Prairie Reservoir near Bend, Oregon. An expansive and tranquil spot, ideal for fishing enthusiasts seeking rainbow trout and bass. Best visited in spring and fall for successful catches. Accessible by car, it offers a great escape in Deschutes National Forest.

Discovering Fall River Trailhead★ 7.3⌖ 8 miFly Fishing
Fall River Trailhead

Discovering Fall River Trailhead

Explore Fall River Trailhead near Bend, Oregon. This easy route offers stunning fly fishing opportunities and tranquil hiking paths alongside clear waters and rich wildlife. Best visited in spring and fall for a peaceful outdoor experience.

Fly FishingView Details→
The Best Easy Mountain Biking Trails Near Bend, Oregon★ 7.2⌖ 10 miMountain Biking
LaPine State Park

The Best Easy Mountain Biking Trails Near Bend, Oregon

Explore the 6-mile trail at LaPine State Park, near Bend, Oregon. This easy route is perfect for beginner mountain bikers, featuring scenic forested paths along the Deschutes River. Best enjoyed in spring and fall for a quiet and easy ride.

Mountain BikingView Details→
Camping at Little Cultus Lake Campground in Bend★ 7.6⌖ 10 miCamping
National Forest Development Road 600

Camping at Little Cultus Lake Campground in Bend

Experience camping at Little Cultus Lake Campground in Bend, Oregon. Ideal for family-friendly adventures, enjoy activities like fishing and hiking. Best visited in spring and fall when the area is quiet year-round. Drive-in access with beautiful views in the heart of Deschutes National Forest.

Paddleboarding on Cultus Lake near Bend, Oregon★ 7.8⌖ 11 miPaddleboarding
Bend

Paddleboarding on Cultus Lake near Bend, Oregon

Explore Cultus Lake near Bend, Oregon, ideal for paddleboarding across its clear waters. With easy water access from the campground, visitors can enjoy wildlife watching, including otters and deer, in a serene setting. Suitable for all levels, visit late spring to early fall.

PaddleboardingView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Excellent fishing opportunities for kokanee and bass✦ Ponderosa pine forests with varied wildlife✦ Picturesque sunrise and sunset views over the reservoir✦ Serene camping sites with waterfront access
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Wickiup Reservoir State Recreation Area

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Wickiup Reservoir State Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Wickiup Reservoir State Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Wickiup Reservoir State Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Wickiup Reservoir State Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Wickiup Reservoir State Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Wickiup Reservoir State Recreation Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Wickiup Reservoir State Recreation Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fee; Oregon State Park parking permit required for vehicle access.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Wickiup Reservoir State Recreation Area

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Wickiup Reservoir State Recreation Area

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Clearwater
⌖ 4.90 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Clearwater, Oregon

A secluded and rustic hub of adventure nestled amidst dense forests and flowing rivers, perfect for explorers seeking serenity and challenge.

Summer and Early FallExplore Town
La Pine
⌖ 10.28 miles
Gateway Basecamp

La Pine, Oregon

A serene escape offering a variety of outdoor activities surrounded by beautiful forests, rivers, and volcanic landscapes.

Summer and FallExplore Town
Crescent
⌖ 17.22 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Crescent, Oregon

A peaceful gateway to the Central Oregon Cascades offering serene lake views, forested trails, and year-round outdoor recreation for all skill levels.

Late Spring through Early Fall; Winter for SkiingExplore Town
Sunriver
⌖ 17.57 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Sunriver, Oregon

A resort community offering diverse outdoor experiences with a focus on cycling, water sports, and nearby mountain adventures.

Late Spring through Fall; Winter for Nordic skiingExplore Town
Bend
⌖ 30.75 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bend, Oregon

An energetic outdoor hub with year-round activities including biking, skiing, paddling, and hiking in the high desert and Cascade Range.

Summer and WinterExplore Town
Chemult
⌖ 34.54 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Chemult, Oregon

A quiet high-desert town offering gateway access to volcanic landscapes, forests, and outdoor winter sports with a peaceful, less crowded atmosphere.

Summer through early Fall for hiking and biking; Winter for snow sportsExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Wickiup Reservoir State Recreation Area

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.