Situated at the western edge of the Cascades 50 miles east of Salem, 3,500-acre Detroit Reservoir is one of Oregon’s largest and most popular summer boating retreats. The reservoir was created in 1953 with the damming of the North Santiam River. It’s over nine miles long with more than 32 miles of shoreline, and reaches depths of 400 feet.

Detroit Reservoir has countless little coves to tuck into, making it a great spot for cruisers seeking seclusion. Rainbow trout and kokanee are the primary angler’s quarry here; spots where creeks enter the lake are most productive. If you look up from your line from time to time, you’re likely to spot ospreys or bald eagles, both of which call the lake home. Well-established as a recreational hub, the town of Detroit at the impoundment’s eastern edge offers overnight visitors extensive services, including campgrounds, stores and restaurants. For boaters seeking a little extra adventure, there’s a small boat-in campground on Piety Island.

Courtesy of “Boating in Oregon” by Oregon State Marine Board