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Boating At Lake Billy Chinook In Oregon

By AA-Boats & Boating Staff Writers

Lake Billy Chinook, Oregon

Free Public Boating & Watersport Activities

Located in central Oregon, Lake Billy Chinook is a stunning reservoir formed by the confluence of three rivers: the Deschutes, the Metolius, and the Crooked River. The reservoir's unique setting amidst the deep canyons and rugged cliffs of the area creates a breathtaking backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

The surrounding region offers a plethora of attractions for visitors to explore. The nearby Cove Palisades State Park boasts scenic viewpoints, hiking trails, and opportunities for wildlife viewing, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers. Additionally, the Smith Rock State Park, famous for its striking rock formations and world-class rock climbing routes, is within close proximity to Lake Billy Chinook.

Boating is a popular activity on Lake Billy Chinook, with its vast and crystal-clear waters providing an ideal playground for water enthusiasts. From pontoon boats to speedboats, boaters can navigate the reservoir and enjoy the picturesque views of the surrounding canyons and unique rock formations.

A marina on Lake Billy Chinook provides essential services and amenities for boaters, including boat slips, fueling stations, and boat rentals. Visitors can rent boats directly from the marina, allowing them to explore the reservoir and indulge in various water sports.

Boat launch ramps are conveniently available around the reservoir, providing easy access for boaters to enter the water and embark on their adventures. These launch ramps are designed to accommodate different boat sizes and types, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free launch experience.

The nearby city of Redmond, located about 20 miles southwest of Lake Billy Chinook, offers a range of accommodation options, dining establishments, and other amenities for visitors. This provides a convenient base for those looking to explore the reservoir and its surroundings.

The boating season on Lake Billy Chinook typically spans from late spring to early fall, when the weather is pleasant and conducive to outdoor activities. During this time, the reservoir becomes a lively destination, with boaters and water sports enthusiasts flocking to its inviting waters.

For fishing enthusiasts, Lake Billy Chinook offers excellent opportunities to catch a variety of fish species, including kokanee salmon, rainbow trout, and smallmouth bass. Anglers can enjoy a peaceful day of fishing while surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes that make this reservoir a standout destination for outdoor recreation.

Camping is available at the nearby Cove Palisades State Park. The park's campgrounds offer a chance to experience the tranquility of the area, camp under the starlit sky, and awaken to the sights and sounds of nature each morning.

Boating, camping and fishing.

At the intersection of three rivers, Lake Billy Chinook provides excellent boating and water sport activities. This 29,900-acre lake, with three major arms, is located in the central part of the state, at Culver, OR. Enjoy the exceptional scenery along the 72 miles of shoreline, from a boat or from the bank at some of the public areas. At campgrounds and public areas there are opportunities for fishing from the bank. This fishery is home to bass, trout and salmon. Kayaks and canoes allow access to more of these great fishing waters.

Area Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Camping

The Cove Palisades State Park Campground - 541 546-3412

Deschutes Campground - 541 546-3412

Crooked River Campground - 541 546-3412

Billy Chinook Reservoir Map

Fishing

Fish species found in Lake Billy Chinook include largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, bull trout, rainbow trout, brown trout and kokanee salmon.

Largemouth bass Smallmouth bass Rainbow trout Brown trout Kokanee salmon

Click here for a OR Fishing License.

Local Contact Information

The Cove Palisades State Park
7300 SW Jordan Rd
Culver, OR 97734
541 546-3412

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