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Mckenzie River

Clear Lake, Oregon: The Lake So Nice, They Made It Crystal Clear

Tucked away in the Willamette National Forest, Clear Lake is like nature’s secret stash of bottled water—except you can kayak on it. This stunningly transparent lake was formed over 3,000 years ago when a lava flow from the Sand Mountain Volcanic Field dammed the McKenzie River, trapping icy spring water in a pristine alpine bowl. The result? A lake so clear you can see ancient, preserved trees standing like underwater ghosts from another era.

Why You Should Drop Everything and Go

🚣 Kayaking & Canoeing Heaven – Motorized boats? Not here! Just peaceful paddling across a lake that looks like it was Photoshopped.

🐟 Fishing Spot Extraordinaire – Stocked with trout and naturally cold year-round, Clear Lake is a dream for anglers who like their fish fresh and their views fresher.

🥾 Hiking & Biking Galore – The 5-mile Clear Lake Loop Trail serves up jaw-dropping vistas, lava rock formations, and towering firs. It’s like walking through a postcard.

🏕️ Camping & Cabins – Whether you’re pitching a tent or cozying up in a lakeside cabin, spending the night here means waking up to misty water and birdsong.

❄️ Winter Wonderland – Come winter, the lake turns into a serene, snow-dusted retreat, perfect for cross-country skiing and drinking hot cocoa while feeling superior to everyone stuck in traffic somewhere.

Bonus Perk: It’s Not That Far!

Only about 90 minutes from Eugene and two hours from Bend, Clear Lake is the perfect weekend escape—far enough to feel like an adventure but close enough that you won’t need a survival guide.

So, whether you’re a hardcore nature lover or just looking for a ridiculously photogenic place to relax, Clear Lake is calling. And trust me, you’ll want to answer.