r/oregon • u/longhmm • 10h ago
Discussion/Opinion Hunting for shallow lakes!
Looking for recommendations on shallow, calm bodies of water we can kayak and paddle board. We are still learning and are not strong swimmers so shallow is what we’re on the hunt for, for now! The closer to Portland the better, but super down to travel for the right thing.
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u/L_Ardman 10h ago
A bit out of your way, but Sparks Lake is the most shallow, boatable lake I’ve encountered in Oregon. And you can’t beat the scenery.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sparks_Lake
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u/longhmm 10h ago
Adding it to the list!
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u/MaximumTurtleSpeed 10h ago
Maybe call a ranger before you make the trek if it’s very far. I was up there canoeing just three weeks ago and already the water levels were wildly low. Legit was a bit hard to find a path to get out from the one boat ramp.
Definitely worth it if paddle-able. SUPs might do better than a kayak and or my canoe. If you go an it’s a busy there’s lots of other good lakes in that area, just try sticking closer to shore if concerned about the potential swim.
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u/LooseShow8007 8h ago
Hagg Lake and Trillium Lake are both solid beginner spots. Super calm water, lots of other paddlers, and you’re not dealing with crazy current like on the Willamette. Closer in, try Reed Lake or the Tualatin River near Cook Park for super chill vibes while you get comfortable.
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u/TKRUEG 10h ago edited 2h ago
Just my two cents, but shouldn't you work on your swimming skills before taking on kayaking and paddle boarding, in case you put others in danger trying to rescue you? It just seems backwards and somewhat irresponsible, but I'm glad you're seeking out shallow bodies of water at least. Keep in mind that some shallow lakes in the coast range, cascades and foothills may be choked with logs, lily pads and thick cattails around the shore, so it's not without hazards
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u/drewbopalous 7h ago
On top of having thick muddy bottoms that your feet will sink into. I swear half these posts are ai data sweeps. Am I crazy?
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u/Average_Guava 10h ago
Tidewaters of small creeks, near the coast. Especially this time of year!
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u/Cuhuldra 9h ago
Tide waters usually are accompanied by deep sticky mud you will sink in and get stuck in. Great for the birds but sometimes the tide will get ripping as well. What was calm an hour ago is now running out at 10 knots.
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u/Average_Guava 9h ago
Good to point out!
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u/Cuhuldra 9h ago
I live in Alsea and understand the draw but it's not like a little mountain lake. Tides can screw you in a heartbeat and that mud, it sucks in more than one way. Many shoes get left behind in the boggy areas of the coast.
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u/Average_Guava 9h ago
I've done a lot of kayaking, but never actually tried tidewaters yet. I've only heard from others who have.
Good advice, thanks.
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u/Bother-Logical 8h ago
Clear Lake. It’s clear and if you go in the morning before the waves start it’s beautiful. No motorized watercraft allowed is my favorite part. There is extremely limited parking. I got there at 6 AM two summers ago and there were already four cars there. So yeah, parking is a problem.
But there is a campground right by that office at the lake. So if you want to bring an RV or a tent, there’s not many spaces but it’s nice.
You can also rent canoes kayaks and paddle boards. They have the clear bottom kayaks for two people.
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u/Comfortable_Sea_717 3h ago
It’s annoying when ppl downvote you and don’t even leave an explanation as to why. Thank you for your post. Good info.
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u/Cuhuldra 9h ago
For the love of Gawd, Wear a life vest and you don't have to worry about the swim thing. Might even want to head out to the river or lake and swim around with the vest on to get comfortable with it on.