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 60 miles.

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, Oregon
⌖ 4.90 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Clearwater, Oregon

Clearwater offers a true escape in Oregon’s wild landscapes. With its stunning trails, secluded waters, and dramatic waterfalls, it's a dream destination for adventurers.

Summer and Early Fall
Explore Town
La Pine, Oregon
⌖ 10.28 miles
Gateway Basecamp

La Pine, Oregon

La Pine offers a peaceful gateway to explore towering forests, volcanic wonders, and sparkling lakes. Enjoy hiking, biking, and camping among Oregon's stunning natural landscapes.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
Crescent, Oregon
⌖ 17.22 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Crescent, Oregon

Crescent, Oregon offers a quiet Central Cascades escape with hiking, mountain biking, paddling, and fishing around pristine Crescent Lake. It’s an ideal basecamp for nature lovers seeking solitude and scenic wilderness year-round.

Late Spring through Early Fall; Winter for Skiing
Explore Town
Sunriver, Oregon
⌖ 17.57 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Sunriver, Oregon

Sunriver, Oregon offers a year-round outdoor playground with hiking, biking, kayaking, and skiing nearby. Set along the Deschutes River and surrounded by national forest, it’s perfect for adventure seekers and families alike.

Late Spring through Fall; Winter for Nordic skiing
Explore Town
Bend, Oregon
⌖ 30.75 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bend, Oregon

Bend, OR is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise with world-class hiking, biking, climbing, and skiing. Whether exploring Smith Rock or hitting the slopes at Mt. Bachelor, adventure awaits.

Summer and Winter
Explore Town
Chemult, Oregon
⌖ 34.54 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Chemult, Oregon

Chemult is a serene Oregon high-desert town surrounded by forests and volcanic landscapes. It offers year-round outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, and winter sports with less crowding and spectacular mountain views.

Summer through early Fall for hiking and biking; Winter for snow sports
Explore 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.