Hills Creek Reservoir
Hills Creek Reservoir, a 2,735-acre artificial impoundment located just outside Oakridge, offers year-round fishing opportunities and is renowned for its reliable rainbow trout fishing, thanks to generous stocking programs by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. The reservoir, surrounded by 44 miles of forested shoreline in the scenic Cascade Mountains, also supports populations of crappie, bass, and the occasional trophy-sized landlocked Chinook salmon.
Quick Info
Fish Species
The reservoir hosts a variety of fish, including rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, largemouth bass, crappie, sunfish, and bullhead catfish.
Stocking Information
Annually, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife stocks the reservoir with 60,000 adipose fin-clipped rainbow trout fingerlings and 100,000 adipose fin-clipped spring Chinook salmon fingerlings to support a harvest fishery in the following year.
Fishing Opportunities
Anglers can fish year-round, with spring and fall being particularly productive due to trout stocking schedules. Warmwater species like bass and crappie are more active during the warmer months.
Access Points
The reservoir features multiple access points, including Packard Creek Campground and Bingham Boat Launch, providing both shore and boat fishing opportunities.
Facilities
Amenities around the reservoir include campgrounds, picnic areas, boat ramps, and restrooms, managed by the U.S. Forest Service.
Additional Activities
Beyond fishing, Hills Creek Reservoir offers opportunities for boating, swimming, and hiking, making it a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Scenic Forested Shoreline
Hills Creek Reservoir boasts a picturesque setting with 44 miles of forested shoreline, offering anglers and outdoor enthusiasts a stunning backdrop for their activities. The reservoir is nestled within the Willamette National Forest, surrounded by rugged mountain country that provides a serene and scenic environment.
- Five parks are scattered around the lake, two of which offer overnight camping facilities
- A 130-acre wildlife and wetland area below Hills Creek Dam features open fields, small ponds, riverside habitat, beaver dams, and food plots
- The surrounding forest creates excellent habitat for various wildlife species, enhancing the overall outdoor experience
- Scenic views of the Cascade Mountains, including glimpses of nearby peaks, can be enjoyed from various vantage points around the reservoir
The scenic beauty of Hills Creek Reservoir makes it an ideal destination not only for fishing but also for activities such as wildlife viewing, photography, and simply enjoying the tranquility of nature.
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