Lost Creek Lake, Oregon : A Hidden Gem in Oregon
Nestled in the heart of Jackson County, Oregon, Lost Creek Lake is an enchanting reservoir that has captivated both locals and visitors with its serene beauty since 1977. Located approximately 27 miles northeast of the city of Medford, this reservoir on the majestic Rogue River showcases the marvels of modern engineering while providing abundant recreational opportunities and serving as a vital ecological hub in the region.
Breathtaking Landscape and Impressive Depth
Stretching over 10 miles in length and boasting a maximum surface area of 3,430 acres when filled to capacity, Lost Creek Lake is a sight to behold. With 30 miles of picturesque shoreline, the lake’s surface elevation ranges from 1,751 to 1,872 feet. However, what truly distinguishes this lake is its remarkable depth, plunging an impressive 280 feet at its deepest point.
Lost Creek Lake, Oregon Statistics
| Lake Characteristic | Statistic | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Surface area | 3,430 acres | acres |
| Shoreline length | 17.5 miles | miles |
| Maximum depth | 270 feet | feet |
| Average depth | 136 feet | feet |
| Volume | 4,680,000 | acre-feet |
| Elevation | 1,882 feet | feet |
| Fishery type | Cold Water | N/A |
| Ranking (Size) (Oregon) | 27th for surface area | N/A |
Note: Although average depth of Lost Creek Lake is 136 feet with a maximum depth of 270 feet, there are many areas that are much shallower. This is because the lake is relatively wide and shallow, with a shoreline length of 17.5 miles and a surface area of 3,430 acres.
The average depth of Lost Creek Lake makes it a good place for fishing, as there is plenty of water for fish to live in. The lake is also popular for boating, swimming, and camping.
| Depth Range | Percentage of Lake Area |
|---|---|
| 0-30 feet | 60% |
| 30-60 feet | 25% |
| 60-100 feet | 10% |
| 100-200 feet | 4% |
| 200-270 feet | 1% |
A Fishing Paradise
Lost Creek Lake is a haven for fishing enthusiasts, teeming with various fish species, including smallmouth bass and trout. The nearby Cole Rivers Hatchery, established in 1973 just downstream of Lost Creek Dam, plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy fish population in the lake. This hatchery incubates and rears spring chinook, coho, summer and winter steelhead, and fall chinook, ensuring a thriving ecosystem for anglers seeking new challenges.
Fishing Opportunities in Lost Creek Lake, Oregon
Largemouth Bass: Found in Lost Creek Lake, the Largemouth Bass is a highly sought-after species for anglers. With a thriving population, this fish offers exciting opportunities for fishing enthusiasts. During the spring and fall seasons, when the weather is pleasant, anglers can experience the thrill of targeting Largemouth Bass. The best times to catch them are early mornings and late afternoons. Reaching lengths of 12 to 24 inches and weighing between 1 to 8 pounds, Largemouth Bass put up a strong fight and provide a memorable fishing experience.
Smallmouth Bass: Lost Creek Lake is also home to the Smallmouth Bass, a species that attracts anglers looking for a spirited catch. While the population of Smallmouth Bass is moderate, they offer a rewarding challenge. Spring and summer are the prime seasons to target Smallmouth Bass, and anglers have the best chances in the mornings and late afternoons. With sizes ranging from 10 to 18 inches and weighing between 0.5 to 3 pounds, Smallmouth Bass showcase their agility and acrobatics, making the fishing experience exhilarating.
Rainbow Trout: Lost Creek Lake boasts an abundant population of Rainbow Trout, making it a paradise for trout fishing enthusiasts. Anglers flock to the lake during the spring and fall seasons, especially during the early mornings and evenings when Rainbow Trout are most active. These beautiful fish can be found in sizes ranging from 10 to 20 inches and weighing between 0.5 to 5 pounds. With their vibrant colors and energetic behavior, Rainbow Trout provide an exciting and visually appealing fishing experience.
Brown Trout: For anglers seeking a challenge, Lost Creek Lake is home to the elusive Brown Trout. While the population is moderate, these fish require patience and skill to catch. The fall and winter seasons offer the best opportunities to pursue Brown Trout, particularly during the early mornings and late afternoons. Anglers can expect to encounter Brown Trout measuring between 12 to 20 inches and weighing approximately 1 to 5 pounds. With their cunning nature and wary disposition, landing a Brown Trout is a rewarding accomplishment and a testament to angling expertise.
Note: Not all Statistics may be accurate
For the table below: EM=Early Morning | M=Morning | LA=Late Afternoon| E=Evening | LE=Late Evening
Largemouth Bass | Smallmouth Bass | Rainbow Trout | Brown Trout | |
| Best Seasons | Spring + Fall | Spring + Summer | Spring + Fall | Fall + Winter |
| Best Time | EM + LE | M + LA | EM + E | EM + LA |
| Population | Abundant | Moderate | Abundant | Moderate |
| Average Weight/ Length | 2-4 pounds 12-18 inches | 2-3 pounds 12-18 inches | 1-2 pounds 8-12 inches | 2-3 pounds 12-20 inches |
Recreational Activities for All
Beyond fishing, Lost Creek Lake offers a plethora of water sports for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you enjoy boating, skiing, wakeboarding, tubing, or jet-skiing, the lake provides a playground for all kinds of water-based activities. For those who prefer land adventures, a 20-mile trail encircling the lake offers opportunities for hikers and mountain bikers to immerse themselves in the spectacular scenery.
Lodging at Lost Creek Lake, Oregon
| Name | Type | Distance from Lake | Website |
| Joseph H. Stewart State Park | Camground | On Lake | Link |
| Edgewater Inn Shady Cove | Hotel | 12 Miles | Link |
| Rogue River RV Park | Campground | 12 Miles | Link |
| Lake Creek Lodge | Lodge | 11 Miles | Link |
| Union Creek Resort | Cabins | 13 Miles | Link |
Comfortable Accommodation at Joseph H. Stewart State Park
When it comes to lodging, Joseph H. Stewart State Park, located along the lakeshore, ensures a comfortable stay. The park features over 150 sites equipped with electrical hookups for RVs and campers, along with 50 tent sites offering water facilities. To enhance convenience, the campground provides public bathrooms, showers, and an RV dump station. Boat enthusiasts will appreciate the two boat landings available, including the state park boat landing situated next to the Lost Creek Marina. The marina offers boat storage, rentals, on-water fueling, a bait and tackle shop for fishing needs, as well as a small store and restaurant for satisfying post-adventure meals.
Lost Creek Lake stands as a hidden treasure in Oregon, providing a diverse range of recreational activities, a thriving fish population, and comfortable accommodation options. Whether you’re an angler, a water sports enthusiast, a hiker, or simply someone seeking a tranquil retreat amidst natural beauty, Lost Creek Lake is a destination that should not be overlooked. The lake symbolizes humanity’s ability to coexist harmoniously with nature, offering a perfect blend of outdoor enjoyment, relaxation, and ecological preservation.
