Discovering Southern Oregon – September 2026

THERE ARE PLACES you visit once, and then there are places that quietly become part of your family’s traditions. Tucked high in the Cascade Mountains just 40 miles east of the Rogue Valley, Lake of the Woods Resort is one of those destinations that has been bringing generations together for more than a century. Surrounded by towering fir forests, fresh mountain air, and crystal-clear water, this historic resort is perfect for a family vacation, a romantic weekend getaway, or simply looking for a peaceful day in the mountains.

The first thing you’ll notice is the remarkable beauty of the lake itself. Sitting at nearly 5,000 feet in elevation, Lake of the Woods is fed by a spring that keeps it full. The surface of the lake reflects the surrounding fir forest and distant mountain peaks like a mirror on calm mornings, rewarding early risers with glass-like water, songbirds, ravens, osprey and bald eagles soaring overhead.

One of the best ways to experience the lake is from the water. The resort’s full-service marina rents pontoon boats, fishing boats, kayaks, paddleboards, pedal boats, and canoes, making it easy for visitors of all ages to explore. Once you leave the resort you will cruise past campgrounds, kid camps, private homes and at both ends of the lake, marshlands full of lily pads and lots of wildlife. The peaceful coves make it easy to see great blue herons, white pelicans, swallows and sandhill cranes stalking the shallows. Schools of trout can often be seen darting beneath the surface, making you forget you’re only an hour from the Rogue Valley.

Lake of the Woods has earned a reputation as one of Southern Oregon’s favorite fishing lakes with rainbow trout, brook trout, kokanee salmon, and largemouth bass. The marina stocks bait, tackle, fishing supplies, and everything needed for a successful day on the water. Early mornings and evenings are particularly productive, when fish become more active near the shoreline.

During the warm, summer months, Lake of the Woods becomes one of Southern Oregon’s favorite swimming destinations as the water temperature along the shore reaches the mid-70’s. Designated swimming areas provide safe access to the cool mountain water, perfect for escaping the valley heat.

Sometimes the best activity is doing very little. Numerous picnic tables are scattered throughout the recreation area beneath towering firs. Pack a lunch or pick up supplies from the resort’s general store and spend the afternoon enjoying one of Southern Oregon’s most beautiful outdoor settings. The combination of mountain breezes, the smell of fir trees, sparkling water, and peaceful surroundings creates the perfect place to unwind.

After a day outdoors, head to the historic lakeside restaurant overlooking the water. Downstairs has large windows which frame spectacular lake views while guests enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Upstairs is an adult-only, intimate bar and restaurant. The great food and beautiful scenery qualify this restaurant as one of the best in Southern Oregon and the most unforgettable. For something more casual, the marina’s pizza and salads provide quick meals that are perfect after a day of boating or swimming. Many visitors grab a pizza and enjoy dinner outdoors while watching the sun begin to set across the lake.

While many visitors come for the day, spending the night allows you to fully appreciate the peaceful atmosphere after the crowds leave. The resort offers charming rustic cabins, RV sites, and two campgrounds. Many campers bring their boats and dock them on the shore close to their campsites. Waking up just steps from the lake is one of the highlights of any visit. Evenings are especially magical. A huge campfire flickers beneath towering fir trees while countless stars appear overhead in the clear mountain sky. The higher elevation provides cool summer nights that are perfect for sleeping. Friday night is outdoor movie night, and Saturday brings an outdoor BBQ with live music on a stage with the lake as its background.

Lake of the Woods isn’t just a summer destination. Winter transforms the resort into a peaceful wonderland as snow blankets the forest. Vistors enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ice fishing, and snowmobiling. The Resort Marina rents everything you need for ice fishing as well as serving great pizza. Rent a cozy cabin and watch falling snow from the warmth of your oversized soaking tub. The snow-covered landscape offers a completely different but equally beautiful experience.

Lake of the Woods also serves as an excellent base for exploring the Southern Oregon Cascades. Within an hour’s drive, you can be at the lodge overlooking Crater Lake National Park, or hike to countless alpine lakes in the nearby Sky Lake Wilderness and the Mountain Lake Wilderness. There is a great bike trail that leads to fish lake about 10 miles away, where you can have lunch at the resort and then ride back.

With its close proximity to Jacksonville, Lake of the Woods is the perfect getaway, anytime of the year, offering a timeless Oregon experience!