School may be back in session, but there is still time to get out onto the water! Paddling season continues with early fall’s warm days and extended daylight. Push off from the banks in your kayak, canoe or on your stand-up paddle board for one last glorious autumn adventure.

Before heading out, check the water levels of the reservoirs, monitored by the US Army Corps of Engineers. If you have a non-motorized watercraft over 10 feet long, you’ll need a Waterway Access Permit (WAP) available online through the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Additionally, plan on a day-use permit (federal, state or county), typically $5 - $9 per day, per vehicle or an annual permit. All children 12 years and under must wear life jackets.

Perkins Peninsula Point

Oregon State Park

Veneta

Just minutes from Eugene, this family-friendly park on Fern Ridge Reservoir is easy to visit. Along with picnic tables, grassy lawns and restrooms, there is a swim bay, boat ramp and dock. If it’s busy, there are two other options at Fern Ridge: Richardson Park and Orchard Point. Or slip your canoe into the quiet waters of the Coyote Creek Nature Trail on the other side of Highway 126.  

Nearby: Our Daily Bread bakery in Veneta

Siltcoos River Canoe Trail

Siuslaw National Forest

Florence

On the Oregon Coast, this designated recreation area is popular for camping, hiking, fishing and paddling. Launch your craft at Siltcoos Lake or at any access point along Siltcoos River for a paddle toward the ocean. The gently drifting river trail is a family favorite.

Nearby: Sandland Adventures with dune buggy rides and go-karts, Historic Old Town Florence for lunch

Alton Baker Park Canoe Canal

City Park

Eugene

Right in town, with no parking fees, it doesn’t get any more convenient than this! The canal is ideal for beginners and if local concessionaires are not already staked out in the park, local outfitters may be able to meet you there with rental watercraft. This side channel to the Willamette River is great for wildlife watching.

Nearby: Eugene Science Center, Willamette River Trail for cycling, Oakway Center for lunch

Baker Bay Park

Lane County Parks

Cottage Grove

Dorena Lake is a jewel with easy watercraft access from Baker Bay Park. There is a boat ramp, dock and swim area. Please note that flush restrooms are currently closed but there are portables on-site. The campground and marina close at the beginning of October.

Nearby: Historic Downtown Cottage Grove, Row River Trail and Covered Bridges

Lowell State Recreation Site

Oregon State Park

Lowell

With a playground, picnic tables, flush restrooms, boat ramp, dock and a swim beach, this is a very family friendly spot. Paddle the edges of Dexter Reservoir and fish from your watercraft. This lake is popular with water skiers and larger boats. On the opposite shore is Dexter State Recreation Area with a disc golf course and more boat access.

Nearby: Rattlesnake BBQ at Dexter Lake Club, Lowell Covered Bridge Interpretive Center

Waldo Lake

Willamette National Forest

Oakridge

The shoreline access has been altered due to wildfires, but the Shadow Bay Day Use Area is still open through September and has a boat ramp. Waldo Lake is known for its super clear water and restricts certain motorized boats.

Nearby: Salt Creek Falls, Uptown Oakridge, Office Covered Bridge and Alpine Trail

Clear Lake

Willamette National Forest

McKenzie River

Like Waldo Lake, Clear Lake has pristine water and is a lovely place for paddling. Clear Lake Day Use Area offers non-motorized boat rentals and a boat ramp accessible for personal watercraft with a small fee.

Nearby: Sahalie and Koosah Falls, Belknap Hot Springs Resort

Make a Bigger Splash

While the leaves are changing color, squeeze in that last family rafting trip on the McKenzie or Willamette Rivers. Even later in the season, book a river tour by jet boat or a fishing trip in a McKenzie River drift boat. Also, check out the River House with the Eugene Recreation Guide – they often offer paddling excursions or camps for kids and families.