Okay — we’re going to start this article by saying that yes, Crater Lake *is* lauded as the clearest lake in Oregon, and yes, it *is* too beautiful to be real. These are known facts, and it’s not just us who think so! But there are so many more picturesque and pristine lakes in Oregon that deserve the spotlight, so today we’re nominating Waldo Lake for such superlative accolades. Because not only is Waldo Lake one of the largest lakes in Oregon, this body of water, hailed as “the Gem of the Cascades,” is so sublimely beautiful that words and even pictures simply cannot do it justice. So consider this your inspiration to set forth and explore the lovely Waldo Lake for yourself!

Nestled high on the western slopes of the commanding Cascades, Waldo Lake is one of the largest natural lakes in Oregon and one of the purest lakes in the entire world.
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The 10 square miles of Waldo Lake are startlingly clear-blue, fed by snowmelt and free of plants and fish in its clear depths.
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Without marine life to muddy the lake, you can see to depths of 120 feet on a calm day!
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Waldo Lake's placid waters have long been a favorite for water recreation in Oregon, from kayaking and floating to camping and swimming.
U.S. Forest Service- Pacific Northwest Region/Flickr

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Even Oregon's four-legged explorers love this brilliant blue lake!
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A 20-mile trail popular with mountain bikers circles the lake, navigating past several popular campsites along the way. There are more than 200 campsites among the three campgrounds on its eastern shore, in fact, and during the height of summer, this divine destination can become quite crowded.
Bonnie Moreland/Flickr
For those looking for a quieter slice of this pristine paradise, there's the Waldo Lake Wilderness Area on the western and northern shores, and this area is accessible by trail or boat.
Bonnie Moreland/Flickr
There's nowhere in the world quite like Waldo Lake. It's a perfect slice of pristine #pnwonderland paradise, and we're so grateful it's ours.
Bonnie Moreland/Flickr

Have you visited this stunningly, startlingly clear-blue lake before? Waldo Lake truly is one of the most dazzling gems in Oregon! Visit the USDA Forest Services website for more information about camping, hiking, and boating at Waldo Lake; and note that all boat ramps and some trails and day use sites require a recreation pass.

Looking for more crystal-clear lakes in Oregon? Head to this pristine alpine lake in the Wallowas…

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