The Most Remote Lake In Oregon Is Also The Most Peaceful
The Pacific Northwest is home to some of the country’s most beautiful lakes, with Oregon particularly flush with these clear-blue oases. While you’ll find these cerulean blue bodies of water all across the Beaver State, there are some that require a bit more effort and planning to access. But as the saying goes, all good things require effort, and believe us when we say that the most remote lake in Oregon is well-worth seeking out.
Nestled between Portland and Bend, Lake Simtustus is a beautiful body of water that's a dazzling gem in Central Oregon.
In terms of size, Lake Simtustus is, as Goldilocks would say, just right; it has 637 surface acres of water, and the deepest part of the lake reaches 155 feet.
The lake is located below Lake Billy Chinook and ultimately fed from the waters of the Deschutes River; and, between its size and flow, it's the perfect place to enjoy water recreation such as swimming, fishing, paddling, and floating.
Exploring this beauteous body of water feels like a real adventure; you'll paddle through small caves and grottos and, if it's rained recently, maybe even a few small waterfalls!
The lovely lake is the headlining feature of the larger Lake Simtustus Resort, a rugged and remote retreat in the wondrous wilds of the Central Oregon High Desert.
While not nearly as well known as Oregon's alpine lakes or greater Portland oases, Lake Simtustus is a remote and beautiful hidden gem sure to capture your heart and inspire your wanderlust.
I write like it's my job - because it is! I have a Master's in English and love words: crossword puzzles, Scrabble games, Wordle, and, of course, good, old-fashioned books.
I'm a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState, and a contributing writer at Cincinnati Magazine. I love the Great Outdoors and am endlessly awestruck by this beautiful country of ours. Coffee keeps me going, yoga keeps me sane, my kids keep me grounded, and my writing keeps me inspired.