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Smith Reservoir Area
Stocked annually with trout, Smith Reservoir makes a good fishing spot. Boats can be launched from a site near the dam (a 10 mile per hour speed limit for boats is enforced). Lakes End Campground is the one campground located on the reservoir and is accessible only by boat. Beautiful Sahalie and Koosah Falls are nearby on the McKenzie River National Recreation Trail.
The reservoir when full, spans 170 acres. In late summer, early fall through mid-March, the water levels on Smith Reservoir are frequently drawn down to the point where the boat launch is no longer available. Reservoir and river level information is available from the US Army Corps of Engineers here. Watch for obstructions near the shoreline such as submerged stumps, logs and rocks. Small craft should stay out of open waters when it is windy since dangerous waves can build up suddenly.
At a Glance
| Current Conditions: | Eugene Water and Electric Board (EWEB) has closed Trail Bridge Campground, Lakes End Campground, Trail Bridge Reservoir Boat Launch, and Smith Reservoir through Spring 2026 for work on the Carmen-Smith hydroelectric facilities. In addition, Forest Service Roads 690, 730, and 689 will be closed for the duration of the project. The McKenzie River Trail and associated trailheads will remain open. See closure order. |
|---|---|
| Usage: | Light |
| Closest Towns: | McKenzie Bridge, OR |
| Passes: | Some trails and day use sites require a Recreation Pass |
| Information Center: | McKenzie River Ranger District |
General Information
Directions:From McKenzie Bridge, OR, travel east on Highway 126 for 12 miles to Forest Road 732 at Trailbridge Reservoir.
Follow Forest Road 732 across the bridge, then south along Trailbridge Reservoir to Forest Road 730.
Take Forest Road 730 north 1.5 miles to Smith Reservoir
General Notes:
Boating Regulations & Boating Safety: Oregon State Marine Board manages boating regulations. Visit their website for boating regulations and safety information. They also have links to information about water levels in the reservoirs.
Fishing Regulations & Information: Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife manages fishing regulations. Visit their website for information on fishing seasons and fishing licenses.
Reservoir and River Level Information: From the US Army Corps of Engineers.
Nearby:
Activities
Boating - Motorized
Recreation areas with activity Boating - Motorized:| Water/Flow Level | Water levels and boat ramp accessibility information is available from the Oregon State Marine Board website. Look for Smith Reservoir in the section titled "Willamette Basin Reservoirs." |
Boating - Non-Motorized
Recreation areas with activity Boating - Non-Motorized:Swimming
Recreation areas with activity Swimming:
Related Information
Highlights
- Accessible Adventures Videos
See accessible adventures at Detroit Lake & the McKenzie River Valley
Location