Fern Ridge Reservoir

Great flatwater paddling spot in the valley! Perkins Peninsula Park is a good place to put in and paddle around the lake, and Coyote Creek provides a nice paddle through the canal. 

20-30 minute drive from OPS

Parking requires a Lane County Parks parking pass. 

https://www.recreation.gov/camping/gateways/237

Dexter Reservoir

Great flatwater paddling spot in the mountains! You can launch at Dexter State Recreation Site or Lowell State Recreation Site. Both offer quick access to beautiful flat water paddling. 

45 minute drive from OPS 

https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=179

Parking at both Dexter State Recreation Site and Lowell State Recreation site do not require a parking pass. 

Mckenzie River

Finn Rock to Helfrich – classic McKenzie day float, fun for rafting or kayaking. This run features two class III rapids, Brown’s Hole, and Marten Rapid – novice boaters are recommended to bring along someone more experienced, or choose another section.  

60 minute drive from OPS

Parking at both Finn Rock and Helfrich requires a Lane County Parks parking pass. 

**Remember, paddling on moving water is inherently more dangerous than flat water.

Willamette River

Alton Baker Park to Valley River Center – a short and easy float for a beginning paddler or someone just looking to float the river with some friends!

Also consider the Alton Baker Canoe Canal, it runs in a circle with a few portages.

20 minute drive from OPS

Parking at Valley River Center is free, and there are many parking spots in the shade. Parking at Alton Baker Park does not require a parking pass. 

Siltcoos Lake and Water Trail

Great flatwater paddling spot on the coast! Siltcoos Lake provides a beautiful place to paddle, and the Siltcoos Water Trail is a calm three-mile paddle to the Pacific Ocean. Make sure to take note of tide tables before setting off!

90 minute drive from OPS

Parking at both locations requires a Lane County Parks parking pass.