Serene coastal lake at the south edge of Oregon Sand Dunes near the Umpqua River Lighthouse
Beautiful relatively warm lake with a sandy beach, trails, and campground
Located near Winchester Bay at the south edge of Oregon Sand Dunes National Recreation Area, Lake Marie is the ideal combination of adventure and leisure making it perfect for an all-day exciting summer outing. A part of Umpqua Lighthouse State Park, the tranquil coastal lake sits near campground and the historic Umpqua River Lighthouse.
A small serene freshwater lake, surrounded by evergreen pines, large Sitka spruce, western hemlock, Lake Marie has a small sandy beach making this spot excellent for swimming and relaxing in nature. For all adventure enthusiasts, the lake is open not only for swimming and fishing but also non-motorized boating such as canoeing and kayaking.
The trails, picnic areas at the Lake Marie was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Twenty years later, an overnight camping area was built.
Furthermore, entirely surrounded by shore pines and firs, a 1-mile scenic loop-trail is meandering around the lake. Anyone desiring to take in the breathtaking view can make a short stop as the multiple tables and benches are placed along the trail. The main route runs around the lake. There are other trails connecting the lake trail with the day-use facilities and campground.
Finally, for those desiring to stay overnight, the Umpqua Lighthouse State Park features a campground, log cabins, rustic and deluxe yurts, and fire pits. If a rejuvenating summer day out is what you desire, there is no reason to look beyond this tranquil lake.
Fishing
Lake Marie is stocked with rainbow trout three times a year. Also, warmwater species are available including largemouth bass and yellow perch.
Umpqua River Lighthouse
Built in 1894 to indicate safe entrance to the Umpqua River, now the Umpqua River Lighthouse and museum are coastal attractions offering a way to learn local history.
Caution. It does not recommended to walk to the beach through the dunes as this part of Dunes Recreation Area is heavily used by ATV.
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Lake Marie | General Description
Open: Year-round from sunrise to sunset
Managed: Oregon State Park
Location: Umpqua Lighthouse State Park
Services: Flush toilets, drinking water, garbage service, boat ramp, picnic sites
Activities: Swimming, hiking, biking, fishing, boating, scenic viewpoint
Accommodations: RV and tent campground, log cabins, yurts
Distance from the parking: Short
Road access: Any passenger vehicle
Day-use fees: None
Dogs: Must be on a leash
Popularity: Moderate to high
Elevation: 27 ft (89 m)
Lake Marie is located:
- 28 miles south of Florence
- 77 miles northwest of Roseburg
- 94 miles southwest of Eugene.
Swimming hole rating: 3 out of 5
Water body: Natural lake
Water quality: Transparent
Current: None
Depth: Deep and shallow
Beach: Sand
Water T° (summer): Warm
Directions to Lake Marie
From Florence,
- Follow US-101 Pacific Coast Scenic Byway for 27 miles to Lighthouse Road
- Turn right onto Lighthouse Road and continue 0.7 miles to the destination on the left.
Oregon State Park
Phone: 541-271-4118