• Lake Owyhee State Park is the most developed park at Owyhee Reservoir
• The park has a campground, boat ramps, picnic tables and other amenities
Lake Owyhee State Park in the picturesque Owyhee Canyonland sits at the northeastern edge of the Owyhee River's reservoir. This park is one of two public recreation areas at the reservoir, developed for day-use and camping.
The park is open year-round, but boat ramp access may be limited from mid-April to mid-October due to low water levels.
The driving journey to the park itself is an adventure, as narrow and winding Owyhee Lake Road traces the Owyhee River canyon which is bordered by sagebrush terrains and vividly colored rocks and cliffs.
On your way to the lake you will pass Snively Hot Springs , a natural hot pool on the bank of the river, and Owyhee Lake Dam.
Boating and Fishing
The park features two boat ramps, making boating and fishing popular activities. Some of the park’s unique rock formations are accessible only by boat, offering an exclusive perspective for visitors on the water.
The reservoir is home to largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish, with occasional catches of rainbow trout adding to the excitement for anglers.
Swimming and Kayaking
The 53-mile-long reservoir is a fantastic spot for various water activities, including swimming, kayaking, and canoeing.
It is important to note that the park is located in a very remote area, with no nearby services and no cellphone reception.
Wildlife Watching
The park can be a fantastic base camp to explore the Canyonlands.
Often, you can see mule deer, wild horse golden eagles, coyotes, ground squirrels, rabbits, pronghorn antelope, California bighorn sheep, and mountain lions.
Lake Owyhee State Park: Camping, Lodging, & Vacation Rentals
Lake Owyhee State Park has the most developed campgrounds at the reservoir. McCormack Campground (open March 30 to October 31) and Indian Creek Campground (open year-round) have 49 electric sites with water, 9 tent sites with water nearby, 4 accessible sites, and 2 cabins. Amenities include hot showers, piped water, flush toilets, picnic tables, fire pit, boat ramp, firewood and ice for sale.
You can reserve your spot up to 6 months in advance.
The Slocum Creek Campground at Leslie Gulch is more primitive.
The closest lodging is available 40 miles away in Homedale, Idaho or 45 miles away in Ontario, Oregon.
Affordable vacation rentals for short and long term stay at Homedale
Affordable vacation rentals for short and long term stay at Ontario
Lake Owyhee State Park | Facts
Open: Year-round
Managed by: Oregon State Parks
Amenities: Picnic tables, boat launch, flush toilets, showers, potable water
Activities: Hiking, nature viewing, photography, picnicking, boating, fishing, swimming, kayaking, camping
Distance from the parking: Short
Road access: Any vehicle
Day-use fees: None
Elevation: 2,800 ft (853 m) at the lake
Lake Owyhee State Park is located:
- 78 miles west of Boise
- 152 miles east of Burns
- 283 miles southeast of Bend.
Adventures Nearby
Directions to Lake Owyhee State Park
From Adrian,
- Head north on OR-201 N/1st Street and follow it for 1.8 miles
- Turn left onto Overstreet Road and follow it for 5.3 miles
- Turn left onto Owyhee Lake Road and follow it for 17.3 miles.
Phone: (800) 551-6949
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