Hosmer Lake Is A Beautiful Hidden Gem In The Deschutes National Forest

If you love Oregon’s natural beauty, you probably love to get out there in the wild and experience the quiet solitude you can only find far from our cities. Here’s a gorgeous lake with crystal-clear water, surrounded by thick forest. And the best part? No noisy outboard motors here!

Hosmer Lake is tucked away in the Deschutes National Forest, in the shadow of Mt. Bachelor. It’s the perfect spot for a day relaxation. The lake was once called “Mud Lake,” but was renamed Hosmer Lake in honor of Paul Hosmer, a local writer and naturalist.

DavidD3/Tripadvisor

The best way to explore this 160-acre lake is by canoe or kayak. The five-mile-long coastline around the lake has many marshy spots that are difficult to navigate on foot.

Robert Shea/flickr

Motorized boats are not allowed on this lake, which makes it nice and peaceful. While electric motors are allowed, but most folks simply bring their kayaks and canoes for a quiet paddle.

Laurie S/Tripadvisor

The waters of Hosmer are crystal-clear, and you’ll even be able to see some of the large fish who call this lake home swimming around beneath your kayak.

Sarah H/Tripadvisor

Speaking of fish, Hosmer Lake is a fly-fishing-only lake. It’s full of rainbow trout, brook trout, and Atlantic salmon.

Lessa Clayton/flickr

Explore along Quinn Creek to see a pretty little waterfall.

Deanne A/Tripadvisor

Wildlife abounds here. You’re certain to see tons of birds, including ducks, woodpeckers, jays, hummingbirds, and more. Other wildlife includes Rocky Mountain elk and even an occasional black bear.

Sandy Brown Jensen/flickr

This pretty lake is the perfect place to make memories that will last a lifetime.

Matt Kern/flickr

At the end of the day, retire to a campsite at either South Campground or Mallard Marsh Campground. You’ll find both on the south end of the lake.

Jerry Laymance/Google

At night, this is a spectacular place to witness the star-filled heavens overhead.

Josh Kirklin/flickr

For more information and directions to the lake, visit the forest service’s webpage for Hosmer Lake.