Detroit Lake Camping: A Helpful Guide
Tuesday, May 11th, 2010One of the things Oregon is known for is its wondrous natural beauty. In fact, many campers consider this state as one of the best places in the United States to go camping in. And it is true that it is abundant with beautiful campgrounds and campsites where you and your family can enjoy a peaceful and relaxing vacation.
Detroit Lake, located about 50 east of Salem, along Highway 22, is a popular camping destination in Oregon. It is open starting middle of March up to the end of September. It has over 300 campsites that include 106 full hookups, 72 electrical facilities, and 133 tent sites. It also offers 82 boat slips for people who want to go boating. Moreover, this is one of those few parks that have three universal access sites for campers with disabilities.
The Mongold Day Use Area
One of the most sought-after spots in this lake is the Mongold Day Use Area. This park, which is located just 1.5 miles west of the Detroit Lake State Park, is the one and only public boat launch area. It provides a large swimming area that is great for some fun afternoon frolicking as well as 120 vehicle or trailer spaces. Just be sure to come early, as this is a first come first served park.
Detroit Dam and Big Cliff Dam
The Detroit Dam, built in 1953 by the Army Corps of Engineers, is very popular among tourists. Another dam worth visiting is the Big Cliff Dam located 3 miles downstream from the Detroit Dam.
Detroit Ranger Station
Another worthwhile attraction to visit is the Detroit Ranger Station, situated just across the highway from the entrance to the Detroit Lake State Park. Here, you can get some practical information about the park and maps that you can use when you go hiking.
Recreational Activities to Do
When planning for a trip, you have to consider what kind of activities to do. In Detroit Lake, add outdoor fun to your vacation with fishing and swimming. This campground is a wonderful place to cool off during the hot months of summer. You can also do some relaxing bird watching or wildlife viewing since this place is surrounded with lush forests.
Other than these, you can also enjoy going on a tour to the Detroit Dam or hiking in the Cascade Mountains and national forests. But of course, if you want to know what it is that everyone is watching out for, you have to know about the Detroit Lake’s annual fireworks display.
Tips
Make reservations early. You may call or visit their website for this purpose. Early reservation is particularly important during peak seasons since this place is popular among tourists, it can get quite crowded during camping months. If you want a tranquil vacation, go during the off peak season.
Aside from this, be sure to bring the right camping gear like camping tents. Since camp areas in Detroit Lake can get quite crowded during the peak seasons, it would be wise to invest in a cabin tent, especially if you are coming as a family or group of friends. This would be a smart move since this type of tent takes less space than several smaller tents plus you get to enjoy the same privacy because it is equipped with dividers.
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