Days
<1
Motors Allowed?
No
Difficulty
Moderate / Class B
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

This pristine lake set in the middle of central Oregon's Cascade Lakes region should be on every paddler's list! The highlights range from its shallow and astonishing emerald waters to the unique outlet that constitutes the humble beginnings of the Deschutes River.  The trout-filled lake also boasts northern views of Mount Bachelor and South Sister.

Cut off from its bigger brother, Lava Lake, by a solidified lava flow, Little Lava Lake sits at an elevation of 4,744 feet and will not disappoint.  While in your boat, be sure to explore the headwaters of the Deschutes and its tranquil marshy banks, and then dock right in front of your campsite where you can snuggle up next to a warm fire for the rest of the evening.  That being said, if you're looking to camp out at Little Lava Lake Campground, get in early as it runs on a first-come first-served basis.

Note: The only access to the lake is via Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, which is closed during the winter months due to extensive snow pack.  The highway typically opens in late June and closes in early November.

Before you head out on your next adventure to Little Lava Lake, make sure you have the right gear! 

Here's a list of our go-to essentials to get you started:

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Summer
Fall

Congestion

Moderate

Pros

Opal waters. Fishing and floating down the Deschutes River headwater channel.

Cons

None.

Water Temperature

32.00 °F (0.00 °C)

Features

Picnic tables
Fishing
Campgrounds + Campsites

Typically multi-day

No

Shuttle required

No

Site characteristics: Water

Lake

Portage required

Yes

Location

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