One of the things we love most about Oregon is the fact that you can be surrounded by beautiful scenery just minutes from your home. Even folks living in the Beaver State’s cities are close to incredible outdoor recreation. Dexter State Recreation Site is just 20 minutes from Eugene, and it’s the perfect place to play!
You’ll find Dexter State Recreation Site nestled on the banks of Dexter Reservoir. It’s a quick, easy drive from Eugene to get here - just take Interstate-5 to Oregon Highway 58, then drive south for 17.5 miles.
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Dexter Reservoir was created in 1954 when Dexter Dam was built. The dam creates electricity, also helps mitigate flooding…
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…and created this reservoir, which provides tons of great recreation opportunities!
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Paddleboarding is a popular activity on this pretty lake. Slather on some sunscreen and enjoy!
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Kayakers and canoeists also love paddling around to explore. The reservoir covers 1,025 acres, so there’s plenty to see here.
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Fishing is another great way to spend an afternoon at Dexter State Recreation Site. The reservoir is stocked every year with rainbow trout, and anglers pull some pretty big fish from these waters.
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Boats of all kinds are allowed on Dexter Reservoir, and you can use one of the two docks or the two-lane launch ramp to put in.
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Bring a picnic lunch or dinner along! The picnic tables surrounded by tall Douglas firs are a welcome respite from summer heat.
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While you’re here, you’ll definitely want to play a round of disc golf on the 18-hole course. The course meanders along a path that includes pretty meadows and shady spots with oaks and firs.
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Dexter State Recreation Site is for day use only. The park is open daily from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
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Learn more about this pretty park on the Oregon State Parks website. Have you visited? We’d love to read about your trip!
Tangi Hayes/Google
Eric Suter/Google
Rick Obst/flickr
Camille Pincock/Google
Cory Fiala/Google
Emily Smoot/Google
Jason Bryan/Google
Trevor Shapiro/Google
If you’re looking for another great state park in the area, check out Elijah Bristol State Park; it’s right down the road.
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Address: Dexter State Recreation Site, Dexter, OR 97431, USA
