Odell Lake is one of the gems of the Deschutes National Forest. It’s a playground for anglers, boaters, campers, and hikers, and it’s just waiting for you to visit this summer. Take a look:

Odell Lake is a huge lake tucked away in the Deschutes National Forest. You’ll find it along OR-58, just west of Crescent. The lake is six miles long and 1.5 miles wide.

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The lake is home to trophy lake trout who beckon anglers to try their luck, and fish as large as 40 pounds have been pulled from the depths here. The lake’s depth averages 132 feet, and reaches up to 282 feet.

Didi Clarke/Google The state Mackinaw record is 40 lb., 8 oz, caught here at Odell Lake by Kenneth Erickson in 1984.

To enjoy all this area has to offer, camp overnight on the banks of the lake. You’ll find several campgrounds here, including Princess Creek. Managed by the National Forest Service, it offers 32 rustic campsites.

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The shady campsites are surrounded by Douglas fir, hemlock, and spruce, and include a picnic table and fire ring. The sites are set up for RVs or tents, but don’t have hookups. Vault toilets are available, but you’ll need to bring your own water with you.

Recreation.gov

This pretty campground is rarely crowded, and it’s a perfect wilderness respite. Set up your hammock and take in the scenery.

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Soak in views of Diamond Peak and the Cascade Range, and enjoy the fresh air.

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Odell Lake is a popular spot for boating. Bring along your canoe or kayak to paddle and explore. Motorized boats for fishing and waterskiing are also allowed on this lake.

Gerardo Martinez Cons/iStock via Getty Images Your best odds of pulling a trophy trout from these waters is by getting out on the lake in a boat, but be wary of late afternoon wind, which can cause dangerous conditions.

Campsites at Princess Creek Campground may be reserved in advance, and cost just $14 per night.

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Learn more about Odell Lake and the Princess Creek Campground on the Deschutes National Forest website, and make your campsite reservation on Recreation.gov.

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The state Mackinaw record is 40 lb., 8 oz, caught here at Odell Lake by Kenneth Erickson in 1984.

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Recreation.gov

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Your best odds of pulling a trophy trout from these waters is by getting out on the lake in a boat, but be wary of late afternoon wind, which can cause dangerous conditions.

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Address: Odell Lake, Oregon 97733, USA