North Fork Reservoir, in Clackamas County
North Fork Reservoir is an impoundment on the North Fork of the Clackamas River located in the foothills seven miles south of Estacada. The cold, clear water is surrounded by narrow, steep canyons with trees lining the banks, serving both power generation and outdoor recreation purposes.
The reservoir was built as part of a hydroelectric system on the Clackamas River to generate power for the region. It is the highest of three reservoirs in the area and connects to the downstream Faraday Lake and River Mill Reservoir.
The reservoir is named after the North Fork of the Clackamas River and has long served the local community as a place for outdoor recreation. Families and groups come to paddle, fish, and spend time together on the water, making it a social gathering place for people from nearby cities.
Promontory Park offers parking, boat rentals, kayak docks, restrooms, and camping facilities for visitors. Before entering the water, clean your watercraft to prevent the spread of invasive species, and check the speed limit rules which vary by zone.
A smaller water body called Small Fry Lake within Promontory Park is designed specifically for young anglers, allowing children up to 13 years old to catch three fish per day. This sheltered spot offers families and beginners a safe place to learn fishing.
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