Howard Prairie Lake, reservoir in Jackson County, Oregon, United States
Howard Prairie Lake is a large reservoir nestled in the mountains of southern Oregon, featuring a wide basin with extensive shoreline and surrounded by pine and fir forests. The water reaches depths of around 80 feet (24 m) in some locations, while a resort on the north shore provides a marina, campground, and dining facilities.
The lake was created in 1958 when a large earth dam was constructed across Beaver Creek, with water also diverted from Little Butte Creek to manage flooding and support irrigation. Since its completion, it has grown into an important recreational and water management center for the region.
The lake draws visitors who engage in fishing, boating, and picnicking as part of their outdoor routine. Local habits include relaxing by the water at sunrise, preparing meals at campsites, and taking leisurely walks through the park.
Campgrounds operate from late April through October and require advance reservations, especially for busy weekends, with stays limited to two weeks within any 30-day period. The resort provides boat slips and rentals, a store with fishing supplies, and a cafe offering simple meals.
In drier years, water levels drop dramatically, reaching just 4 percent of capacity during 2020-21, revealing the lake's strong dependence on seasonal rain and snowmelt. These extreme fluctuations affect both how visitors can use the lake and its visual appearance throughout the year.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
