Wickiup Reservoir, lake in Oregon, United States
Wickiup Reservoir is a reservoir in the Deschutes National Forest, about 60 miles southwest of Bend, Oregon, formed by damming the Deschutes River. Its earthen Wickiup Dam runs 2.6 miles (4.2 km) along the water's edge as a long, straight embankment with a flat top and sloped sides. The reservoir covers 45 km2, averaging 20 feet (6.1 m) deep with channels reaching 70 feet (21 m).
The reservoir was constructed in 1949 with the completion of Wickiup Dam on the Deschutes River. This dam project aimed to store water for agricultural use and regional water management in central Oregon.
Several boat launch sites and campgrounds ring the shoreline, providing easy access to the water for visitors. Water levels fluctuate seasonally with notable drops in autumn, which can affect fishing and boating conditions.
The reservoir takes its name from wickiups, dome-shaped dwellings that Native Americans built from reeds and grass in this region. The area served as an important fall camping site for these peoples during their seasonal travels.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 94,346 contributors worldwide.