Detroit Dam, Hydroelectric power station in Marion County, United States
Detroit Dam is a hydroelectric power station on the North Santiam River, spanning 465 meters across the water. The facility generates approximately 100 megawatts of power for the region using two turbines.
The United States Army Corps of Engineers completed construction in 1953, after World War II had delayed the project. This marked an important step in powering the region.
The dam created Detroit Lake, which draws anglers, boaters, and campers throughout the year. This body of water has become a gathering place for people seeking outdoor recreation in the Willamette Valley.
The site is easily accessible with parking available and a viewpoint where visitors can see the structure clearly. The warmer months offer better road conditions for reaching the lake and its recreational areas.
Operations have been adjusted to protect endangered Chinook salmon and steelhead trout during their winter migration periods. These changes show how modern energy management can balance power generation with wildlife protection.
Location: Marion County
Location: Linn County
Length: 465 m
GPS coordinates: 44.72095,-122.24980
Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:49
Silver Falls State Park
32.1 km
Mount Jefferson
36 km
Bagby Hot Springs
24.6 km
Detroit Lake
4.5 km
Opal Creek Wilderness
14.4 km
Mount Jefferson Wilderness
36.1 km
Bull of the Woods Wilderness
19.7 km
Santiam State Forest
13.3 km
Table Rock Wilderness
27.9 km
Shellburg Falls
30.1 km
Middle Santiam Wilderness
16.4 km
Big Cliff Dam
4.3 km
Camp Pioneer (Oregon)
31.3 km
Winter Falls
35.8 km
North Falls
34.6 km
Bagby Guard Station
24.7 km
Middle North Falls
36.2 km
Drake Falls
36.5 km
Henline Falls
15.9 km
Jefferson Park Glacier
35.3 km
Marion Forks Guard Station
26.6 km
Pamelia Creek Bridge
24.1 km
Twin Falls
35.6 km
Pechuck Lookout
24 km
Marion Creek Bridge
26.6 km
Bagby Trail
33.9 km
Abiqua Falls
34 km
Collawash River Bridge
36.5 kmVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes