Cultus Lake in Oregon is located in the central part of the state, specifically in Deschutes County, within the Deschutes National Forest. It is situated about 50 minutes from Bend, Oregon.
Cultus Lake in Oregon is a natural lake known for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. It is surrounded by forests and offers activities such as fishing, boating, swimming, camping, and hiking. The lake is also popular for kayaking and paddleboarding.
Cultus Lake: At a Glance
Location: Deschutes County, Oregon
Max Depth: 211'
Surface Area: 1,145 acres
Nearest City: Bend, Oregon
Why Visit? Scenic beauty, fishing, boating, and water activities
Camping: Cultus Lake Resort, Cultus Lake Campground, Cultus Lake Resort
Cultus Lake Map
You can use the map below to get directions to Cultus Lake:
What To Do at Cultus Lake
Swimming: Take a dip in the clear waters of Cultus Lake. The lake provides a refreshing and scenic environment for swimming and cooling off during the warm summer months.
Fishing
Cultus Lake is known for its excellent fishing opportunities. Cast your line and try your luck at catching trout, kokanee salmon, or other species that inhabit the lake. Make sure to check and adhere to any fishing regulations and licensing requirements.
Boating and Water Sports
Rent a boat, kayak, canoe, or paddleboard from Cultus Lake Boat Rentals and explore the lake at your own pace. Engage in water sports activities like water skiing, tubing, or wakeboarding for an adrenaline-filled experience.
Hiking
Surrounding Cultus Lake, you'll find scenic hiking trails that allow you to immerse yourself in the area's natural beauty. Trails like:
Cultus Lake Trail: 3.7 miles
Winopee Lake Trail: 14.6 miles
Cultus Mountain and Lake Loop: 12.4 miles
Picnicking and Beach Recreation
Pack a picnic and enjoy a leisurely meal at one of the designated picnic areas or on the sandy beach along the lake. Relax, sunbathe, or play beach games with family and friends.
Wildlife Viewing
Cultus Lake and its surrounding forests are home to a variety of wildlife. Watch for birds, deer, and other animals as you explore the area. Remember to observe wildlife from a safe distance and respect their natural habitats.
Photography
Cultus Lake offers breathtaking views and opportunities for nature photography. Capture the stunning landscapes, wildlife, and vibrant sunsets to preserve your memories of your time there.
Cultus Lake Resort
Cultus Lake Resort is a well-known recreational facility located on the shores of Cultus Lake in Oregon's Deschutes National Forest. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and vacationers seeking a rustic and scenic getaway.
The resort offers a range of accommodations to suit different preferences. Visitors can choose from rustic cabins, cozy chalets, or campsites for RVs or tents.
Cultus Lake Resort is renowned for its picturesque surroundings. The crystal-clear waters of Cultus Lake, surrounded by dense forests and towering mountains, create a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities and relaxation.
Visitors can indulge in:
Swimming
Fishing
Canoeing
Kayaking
Paddleboarding
The resort also offers a marina and boat rentals for those who wish to explore the lake further. Hiking trails can be found nearby, providing opportunities to immerse oneself in the surrounding area's natural beauty.
Additionally, Cultus Lake Resort features a restaurant and general store catering to guests' needs during their stay. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, and the general store provides essential supplies and groceries.
Cabins
There are a few cabins to rent along the shores of Cultus Lake. The cabins typically come equipped with basic amenities, including kitchens, bathrooms, and fireplaces, providing guests with a comfortable and convenient stay.
Boat Rentals
With the rental service, individuals and families can explore the lake, engage in water activities, and enjoy a memorable experience on the water.
The boat rental options at Cultus Lake typically include a variety of watercraft to cater to different preferences and needs. These may include pontoon boats, motorboats, kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and pedal boats. Each type of boat offers a unique way to enjoy the lake and its surroundings.
You can also rent jet skis!
Camping at Cultus Lake
There are a few different campground options near Cultus Lake. These include:
Cultus Lake Campground
The Cultus Lake Campground is an incredibly convenient location to camp along the banks of Cultus Lake. It offers 55 campsites that can be used by tents, trailers, or RVs that are less than 30' long.
The campground is pretty small, so RVs are generally not recommended.
Little Cultus Lake Campground
This is a smaller campground along the shores of Little Cultus Lake, just down the road from Cultus Lake. The campground costs around $25 a night and offers a boat ramp, drinking water, toilets, and more.
Crane Prairie Campground
Located along the shores of Crane Prairie Reservoir, this campground is another good option near Cultus Lake.