Hosmer Lake is a beautiful, small lake located inc central Oregon. It's found along Cascade Lakes National Scenic Byway and offers boating, fishing, and more.
It's one of the smaller lakes in this area, but it is incredibly beautiful and is usually a good option on a busy day. Despite this, the parking lot is fairly small, so you're going to want to get there early to make sure there is space to park.
Hosmer Lake: At a Glance
Location: Deschutes County, Oregon
Elevation: Approximately 4,850 feet
Average Depth: 3 feet
Max Depth: 12 feet
Shore Length: 13 square miles
Surface Area: 198 acres
Nearest City: Bend, Oregon
Why Visit? Scenic beauty, excellent fly fishing, paddleboarding, and kayaking opportunities
Camping: Yes
Nearby Campgrounds: South Campground and Lava Lake Campground
Hosmer Lake Location
Hosmer Lake is nestled in the scenic Deschutes County of Oregon. Located at an elevation of approximately 4,850 feet, this picturesque lake is a natural gem. It is conveniently close to the vibrant city of Bend, offering visitors easy access to both urban amenities and outdoor adventures.
Getting to Hosmer Lake
Use the map below to navigate to Hosmer Lake:
History of Hosmer Lake
Hosmer Lake has a rich history that dates back centuries. The lake and its surrounding area have been traditionally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Klamath and Paiute tribes, who have relied on its abundant natural resources for sustenance and cultural practices.
In the early 19th century, European settlers began exploring and settling in the region. They recognized the beauty and potential of Hosmer Lake, leading to increased interest in the area for recreational activities such as fishing and camping.
Over the years, Hosmer Lake has become a popular destination for anglers due to its excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for trout. The lake's serene waters and surrounding scenic landscapes have also attracted outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and photographers.
Hosmer Lake: Activities
Hosmer Lake offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the activities you can engage in at Hosmer Lake:
Fishing
Hosmer Lake is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities. Anglers flock to the lake to try their luck at catching trout, including brook trout and the elusive Atlantic salmon. The lake's calm waters and abundant fish population make it a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts.
Boating
Hosmer Lake provides a peaceful and scenic setting for boating. Whether you have your own boat or prefer to rent one locally, you can navigate the pristine waters of the lake and take in the breathtaking surroundings. Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are also popular ways to explore the lake's tranquil beauty.
Wildlife Viewing
Hosmer Lake is home to a diverse range of wildlife species. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts will have the opportunity to observe various waterfowl, including great blue herons, ospreys, and bald eagles. Keep an eye out for beavers, river otters, and other wildlife that inhabit the lake and its surrounding wetlands.
The surrounding area of Hosmer Lake offers scenic hiking trails that allow you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region. You can embark on a leisurely walk or a more challenging hike. Some nearby hikes include:
Lava Lake via Metolius Windigo Trail
2.8 miles, 100' of elevation gain
The Lava Lake/ Windigo Trail is a good option for those at the lake. It starts at the Resort and follows along the east side of the lake.
Doris Lake and Blow Lake via Six Lakes Trail
4.8 miles, 400' of elevation gain
Doris Lake and Blow Lake via Six Lakes Trail is a 4.8-mile out-and-back trail located in Deschutes National Forest near Bend, Oregon. The trail features picturesque lakes, including Doris Lake and Blow Lake, and provides opportunities to enjoy nature and solitude. Visitors are advised to come prepared with bug spray, as mosquitoes can be prevalent along the trail.
The Senoj Lake Trail
7.8 miles and 700' elevation gain
The Senoj Lake Trail is a 7.8-mile out-and-back trail located near La Pine, Oregon. The trail offers opportunities for backpacking and hiking. It provides a serene and secluded experience, with few encounters with other people along the way. The best times to visit are from June to November!
Picnicking and Relaxation
Hosmer Lake provides idyllic spots for picnicking and unwinding amidst nature. Take advantage of the designated picnic areas and enjoy a leisurely lunch with a stunning backdrop of the lake.
Hosmer Lake Camping
Here are a few campgrounds near Hosmer Lake:
South Campground
Located to the south of Hosmer Lake is South Campground. This is the closest you can camp to the lake, but it is far from the only campground within five minutes of the lake. Each campground has a picnic table, fire pit, and grill for cooking.
Lava Lake Campground is the closest camping option to Hosmer Lake. Located just a short distance away, it offers a rustic camping experience. The campground provides basic amenities such as vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings.
It operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so it's recommended to arrive early to secure a spot during peak seasons.
Lava Lake Resort
Lava Lake Resort is another camping option in close proximity to Hosmer Lake. This privately-owned resort offers both tent and RV camping. They provide facilities such as restrooms, showers, laundry facilities, and a convenience store.
Little Lava Lake Campground
Situated near Lava Lake, Little Lava Lake Campground is another option for camping in the area. It offers a peaceful setting surrounded by pine forests. The campground provides basic amenities, including vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings.
It also operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Lakes Near Hosmer Lake
Here are a few more lakes near Hosmer Lake that you might want to visit:
Cultus Lake
Location: Deschutes County, Oregon
Cultus Lake is a stunning alpine lake nestled in the Deschutes National Forest. Surrounded by lush forests, the lake offers opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing. Its emerald-green waters and picturesque landscapes make it a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Elk Lake
Location: Deschutes County, Oregon
Elk Lake in Oregon is a scenic mountain lake located within the Cascade Range in the Deschutes National Forest. Surrounded by forests and volcanic landscapes, this picturesque lake sits at an elevation of approximately 4,848 feet (1,478 meters).
Sparks Lake
Location: Deschutes County, Oregon
Sparks Lake is a serene alpine lake located in the Cascade Range. Surrounded by stunning mountain peaks and vibrant wildflowers, it offers breathtaking views and a tranquil atmosphere. The lake is known for its mirror-like reflections and is a popular spot for kayaking, paddleboarding, and wildlife photography.
Lava Lake
Location: Deschutes County, Oregon
Lava Lake is another beautiful lake near Hosmer Lake that you might want to check out. Lava Lake is a captivating destination nestled in Deschutes County, Oregon. This picturesque lake sits at an elevation of 4,740 feet, offering scenic beauty and a serene atmosphere.
With an average depth of 20 feet and a maximum depth of 34 feet, the lake provides ample opportunities for fishing enthusiasts to try their luck in its waters. Lava Lake is surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery and offers camping options nearby, making it a sought-after location for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and tranquility.