Oregon is home to numerous well-known natural wonders and outdoor recreation areas, such as the striking Crater Lake National Park and the rugged Oregon Coast. However, as is often the case with popular places, these locations can become overcrowded with like-minded adventurers. You end up spending more time looking for a parking spot than finding your zen. Fortunately, Oregon still contains some lesser-known yet no less striking destinations where you can enjoy the great outdoors at your leisure.
One such hidden gem is the town of Dexter.
Dexter is located in the southern Willamette Valley, just east of Eugene amid the western foothills of the Cascade Range. This lakeside hamlet of around 1,000 residents is the perfect spot for a laid-back retreat. Dexter Reservoir, also called Dexter Lake, is the most prominent local feature. Created in 1954 by damming the Middle Fork of the Willamette River, the lake covers an area of nearly 900 acres and is open year-round for aquatic activities. Across the reservoir, accessed by a causeway with a historic covered bridge, is the small town of Lowell. With the reservoir, surrounding parks, and the waterside escape of Dexter, you can enjoy easy access to nature's playground.
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Outdoor Adventures In Dexter
Dexter Lake accommodates all types of water vessels, including motorboats, sailboats, and stand-up paddleboards. At the time of this writing, rental prices range from $60 a day for a kayak to $425 daily for a pontoon boat. Paddlers have the option to glide on the lake's tranquil waters or head west to experience a portion of the Willamette River Water Trail. Fishing is a favorite pastime, and anglers can test their skills catching a variety of species, including rainbow trout and largemouth bass. The reservoir also hosts multiple events throughout the year, like rowing regattas and drag boat racing.
The reservoir is flanked by two parks, Dexter State Recreation Site and Lowell State Recreation Site. At both recreation sites, you can make use of the boat ramps and docks, settle in for a relaxing family picnic, or head down to the lakeshore for an invigorating swim. Dexter State Recreation Site even has an 18-hole disc golf course, which winds through the forest and provides picturesque views overlooking the lake. For an easy hike, take the path from Dexter State Recreation Site to Elijah Bristow State Park, which contains an additional 10 miles of multi-use trails.
If you're looking to embark on a more serious hiking or mountain biking excursion, Dexter is an excellent base camp, with access to trails that lead into the Cascade Range and Willamette National Forest. Eagles Rest Trail, a 4.9-mile out-and-back with 1,332 feet of elevation gain, lies just south of town. Farther east, you can trek the challenging Eula Ridge Trail, an 8.4-mile out-and-back that ascends over 3,500 feet as you make your way to the peak of Hardesty Mountain. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear, bring plenty of water, and watch for the blooming wildflowers.
How To Get There, Where To Stay, And When To Go
The best way to access Dexter is by plane, and car or RV if you're road-tripping through the Pacific Northwest. Eugene Airport, the second-largest airport in Oregon, is easy to navigate and features rental car companies on-site. It's just under 30 miles from the airport to Dexter and will typically take around 40 minutes. The driving route is straightforward and even passes through one of Oregon's hidden valleys with orchards and river trails.
For lodging, if you want to stay close to the lake, rental platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are your best bet. Dexter Shores RV Park is another option, offering 53 full-hookup sites (from $50 per night or $300 per week) and eight tent sites (from $30 per night or $180 per week). For more conventional quarters, head 19 miles west to the city of Eugene, where you'll find a multitude of options running the gamut from motels to luxury hotels. If you're seeking a more rustic experience, strike out east into the Cascade Range for some comfy lodging in the towns of Westfir and Oakridge. The truly intrepid can camp in the Willamette National Forest, which begins a few miles east of Dexter. Dispersed camping, which is camping outside of developed campgrounds, is free, doesn't require a permit, and is allowed year-round in all of Oregon's national forests. Be sure to be prepared and check the regulations before heading into the wilderness.
The Willamette Valley is often described as rain-drenched, and it can be. However, the majority of precipitation typically occurs from mid-winter to mid-spring. Plan to visit Dexter from late spring to mid-fall, and you'll have the best chance to experience ideal Oregon weather.
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