The lake and its shoreline set in the gently rolling hills of the Willamette Valley, is used for boating, swimming, water skiing, fishing, picnicking and camping. The Cottage Grove Dam, completed in 1942, stores up to 33,000 acre-feet of water and provides valuable flood control as well as irrigation, recreation and im
Maybe — confirm before you go.
Army Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate.
- Fee type Fee unknown — The fee structure here is unconfirmed.
- Source Find on Recreation.gov ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Check
- Official pagewww.recreation.gov ↗
- Contact (541) 942-5631
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Cottage Grove Lake — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
Depends Does the America the Beautiful pass work here?
Maybe — Army Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate. Check with the managing agency before you go.
Yes Can you fish at Cottage Grove Lake?
Yes — fishing is one of the listed activities here. You’ll need a valid state fishing license.
Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at Cottage Grove Lake. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Can you swim here?
Yes — swimming is available at Cottage Grove Lake. There are typically no lifeguards, so swim at your own risk and check conditions.
Yes Can you camp at Cottage Grove Lake?
Yes — camping is available. Reserve ahead where required; you can check availability on Recreation.gov.
Depends Can you have a campfire?
Sometimes — campfires are subject to seasonal fire restrictions and bans. Always check current fire conditions first.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include Hoodoo Mountain Road. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you watch wildlife or birds here?
Yes — Cottage Grove Lake is a spot for wildlife and bird watching. Keep your distance and never feed animals.
Depends Is there winter recreation?
Yes — snow and winter activities are available seasonally. Check conditions and closures before you head out.
Nearby sites
Bureau of Land Management / Public domain · Wikimedia Commons Bureau of Land Management Row River Trail
CheckThis Bureau of Land Management site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
Doug Kerr ("dougtone") / CC BY-SA 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Dorena Lake
CheckArmy Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate.
