Sparks Lake in Oregon 2024
A beautiful natural lake in the central Cascade Range
Best time: June–November
Sparks Lake is located in 27 mi (43 km) west-southwest of Bend off the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway in Deschutes National Forest, Oregon. It was named after a 19th-century pioneer "Lige" Sparks, a rancher in central Oregon. The lake boasts views with the stunning Three Sisters, Mount Bachelor, and Broken Top Peak, on the backdrop. It features a boat launch operated by the United States Forest Service. Sparks Lake is also a popular fly fishing destination for brook trout and stocked cutthroat trout. The lake is about 7 ft (2 m) deep.
Sparks Lake covers about 370 acres (150 hectares). It is surrounded by meadow, marsh, and wetland area, abundant with birds and wildlife. Lush forests, green meadows, and small ponds covered by yellow Indian pond lilies are a beautiful summer getaway. The best time to visit Sparks Lake is from June through November.
Sparks Lake features about 22 backcountry campsites, located around its shore offering privacy and scenic setting for a perfect camping weekend.