Best lakes around Milwaukie include access to the Willamette River, Kellogg Lake, and Lake Oswego, offering diverse water features. Milwaukie, Oregon, provides various recreational opportunities and scenic beauty through its natural waterways and nearby lakes. The area features river access points, smaller lakes for fishing, and larger lakes for extensive water sports. These locations serve as key natural features for outdoor activities.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
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Clackamette Cove is a small lake off of Clackamas River. The Clackamas River Trail runs right along the banks of the lake. It is definitely worth taking a break somewhere along the lake to enjoy the views.
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Originally named Waluga by the Clackamas Indians, meaning "wild swan," the lake has served as a vital resource for centuries. A scenic trail encircles the lake, providing a pleasant path for joggers, walkers, and cyclists.
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This is a particularly scenic part of the South Shore Boulevard which crosses over several inlets of Oswego Lake. The road is mostly tree-lined, but with gaps where you are rewarded with views of the lake and surrounding woodland. This part of the boulevard crosses over West Bay and the Oswego Canal.
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The land was acquired in 1909 from the estate of William S. Ladd. Recognizing the popularity of the area among local kids, especially the lake, the city designed a park in 1911. The park features a range of sporting activities and offers both paved and unpaved paths, providing diverse options for your run.
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Explore the beauty of Oswego Lake, a natural gem nestled within the heart of Lake Oswego, Oregon. This picturesque lake, born from a former Tualatin River channel, offers a scenic escape. Altered by a concrete dam, it now spans 431.7 acres. As a reservoir, Oswego Lake welcomes hikers to its lush shores, providing a tranquil and unique oasis within the city.
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This cove is a good spot for fishing paddling, and hiking. There is a really nice walking path that runs between Main Street and Washington Street, offering some great views of the cove.
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City of Portland Reservoir Number 5 is one of the water reservoirs at Mount Tabor that no longer supplies drinking water. Though they are important assets to the City of Portland and are undergoing a maintenance project, the City of Portland Reservoir Number 5 resembles a small castle, and the view of downtown from the east end of the reservoir is great, especially after sunset when the lights are all on.
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Within Milwaukie, you can directly access the Willamette River via George Rogers Park and Milwaukie Bay Park, which offers a boat ramp and walking paths. Kellogg Lake is also located near Milwaukie, providing a smaller aquatic experience. Additionally, North Clackamas Park features serene waterways and wetlands.
The Willamette River is ideal for boating, fishing, and paddleboarding, with Milwaukie Bay Park and George Rogers Park offering access points. Kellogg Lake is a prime destination for anglers. Lake Oswego provides a wide array of water recreation activities including swimming, fishing, and boating, with seasonal access to the Lake Oswego Swim Park.
Yes, there are several options. Elk Rock Island, accessible from the Willamette River, offers trails for hiking and bird-watching. North Clackamas Park has walking paths through its woodlands and wetlands. For more extensive options, you can explore routes like the Oswego Lake loop or trails within Tryon Creek State Natural Area, which are popular for hiking.
You can enjoy scenic views of the Willamette River from Milwaukie Bay Park and George Rogers Park. Elk Rock Island offers tranquility amidst nature. For unique perspectives, visit View of Mount Tabor Reservoir Number 5 and City of Portland Reservoir Number 5, which provide views of historic structures and the city skyline, especially beautiful after sunset. View of Oswego Lake from South Shore Boulevard offers picturesque glimpses of the lake and surrounding woodlands.
While Lake Oswego is a significant attraction, public access to the lake itself can be limited. However, the city of Lake Oswego's parks provide access to the lake and rivers for various activities. The Lake Oswego Swim Park is open seasonally to residents and features lifeguards, inner tubes, and picnic areas.
Absolutely. George Rogers Park is a favorite for families, featuring a sandy beach, playground, and sports fields. North Clackamas Park also offers picnic areas, playgrounds, and walking paths suitable for families. The historic reservoirs like View of Mount Tabor Reservoir Number 5 are also considered family-friendly viewpoints.
Kellogg Lake is primarily known as a prime destination for anglers, offering a good fishing spot where various species can be found. The surrounding area also provides opportunities for a quiet getaway from urban life.
Yes, North Clackamas Park, with its mosaic of woodlands, streams, and wetlands, is a haven for wildlife and an excellent spot for birdwatching. Elk Rock Island in the Willamette River is also popular for bird-watching, offering tranquility amidst nature.
The Milwaukie area offers several cycling routes. You can explore the Willamette and Clackamas Rivers loop or the Eastbank Esplanade – Springwater Corridor loop, which starts from Milwaukie. These routes provide scenic rides along the region's waterways.
Yes, the reservoirs on Mount Tabor, such as View of Mount Tabor Reservoir Number 5 and City of Portland Reservoir Number 5, are considered historic structures. They were once integral to Portland's drinking water supply and are now maintained for their historical significance and unique architecture.
Visitors appreciate the diverse opportunities for outdoor activities, from boating and fishing on the Willamette River to quiet getaways at Kellogg Lake. The scenic views, especially from viewpoints like those at Mount Tabor reservoirs, and the family-friendly amenities at parks like George Rogers Park, are also highly valued.


Still not found your perfect lake around Milwaukie? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.