Lake Oswego Lakes

Lakes Around Lake Oswego

It’s summertime and that means it’s time to plan your next grand getaway. If you’re looking for a fun destination, consider visiting a lake near Lake Oswego. Lucky for you, when you make a trip to Lake Oswego there are quite a few options for spending time on the lake.

Whether you’re seeking to float in a tube with a book, partake in some water skiing, swim, or nap in the sand, the lakes near Lake Oswego offer you numerous opportunities for aquatic activities. So what are you waiting for? Pack up your vehicle with your fishing gear and a picnic basket then set out your next day off to find a brand new favorite spot on the water!

Lakes Close to Lake Oswego

Lake Activities

When you visit a lake near Lake Oswego you’ll find all kinds of activities that can be enjoyed by groups of all types. Whether you’re just looking for a day trip or make it a long weekend at a hotel or a bed and breakfast on the water to make for a bigger, better getaway.

Let’s look at some of the options available to you when you make your way to a Lake Oswego lake:

Pack a picnic basket. Lake Oswego’s lakes provide a wealth of top-notch picnic areas for you to pack up some tasty treats, or a quick snack by the water. If you’re with that special someone, this plan should put a smile on their face.

Go for a swim. Finding a swimming lake near Lake Oswego will offer tons of fun for the big kids and little ones, or plenty of exercise for those looking to be active in between getting that perfect golden tan. Make sure to do your research and verify that your lake has a nice swimming area and a sandy beach to spread out on prior to packing the car and the family! Admit it, even the nicest swimming pool doesn’t hold a candle to a magnificent public beach on a lake near Lake Oswego!

Start paddling. For those in search of some exercise, load up your preferred vessel and chart your course to a lake near Lake Oswego that has a public launch and get out and enjoy nature’s beauty in all it’s glory.

How to Prepare for a Day at the Lake

Your plan for a lake getaway can vary quite a bit when you take into consideration which lake you’re going to, when you decide to go, and what you want to do while you’re there. For your convenience we’ve assembled a rundown of popular lake items for you to use as a checklist for your getaway.

Common lake items

For a day spent on the water you will likely need to bring along several of the things in our list below so that you’ll be safe, comfortable, and getting the most out of your getaway.

  • Snacks
  • Bathing suits
  • Sunglasses
  • Towels
  • Plates, cups and utensils
  • Cords and a charger for portable devices
  • A cooler with water
  • Sunblock
  • A receptacle for trash
  • Dry shirt

More lake items

Consider your planned activities for the day and who will be joining you, the list of gear will likely be helpful and adding to your checklist prior to leaving.

  • Fishing and boating licenses
  • Your tackle box
  • Worms or other bait
  • Rafts and floaties
  • Fishing poles
  • Legal flotation devices
  • Baby gear (if necessary)
  • Kindle
  • Something to clean up with like sanitizers or wet wipes
  • Wine key

Staying Safe on a Lake

While the water can provide fun during a day on the lake, everyone’s safety is the most important part of your getaway. Following a few standard safety tips that can ensure that your whole group remains safe on the water.

  • Avoid plants that can sting or cause allergic reactions
  • Stay close to shore and avoid areas with shallow water or where the current is strong
  • Make sure you have a life jacket for every person on the boat
  • Make sure no one swims alone
  • Avoid alcohol consumption before swimming, as it can impair judgment and result in drowning
  • Be aware of your surroundings and know where you are in relation to land
  • Use sunscreen, even if it’s cloudy outside

Some More Tips

Some people may not get a chance to visit the lakes near Lake Oswego and might have a few questions about how to make the most of their time there. Of course, any body of water is going to have unique qualities and trappings, but it’s worth noting a few things to review while making plans which could help put together a trip your whole family will remember.

  1. Pay attention to the beaches. If you pick the wrong time of year, occasionally beaches might be swarmed with beachgoers. If you want more space to spread out, do some digging on multiple nearby beaches and lakes to see if you can find one that’s less crowded if you want a more relaxing vibe. If you want to be where the party’s at, search out the biggest, most popular sandy party scene!
  2. Rent a boat. Many lakes have nearby marinas that offer boat rentals. Boats are expensive to own, but a rental will still allow you to enjoy a relaxing day of fishing or taking the kids out for some wakeboarding or tubing. Using a search engine can typically help you find a marina that has what you need.
  3. Maximize unique local resources. When there’s time for a longer getaway, look for local state parks and recreation areas that offer the ability to camp directly on the water at an affordable price.