About Wickiup Reservoir
This is one of central Oregon's best wildlife viewing sites because it attracts such a variety of nesting and/or migrating birds. The relatively shallow reservoir was dammed to store irrigation water that is managed by the North Unit Irrigation District. The water level often lowers dramatically by October. The easiest access for shoreline viewing is at recreation sites or along the 2.6-mile earthen dam. The reservoir covers an area on the Deschutes River which was known as the Wickiup's. It was a camping area for Native Americans during the fall. Wickiup Dam was started in 1939, and was completed in 1949. Wickiup Reservoir is very rich, highly productive, relatively warm water and cooler deep channels generate some of the finest fishing in Central Oregon. Motorized and non-motorized boats are allowed on this body of water. Caution: Winter access is typically hindered by deep snow.For boat launch information see Gull Point Boating Site, North Wickiup Boating Site , North Davis Boating Site, Reservior Boating Site , Sheep Bridge Boating Site, West South Twin Boating Site and Wickiup Butte Boating Site
How to Get There
From Bend: At Jct. of Third St. (Hwy. 97) & Greenwood Ave. (Hwy. 20), travel south on Hwy 97 for 17.2 miles to Vandevert Road (F.R. 42), turn west onto Forest Road 42 for 20.2 miles to Forest Road 4262. Turn south onto Forest Road 4262 for 1.8 miles to Forest Road 4260, turn west onto Forest Road 4260 for 0.2 miles to North Wickiup Campground or for 0.3 miles to Gull Point Campground, turn east onto Forest Road 4260 for 2.8 miles to Wickiup Dam.Total Distance: 40 miles. Estimated Time: 60 minutes
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Wickiup Reservoir
Heading to Wickiup Reservoir? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Wickiup Reservoir?
No central reservation system listed for Wickiup Reservoir. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/236832) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Wickiup Reservoir?
From Bend: At Jct. of Third St. (Hwy. 97) & Greenwood Ave. (Hwy. 20), travel south on Hwy 97 for 17.2 miles to Vandevert Road (F.R. 42), turn west onto Forest Road 42 for 20.2 miles to Forest Road 4262. Turn south onto Forest Road 4262 for 1.8 miles to Forest Road 4260, turn west onto Forest Road 4260 for 0.2 miles to North Wickiup Campground or for 0.3 miles to Gull Point Campground, turn east on…
References & Official Resources
