Top 20 Lakes in Coos County

Tenmile Lakes are a hub for various water activities. You can enjoy angling for steelhead, rainbow trout, largemouth bass, and more, as it's considered the top largemouth bass fishing destination on the Oregon Coast. The lakes are also ideal for water skiing, wakeboarding, swimming, wading, sailing, and general boating. Facilities include boat ramps, a fishing dock, a kayak launch, and picnic areas.

Yes, Empire Lakes, located within John Topits Park, are perfect for canoeing and kayaking. Gas-powered boats are not permitted, ensuring a tranquil environment. An accessible kayak launch is available, and the lakes are surrounded by protected coastal dunes and forests.

Coos County offers excellent fishing opportunities. Tenmile Lakes are renowned for largemouth bass, steelhead, and trout. Eel Lake is annually stocked with rainbow trout and also has largemouth bass and Coho salmon. Saunders Lake is highly regarded for planted hatchery trout, as well as warm water species like bass and perch.

Yes, several lakes offer family-friendly amenities. William M. Tugman State Park at Eel Lake provides 94 campsites, 16 yurts, a day-use area, a boat ramp, and a fishing dock. Tenmile Lakes also feature boat ramps, picnic tables, horseshoe courts, and restrooms, along with a campground. John Topits Park at Empire Lakes has a sandy beach and extensive trails suitable for families.

The lakes in Coos County are rich in wildlife. Empire Lakes, in particular, are a haven for nature enthusiasts, teeming with diverse waterfowl, various birds, and fish. You might also spot beavers occasionally at places like Lost Pond, and the general area is known for its natural beauty and diverse habitats.

Absolutely. John Topits Park, home to Empire Lakes, features 5.5 miles of pedestrian and cycling trails. William M. Tugman State Park at Eel Lake also offers hiking trails. For more extensive options, you can explore various hiking and cycling routes throughout Coos County.

The warmer months, typically late spring through early fall, are ideal for water activities like swimming, boating, and fishing at Coos County lakes. This is when the weather is most pleasant for enjoying the lakes and their surrounding parks.

Yes, camping is available. William M. Tugman State Park at Eel Lake offers 94 campsites and 16 yurts. Tenmile Lakes also have a campground with RV sites and a sanitary dump station. For specific availability and reservations, it's best to check with the respective park authorities.

John Topits Park, surrounding Empire Lakes, offers 5.5 miles of pedestrian and cycling trails. It also features an accessible kayak launch, a sandy beach at Lower Empire Lake, and a boat ramp. The park provides a quiet environment as gas-powered boats are not permitted.

Saunders Lake is highly regarded for its excellent fishery, particularly for planted hatchery trout, including larger 'pounder' trout in the fall. Anglers can also find warm water species like largemouth bass, yellow perch, bluegill, sunfish, and crappie. The lake is regularly stocked, and Saunders Lake County Park provides a boat ramp and picnic area for convenient access.

Tenmile Lakes offer handicap-accessible service docks, making them more accessible for visitors with mobility concerns. John Topits Park at Empire Lakes also features an accessible kayak launch, providing opportunities for water recreation.

While John Topits Park offers cycling trails, for dedicated mountain biking, you can explore the broader Coos County area. There are various MTB trails available, such as those found in Moose Brook State Park, which is known for its mountain biking opportunities.

Coos County lakes are nestled in diverse natural settings. Tenmile Lakes are characterized by their large, shallow, and highly productive freshwater system surrounded by mountains. Empire Lakes are cradled by protected coastal dunes and lush forests. Eel Lake is notable for its two long, narrow, U-shaped arms and steep, timber-covered slopes. These features contribute to the region's scenic beauty.