Bend, OR

South Twin is home to numerous summer visitors who flock here to picnic (yes, even in the winter), rent boats, swim, fish, hike, camp, run rampant, spend money at the store or whatever. This is a great place for kids as there are many shallow spots all the way around the lake. It is one of Central Oregon’s hot spots for lakes.

The entire lake is hikable and for those who like the longer hikes, there is a trail that leads to it’s sister, North Twin Lake. Across the road is Sheeps Bridge and Wickiup Reservoir, which sits upon the Deschutes River. Some of the greatest fishing in Central Oregon is done around these parts. There are numerous trails all over and one that does go around the lake in its entirety. If you are launching any kind of float device, the easiest place is by using the public boat launch, you’ll see it as you pull into the parking lot and you can pretty much pull your float out at any given point on the lake. On the North side of the lake, against the shore, is a nice and quiet, virtually uninhabited place from people where you can quietly rest in your boat, (no motors) kayak or any other float device, among the reeds and watch the myriad different dragonflies, unfortunately I no longer have my shots of these intricate beauties. This area is a breeding ground for dragonflies. Despite being told for years that dragonflies bite, I have never been bitten here and to watch the graceful intricateness of these small creatures is a very relaxing moment. Sunsets and sunrises are also a small treat. As the sunlight hits the water in it’s various positions, while being upon the lake, makes a person feel that much smaller and more at peace with themselves in this vast world. South Twin also has full amenities to include showers, cabin rentals, a full restaurant, a convenience store, and an RV park.

This is just an all around great spot. For any further information, feel free to visit their website. Even though the store and other main facilities are only open to from April to October you can still visit, cross country ski or just simply watch. From Bend go 30 miles south on Hwy. 97 to Wickiup Junction, then 10 miles west on Burgess Rd, when you come to the stop sign turn left then continue 4.6 miles on Rd. 42 or otherwise known as Cascade Lakes Hwy you will see the sign, approximately 2 miles, that will direct you to the lakes.