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Dexter State Recreation Site

Dexter State Recreation Site Overview


Dexter State Recreation Site is a beautiful park located in the Willamette Valley of Oregon, just 20 miles southeast of Eugene. The park is situated on the shores of Dexter Reservoir, which is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming. The park covers 62 acres and offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors of all ages.

One of the main attractions of Dexter State Recreation Site is the reservoir itself. The reservoir is a popular spot for fishing, with a variety of fish species including rainbow trout, largemouth bass, and crappie. Visitors can also rent boats and kayaks to explore the reservoir, or simply relax on the sandy beach and take a swim in the cool waters.

In addition to water activities, Dexter State Recreation Site also offers a variety of hiking trails. The park has several miles of trails that wind through the forested hills surrounding the reservoir. These trails offer stunning views of the water and the surrounding landscape, and are a great way to explore the natural beauty of the area.

For those interested in history, Dexter State Recreation Site also has a small museum that showcases the history of the area. The museum features exhibits on the Native American groups that once lived in the area, as well as the early settlers who came to the Willamette Valley in the 1800s.

Overall, Dexter State Recreation Site is a wonderful destination for anyone looking to enjoy the natural beauty of Oregon. With its stunning reservoir, hiking trails, and rich history, there is something for everyone to discover and enjoy at this beautiful park.

Visitor’s Experience


Dexter State Recreation Site is a beautiful park located in the heart of Oregon, offering a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages. Families can enjoy a picnic in the park, play on the playground, or take a swim in the lake. Couples can take a romantic stroll along the shoreline, rent a boat, or go fishing. Friends can gather for a game of frisbee or volleyball, or explore the hiking trails. Solo visitors can find peace and solitude in the natural beauty of the park, or take a refreshing swim in the lake.

For families, Dexter State Recreation Site is a great place to spend a day outdoors. The park has a large picnic area with tables and grills, as well as a playground for kids to enjoy. The lake is perfect for swimming, and there are plenty of spots to set up a beach blanket and soak up the sun. Families can also rent a boat and explore the lake together, or go fishing for trout, bass, and catfish.

Couples looking for a romantic getaway will find plenty to do at Dexter State Recreation Site. The park’s beautiful shoreline is perfect for a leisurely stroll, and there are several secluded spots where couples can enjoy a picnic or watch the sunset. Renting a boat is also a great way to spend time together on the water, and fishing can be a fun and relaxing activity for couples to enjoy.

Friends can have a blast at Dexter State Recreation Site, with plenty of activities to keep them entertained. The park has a volleyball court and a large grassy area for playing frisbee or other games. The hiking trails offer a chance to explore the natural beauty of the park, and there are several spots along the lake where friends can relax and enjoy the view.

Solo visitors will find Dexter State Recreation Site to be a peaceful and rejuvenating destination. The park’s natural beauty is a great place to unwind and recharge, and the lake is perfect for a refreshing swim. The hiking trails offer a chance to explore the park’s flora and fauna, and there are several spots along the shoreline where visitors can sit and enjoy the view.

The best times of year to visit Dexter State Recreation Site are in the spring and summer, when the weather is warm and the park is in full bloom. The lake is perfect for swimming and boating during these months, and the hiking trails are at their most beautiful. Fall can also be a great time to visit, with the changing leaves adding a colorful backdrop to the park’s natural beauty.

Overall, Dexter State Recreation Site is a wonderful destination for visitors of all ages and interests. With its beautiful lake, hiking trails, and picnic areas, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or on your own, you’re sure to have a memorable experience at this Oregon gem.

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