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🏖️ Lake / Reservoir  ·  Central Oregon

Lake Billy Chinook / Cove Palisades State Park

📍 Culver / Madras
Nearest Town
$5 day-use fee (OR State Parks)
Entry Fee
💧 Warm surface water (415 ft deep in places)
Water Temp
🟢 Easy
Difficulty
📅 Summer
Best Season
🏖️ Lake / Reservoir 🟢 Easy $5 day-use fee (OR State Parks)
🌊 About Lake Billy Chinook / Cove Palisades State Park

A 72-mile-shoreline reservoir framed by 400-foot rimrock cliffs where three rivers converge; developed day-use areas offer sandy beaches and floating docks, while boats reach more secluded coves and Kettle Falls.

📋 Visit Details
Entry Fee
$5 day-use fee (OR State Parks)
Water Temperature
💧 Warm surface water (415 ft deep in places)
Best Season
📅 Summer
Reservation
Not Required
Water Type
Large reservoir where Deschutes, Crooked & Metolius rivers meet
Managed By
Oregon State Parks (Cove Palisades SP)
County
Jefferson County, Oregon
Access Difficulty
🟢 Easy
🗺️ Getting There

Address / Access Point:
Cove Palisades State Park, Culver, OR 97734

Access Notes:
Easy at Upper Deschutes/Crooked River day-use areas with sandy beaches, floating docks; more secluded coves need a boat

GPS Coordinates
44.5772, -121.2583
Open in Google Maps →
✅ Before You Go — Checklist
  • ✓
    Check current water conditions — especially after recent rain
  • ✓
    Save GPS coordinates offline before leaving — cell service may be limited
  • $
    Bring cash or card for entry: $5 day-use fee (OR State Parks)
  • ✓
    Pack reef-safe sunscreen, dry bag, water shoes and plenty of drinking water
  • ✓
    Tell someone where you are going before heading to a remote location
  • ✓
    Pack out everything you bring in — leave no trace
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