Lava Lake (Oregon)

Lava Lake lies in the Cascade Range about 25 mi west-southwest of Bend in the U.S. state of Oregon. It is a close neighbor of Little Lava Lake, from which it is separated by solidified lava. Lava Lake is at an elevation of 4740 ft in the Deschutes National Forest. The lake covers 368 acre to an average depth of 20 ft.

Lava Lake, Little Lava Lake, and other nearby lakes are volcanogenic, having formed after lava flows from Mount Bachelor altered drainage patterns in the area. Solidified lava flows are visible along the shorelines of both lakes, and the volcanic peaks Broken Top and South Sister can be seen to the north.

Recreation
Fish in the lake include rainbow trout that grow to 24 in and brook trout that sometimes reach 19 in. Controlled populations of tui chub also live in the lake.

A United States Forest Service campground and a private resort are near the lake, and Little Lava Lake also has campsites. Amenities around the lake include parking areas, two boat ramps, and a fish cleaning station.

Trails in the area offer opportunities for hiking. One trail follows the east side of the lake, while another heads south into Three Sisters Wilderness and on to Williamson Mountain.