Willow Lake, OR

Willow Lake is a popular southern Oregon reservoir which stores the waters of Willow Creek, a tributary of the South Fork of Big Butte Creek. It is commonly known as Willow Creek Reservoir and this name appears routinely on maps. The 52-foot high, earthfill dam was completed in 1952 by the Medford Water Commission to store water as part of their municipal water system. Other uses are for irrigation and recreation. The contributing drainage basin is primarily within the Rogue River National Forest and drains the west slopes of Mt. McLoughlin. However, there are many sections of privately owned land within the broader National Forest boundaries. The lake itself is on county land, which has been developed by Jackson County as the Willow Lake Recreation Area. It includes facilities for camping and picnicking as well as a paved boat ramp. A small, private resort is also located on the shore.

Willow Lake is heavily fished; kokanee were stocked about 1960 and have produced very well. Rainbow and cutthroat trout are also found, although in lesser numbers. It also contains largemouth bass and black crappie.