Emigrant Lake County Park
A 1,476-acre lakefront park near Ashland, Oregon, offering swimming, fishing, camping, and spectacular stargazing.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Emigrant Lake County Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 1,476-acre lakefront park near Ashland, Oregon, offering swimming, fishing, camping, and spectacular stargazing.
"It's a busy lake but fun and beautiful, with warm water perfect for swimming."
🚗 Parking Pass Needed
A Jackson County parking pass is required. Purchase upon entry, usually self-service. :ticket:
⭐ Dark Sky Gem
Perfect for stargazing! Bring binoculars for an even better view of the night sky. :star2:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Swimming Cove & Water Slide
North side of the lake
Splash into the warm summer waters at the swimming cove. While the water slides are currently closed, the cove itself is perfect for a refreshing dip.
Stargazing Paradise
Throughout the park
Experience incredibly dark skies perfect for spotting the Milky Way. It's a fantastic spot for amateur astronomers and anyone seeking a celestial show.
Diverse Fishing Opportunities
Lake waters
Cast a line for a variety of fish including bass, crappie, bluegill, perch, and trout. It's a popular spot for both experienced anglers and beginners.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Enjoy the Water
Park Pass & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Pass Needed
A Jackson County parking pass is required. Purchase upon entry, usually self-service.
⭐ Dark Sky Gem
Perfect for stargazing! Bring binoculars for an even better view of the night sky. :star2:
🎣 Angler's Delight
Wide variety of fish. Don't forget your fishing gear! :fishingpoleand_வத:
⚠️ Water Slides Closed
Manage expectations: water slides are currently shut down. :warning:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Pass Needed
A Jackson County parking pass is required. Purchase upon entry, usually self-service.
⭐ Dark Sky Gem
Perfect for stargazing! Bring binoculars for an even better view of the night sky. :star2:
🎣 Angler's Delight
Wide variety of fish. Don't forget your fishing gear! :fishingpoleand_வத:
⚠️ Water Slides Closed
Manage expectations: water slides are currently shut down. :warning:
🚶♀️ Scenic Walks
Enjoy beautiful views and well-maintained picnic and walking areas. :walking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Emigrant Lake County Park is praised for its beautiful scenery, warm swimming waters, and exceptional stargazing opportunities. Anglers enjoy the diverse fish population, and the park offers good value for its day pass fee. However, some visitors note the closure of water slides and the presence of pokey weeds in certain areas, which can impact family experiences.
"Its a great lake, depending on the time of day and time of year, in the summer theres lots of partiers (some listening to loud inappropriate music) the fishing can be good at times, busy lake but fun and beautiful, lots of paddle boarders and kayaking. Lots of jetskis and other water sports. Water is warm in the summer perfect for swimming. As far as fishing ive caught smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, black crappie, bluegill, yellow perch and rainbow trout here, I know others have caught bullhead and other catfish here as well"
Christopher Bray
"We so enjoyed our camping experience here. It was quiet. It was so dark, w got to see the Milky Way. Very clean and well kept. This is on our list to come back and stay longer."
Claudette Chenevert
"Absolutely beautiful, especially in spring when the lake is full. Day pass price just went from $4 to $6, that is still very cheap for what it has to offer. There isn't usually an employee to collect the fee so it's self service. Karma is real so be sure to do your part in supporting places like this. There isn't usually a lot of people here and they have clean bathrooms and access to water. There is also a nice wall to go climbing, good for beginners and even some more challenging routes for the more experienced. Unfortunately someone graffitied the climbing wall and should be dangled from the top by their ankles because it's not even any good and completely disrespectful."
J Nix
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Emigrant Lake County Park is conveniently located just a 10-minute drive from downtown Ashland, Oregon. Follow local signage for the most direct route.
Information on public transport accessibility is limited. It's generally recommended to travel by personal vehicle for the easiest access to the park and its amenities.
From Ashland, head towards Emigrant Lake. The park is well-marked and easily accessible by car.
Yes, there is ample parking available, especially on the north side of the lake. A Jackson County parking pass is required.
Emigrant Lake is recommended for stargazing due to its open visibility. Drive to the park and find a clear spot away from any artificial lights.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a Jackson County parking pass is required for entry. It can typically be purchased upon arrival at the park.
The day pass price has recently increased from $4 to $6, which is considered very affordable for the amenities offered.
Parking passes are usually available for purchase at the park entrance. Some reviews suggest it's often a self-service system.
Specific discount information is not widely available, but the current day pass fee of $6 is generally considered a good value.
While specific hours aren't always listed, the park is generally accessible for day use and camping. Stargazing is a popular activity, suggesting it's open into the night.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Activities include swimming, fishing, paddleboarding, kayaking, boating, picnicking, and stargazing. The park offers beautiful views and walking areas. +1
Yes, the water is warm in the summer and perfect for swimming. The swimming cove on the north side is a popular spot.
Absolutely! The lake supports various water sports, including boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Boat ramps are available.
Yes, the park has plenty of picnic areas, often shaded with grass, making it ideal for a day out.
It's highly recommended for stargazing due to its dark skies and open visibility, allowing for excellent views of the Milky Way.
🎫 🎣 Fishing & Water Sports
You can catch smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, black crappie, bluegill, yellow perch, and rainbow trout. Catfish have also been reported.
Yes, Emigrant Lake is equipped with boat ramps, making it easy to launch your watercraft for a day on the lake.
The lake is very popular for paddleboarding and kayaking, with warm water and plenty of space to explore.
The water is warm in the summer, making it perfect for swimming and other water activities.
While popular for water sports, some reviews mention 'lots of jetskis and other water sports,' suggesting a lively atmosphere. Be mindful of other users.
🎫 🏕️ Camping & Facilities
Yes, camping is available at Emigrant Lake. Some campsites are lower and treed, while upper sites offer less shade.
Reviews indicate that the campsites are generally clean and well-kept, contributing to a pleasant camping experience.
Campsites offer access to water and clean bathrooms. Some lower sites are shaded, while upper sites are more exposed.
Some visitors found it less ideal for very young children due to the absence of functioning water slides and pokey weeds in some areas.
Camping can be quiet and dark, offering excellent stargazing. Book in advance, especially during peak season, as sites can fill up.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
Despite these points, the park's warm water for swimming and the general beauty of the lake can still provide a fun day out. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds and ensure a more relaxed experience. Bringing a blanket or chairs for shaded areas is a good idea.
🎣 Anglers and Water Sports Enthusiasts
In the summer, the lake's warm water makes it ideal for all water activities, from swimming to more active pursuits. While popular for jetskis and other water sports, the overall atmosphere is generally described as fun and beautiful, making it a great spot for those looking to enjoy a day on the water.
✨ Stargazers and Nature Lovers
Camping here provides an immersive nature experience, often described as quiet and dark, enhancing the stargazing potential. It's an ideal escape for anyone looking to disconnect and appreciate the night sky and the serene environment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Emigrant Lake: A Southern Oregon Oasis
+1The park is particularly noted for its dark night skies, making it an excellent location for stargazing. Many visitors have reported seeing the Milky Way clearly, a testament to the minimal light pollution. For anglers, the lake is a productive fishery, home to a diverse range of species including bass, crappie, bluegill, perch, and trout.
While the park offers many attractions, it's important to note that water slides have been shut down, which may affect family expectations. Additionally, some areas of the campsite can be covered in pokey weeds, and upper sites lack shade. Despite these minor drawbacks, the park's affordability and natural beauty continue to draw visitors seeking outdoor enjoyment.
Planning Your Visit: Passes, Parking, and Practicalities
Parking is generally available, especially on the north side of the lake, which also hosts the swimming cove and picnic areas. The park is well-maintained, with clean bathrooms and access to water, contributing to a comfortable visitor experience.
For those planning to camp, it's recommended to book campsites in advance, particularly during the busy summer months, as they tend to fill up quickly. While the park offers a peaceful camping experience with excellent stargazing opportunities, some areas might be less ideal for very young children due to the terrain and lack of functioning water slides.
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