One Of Oregon's Best Lakes For Trout Fishing Offers Lakeside Campsites And Scenic Trails

Tucked away in the volcanic flatlands of the High Cascade mountains, Miller Lake provides such a natural oasis for trout fishing and an escape into the heart of Oregon's Cascade Mountain Range, that it might need to be on your list for your next scenic Oregon road trip. Located in western Klamath County, about halfway between Bend and Klamath Falls, this more than 600-acre lake sits at an elevation of 5,600 feet in the heart of the Winema National Forest. Although it's slightly off the beaten path compared to other Cascade lakes, Miller Lake is a favorite among seasoned anglers and those looking to escape into nature in Oregon. 

Digit Point Campground, on the lake's southern shore, provides an idyllic base for exploration. With 65 large shorefront campsites, many offering stunning views of the lake and nearby Mount Thielsen, this campground invites visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquil beauty of the forest. Open from late June through mid-October, weather permitting, the campground boasts amenities like picnic tables, potable water, campfire rings, and flush toilets. Beyond fishing, it's a hub for activities such as boating, biking, swimming, and hiking, making it a well-rounded destination for movement in nature.

Miller Lake is renowned as one of Oregon's premier destinations for trout fishing, offering year-round opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. The lake is regularly stocked with Brook trout, while rainbow trout and kokanee salmon also populate its waters. Its true claim to fame, however, lies in its brown trout catches — considered one of the best in the state. Anglers often reel in impressive specimens, with some brown trout reaching upwards of 26 inches long.

Whether you prefer to fly-fish, troll, or bait fish, Miller Lake provides for all. Anglers can cast their lines from the shore, pontoons, or small boats, with evening and nighttime proving particularly fruitful for catching the sought-after brown trout. Early summer and fall are prime seasons, and the lake's 24-hour fishing availability makes it unique among Oregon's trout fisheries. The daily limit is five trout, allowing for a combination of browns and rainbow, and an additional limit of 25 for kokanee, an ample amount sure to make any angler leave happy.

In addition to fishing, the lake's trails offer an enchanting way to explore the surrounding wilderness. The Miller Lake Trail, a 2.5-mile route along the shoreline, is easily accessible from Digit Point Campground. This trail links up with the Maidu Lake Trail on the northwest side of the lake, allowing hikers to either complete a 5-mile loop around the lake or venture west into the Mount Thielsen Wilderness. For an ambitious adventure, take the Maidu Lake Trail to its intersection with the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail for endless possibilities of wilderness exploration.

Miller Lake offers a serene retreat, packed with scenic Oregon hiking trails, lakeside camping, and exceptional trout fishing opportunities. Just don't forget to pack very strong bug spray – 100% deet — as mosquitos are abundant during the summer months!