Oregon's 'Gem Of The Cascades' Is A Family Resort On A Lake For Year-Round Fun And Beauty

Plenty of people have cruised the Pacific Northwest on a road trip to discover the mysterious beauty of the state. With its thick, temperate rainforests, snow-capped mountains, and shimmering lakes, it's easy to see why this area is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. Nestled among the Cascade Mountains and about 37 miles from Crater Lake National Park, where you'll find some of the most beautiful hikes in Oregon, you'll find Diamond Lake: the "Gem of the Cascades." Both the lake and Diamond Peak are named for John Diamond, an Irish immigrant who happened upon the lake in 1852 while standing on the peak searching for a different route over the mountains.

For decades, Diamond Lake and the surrounding area have attracted visitors year-round for everything from fishing and boating in the summer to skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. Today, the 3,031-acre lake is part of a popular family resort surrounded by the Umpqua National Forest and is host to endless fun and recreation. Plus, Diamond Lake Resort has accommodations for every price point and adventure level.

If you're traveling with a big group or just prefer a more luxurious experience, the Retreat Cabin is ideal. It sleeps up to 20 people comfortably and includes a full kitchen and game room. But best of all, it has huge windows and a large deck that gives guests sweeping views of the lake and mountains at all times. Smaller two-bedroom lakefront duplex cabins are available that accommodate up to six guests. Each comes with a fully-stocked kitchen and bathroom with a shower. Visiting in the winter? Check out one of the eight cozy two-bedroom cabins in the woods that feature a fireplace. The property also features several cabins with wood-burning stoves and even a motel for smaller groups of two to four.

For dedicated road warriors, there's an RV park on the southeast shore of the lake offering 110 sites with full hookups and 30- or 50-amp service. RV guests have access to the resort, the lodge, and the marina store. If you prefer to be one with nature, during the summer the resort offers several primitive campsites on the east shore of Diamond Lake starting at just $16 a night. They're operated by the United States Forest Service, so reservations must be made through the USFS recreation website.

The winter months also bring lots of snowy fun. You can explore 7 miles of ski trails or 35 miles of backcountry trails if you're more experienced. Ski rentals start at just $35 a day. If you're traveling with kiddos (over 36 inches tall), they will love the snow tubing hill. The ride begins with a 470-foot lift up the hill and ends with a ride down one of eight lanes. Keep in mind all ticket sales for snow tubing are online. Of course, one of the most popular ways to explore the trails is by snowmobile. Rental rates start at $325 for a two-hour rental, and guests must be 21 or older to rent.

During the warmer months, the resort is full of opportunities for watersports. Diamond Lake has long been known as the spot in the state for freshwater trout fishing. Guests can rent aluminum fishing boats for a half or full day and stock up on bait at the Marina Store. Paddle boats, kayaks, and canoes are also available for rental by the hour or half hour. And if you want to turn it into a party, you can even rent a patio boat for anywhere from six to 12 people. If you prefer to explore on land, take advantage of the 12 miles of paved lakeside paths. You can bring your own bike or visit the marina to rent one of the resort's mountain bikes. All rentals include a helmet. Whenever you decide to go, be prepared for a busy but endlessly fun experience.