Howard Prairie Lake

Howard Prairie Lake is a picturesque lake located in Jackson County, Oregon, USA. The lake is situated about 25 miles east of Ashland and nestled in the Cascade Range at an elevation of 4,580 feet above sea level. It covers an area of about 1,950 acres with an average depth of 20 feet. The lake was created by the construction of a dam in 1959, along with Hyatt Reservoir, to provide water for irrigation, flood control and recreational activities. It is fed by the Middle Fork of the Rogue River and Beaver Creek. The lake's water is crystal-clear, and its shoreline is surrounded by a combination of conifers and aspen trees. Howard Prairie Lake offers various outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, camping, horseback riding, hiking, and picnicking. The lake is home to various fish species, including rainbow trout, brown trout, and smallmouth bass, making it a popular spot for anglers. There are several campgrounds and day-use areas around the lake, with boat ramps, picnic tables, and fire rings. The lake is also an excellent spot for bird watching, and it is known to host several species of waterfowl, including bald eagles, ospreys, and Canadian geese. The lake is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the summer months when the weather is warmer, and the water is perfect for swimming and boating.