With so many different lakes all scattered throughout the Deschutes National Forest, it can be hard to decide which one could be the right one for you. Some may be too big, others too small, and some just too popular. If this is you and you’re not sure where to go, then I would highly recommend visiting Little Cultus Lake—the best kept secret of the forest for fishing, hiking, and fun! Though small, Little Cultus Lake, Oregon is one of the best vacation escapes for those looking for incredible fishing.
About Little Cultus Lake
Quietly tucked away in the Deschutes National Forest and just to the southwest of Mt. Bachelor lies Little Cultus Lake, a 175-acre getaway that will provide you with serenity and peace of mind from your everyday life. Little Cultus Lake is surrounded by brimming forests and towering mountains which will provide you with some of the most majestic views that you’ll be able to find anywhere in the Bend area. The lake itself also has a gentle sloping bottom, which helps to make it ideal for wading and swimming.
Some of the Best Fishing You’ll Find Anywhere
Little Cultus Lake is one of the lesser known fishing spots in the area, which means there’s a good chance you may have much of the fish all to yourself! You’ll typically find brook trout or rainbow trout (primarily) in the lake. One thing to note about the lake is that there is a 10 MPH speed limit for boats.
Incredible Hiking with Majestic Views
Many people come to the Little Cultus Lake, Oregon area to absorb the majestic and beautiful scenery around them, and one of the best ways to experience this is with a good ol’ fashioned hike! The primary hiking trail by Little Cultus Lake is the Cultus Mountain and Lake Loop Trail, an 11.9-mile loop trail that is rated by many as moderate. The trail is moderately trafficked with mountain bikers, trail runners, and hikers, and the trail is also available for dogs to use as well.
Plenty of Camping Ground Available
The primary camping ground for Little Cultus Lake is Little Cultus Campground, a popular site with a boat ramp that leads right into the lake! This campground is very popular, as many of the campsites are well shaded by the forests surrounding it, and the grounds are pet friendly as long as the animals are kept on their leashes.