Unity Lake

Unity Lake State Recreation Site offers camping and water recreation at a reservoir in the Blue Mountains of eastern Oregon. The lake provides relief from summer heat with swimming, boating, and fishing opportunities. The scenic setting in the pine-forested mountains makes it a popular summer destination.

The lake supports fish populations including trout and bass. Waterfowl use the lake during migration. Mule deer and elk are seen in surrounding forests. Ospreys and eagles hunt over the water. The area provides important wildlife habitat.

Ponderosa pine forest surrounds the lake with native grasses and sagebrush in drier areas. Riparian vegetation grows along the inlet streams. The forest provides shade and wind protection for campsites.

Unity Lake is a reservoir created by a dam on the Burnt River. The surrounding terrain is typical Blue Mountains landscape of volcanic rocks and pine forest. The high elevation contributes to cool summer temperatures.

The area experiences a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. Summer temperatures reach the 80s-90s°F, making lake recreation appealing. Winter brings snow and freezing temperatures. The lake may freeze in winter.

The Unity area was home to indigenous peoples who utilized the Burnt River and surrounding mountains. Gold mining brought early settlers. Agriculture and ranching developed after mining declined. The reservoir was created for irrigation.

Unity Lake State Recreation Site was established to provide public recreation access to the reservoir. Oregon State Parks maintains campground and day-use facilities. The park serves visitors from throughout eastern Oregon.

Swimming, boating, and fishing are the primary attractions. The lake is stocked with trout. Water skiing and other water sports are popular. The forested setting provides camping and picnicking opportunities.

The park offers 35 campsites with electrical hookups. A boat ramp provides lake access. Located near the town of Unity in Baker County. The park is open seasonally, typically May through October.

The park provides recreation while protecting lake water quality. Fish stocking maintains the fishery. The surrounding forest provides wildlife habitat. The site demonstrates multiple-use management of a reservoir.