If you enjoy having a lakeside public park all to yourself, Shorelane Park on the northern edge of Fern Ridge Reservoir is the place to go. The small park in Lane County, Oregon is managed by the Army Corps of Engineers and located at the dead end of a rural residential road. Most locals are unaware of its existence.
The park has a large dirt lot suitable for boaters to park their vehicle and trailer. Two tables placed near the shoreline provide scenic spots for a picnic. I have visited the park several times in the spring, summer, and fall and never encountered another person there. There is plenty of grass to run around on and throw a football or frisbee.
The primitive park even has a maintained pit toilet restroom. The park's hours aren't posted and I've found the entrance gate locked often. If that's the case, park at the side of the road without blocking the gate. It's a walk of around 100 yards or so to reach the picnic tables and shore.
Directions: Head north on Highway 99 past the Beltline. Turn left on Clear Lake Road. In about 4 1/2 miles, Clear Lake Road will make a sharp curve to the right. Turn left onto Barker Road. When the road ends, turn left onto Shorelane Road. The entrance to the park will be at the end of the road on the right.
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