Oregon is known for its stunning lakes, pristine forests, and picturesque landscapes, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. But for some adventurers, these beautiful bodies of water are hiding a slithering secret: an unsettling number of snakes.
If you’re planning a visit to some of Oregon’s most popular lakes, you might want to be aware of the creatures lurking beneath the surface.
From venomous rattlesnakes to elusive water snakes, here are some of Oregon’s lakes that are known for their snake infestations—guaranteeing that you’ll never look at water the same way again.
1. Clear Lake: A Hidden Snake Paradise
Clear Lake, located in the Cascade Mountains, is a stunning destination for boating, fishing, and hiking. It’s surrounded by towering trees and rugged terrain, offering a serene environment that attracts visitors year-round. However, what many don’t know is that Clear Lake is home to an alarming population of Western Red-Bellied Snakes. These non-venomous, semi-aquatic creatures thrive in the lake’s lush wetlands and rocky shorelines.
While these snakes are not dangerous to humans, their sheer number can be overwhelming. During the warmer months, locals and visitors alike report sightings of dozens of snakes swimming or basking on rocks by the shore. Clear Lake’s rich ecosystem, filled with amphibians and insects, provides the perfect environment for these snakes to flourish. For those unaccustomed to the sight of slithering creatures, Clear Lake’s snake population might be enough to make you think twice before taking a dip.
2. Klamath Lake: Home to Some of Oregon’s Largest Snakes
As Oregon’s largest freshwater lake, Klamath Lake stretches over 60,000 acres and serves as an important habitat for a wide variety of wildlife. It’s a popular spot for bird watching, boating, and fishing. However, the lake’s large size means it also provides ample space for a different kind of wildlife: snakes.
Klamath Lake is home to a notable population of Northern Pacific Rattlesnakes, one of the most venomous snake species in the Pacific Northwest. Though rattlesnakes tend to avoid human contact, their presence in and around the lake can be a serious concern for anyone planning to spend time near the water. The snakes are typically found near the shoreline or in the surrounding areas where the vegetation is thick and provides cover for them.
Though rattlesnake bites are rare, they do pose a danger to hikers and campers in the area. The snakes are more active during the warmer months, and they sometimes venture onto beaches or trails, making it essential to stay vigilant while exploring the lake’s shores. Given the presence of these venomous creatures, visitors to Klamath Lake may want to think twice before stepping into the water.
3. Waldo Lake: A Snake Lover’s Dream
Waldo Lake, another gem in Oregon’s Cascade Mountains, is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking views. It’s one of the largest and cleanest lakes in the state, drawing tourists who are eager to enjoy the lake’s beauty and tranquility. However, those who are brave enough to explore the area may encounter an unsettling surprise: an abundance of Pacific Garter Snakes.
These non-venomous snakes thrive in Waldo Lake’s wetlands, where they can be seen swimming through the calm waters, hunting for small fish and amphibians. While not as dangerous as rattlesnakes, the sight of multiple garter snakes swimming in the lake can be enough to deter many visitors from taking a swim. Their numbers have been increasing in recent years, possibly due to the pristine water quality and diverse aquatic life in the area.
The snake population at Waldo Lake has become a topic of conversation among outdoor enthusiasts, with some claiming the lake is becoming a snake lover’s dream. For others, however, it’s a place they prefer to avoid altogether, especially when they’re looking to swim or kayak. Still, those who venture to Waldo Lake should prepare for the possibility of encountering these slithering creatures, especially in the warmer months when the snakes are most active.
4. Suttle Lake: A Swampy Haven for Snakes
Located just outside of Sisters, Oregon, Suttle Lake is a tranquil spot for fishing, kayaking, and camping. It’s known for its peaceful atmosphere, surrounded by dense forest and expansive meadows. However, the lake’s swampy edges make it a prime location for snakes, particularly the harmless but abundant Western Yellow-Bellied Racer.
This species of snake is incredibly fast and can be spotted frequently along the edges of the lake as it hunts for small mammals and reptiles. While the Yellow-Bellied Racer poses no direct threat to humans, their quick movements and presence near the water can be startling for those not accustomed to seeing snakes in the wild. The swampy environment around Suttle Lake provides the perfect conditions for these snakes to thrive, and they are often seen basking in the sun on the lake’s shoreline.
Though they’re not venomous, the sight of multiple snakes in and around the water may cause some to reconsider their plans for a swim. Visitors to Suttle Lake should be aware of the snakes in the area and exercise caution when venturing near the water.
5. Lake of the Woods: Snakes, Sun, and Serenity
Lake of the Woods, nestled in southern Oregon, is a serene, forested lake perfect for paddleboarding, fishing, and relaxing in nature. However, this idyllic spot is home to a number of snakes, particularly the Common Garter Snake. These snakes can be found swimming through the lake’s calm waters, hunting for prey in the shallow areas.
While the Common Garter Snake is non-venomous and generally harmless, its presence in the lake is noticeable, especially during the warmer months when the snakes come out to bask in the sun. These snakes are often seen near the lake’s shorelines, making them a common sight for those who venture out onto the water.
For visitors looking to enjoy a peaceful day on the lake, it’s important to be aware of the snakes that share this tranquil environment. Though they’re not dangerous, their abundance and visibility in the area may make some reconsider their swim or paddleboarding plans.
Conclusion
While Oregon’s lakes are undoubtedly beautiful, they also come with a hidden danger that many are unaware of: snakes. From the venomous rattlesnakes of Klamath Lake to the abundant garter snakes of Waldo Lake, these lakes are home to a variety of slithering creatures that thrive in their waters. For those who are brave enough to face the potential snake encounters, these lakes offer a unique experience to explore nature in all its wild forms. However, for those who have a fear of snakes, it may be wise to plan your next outdoor adventure elsewhere—unless, of course, you’re ready to face the snakes of Oregon’s waters head-on.