Kayak and fish at Henry Hagg Lake, Oregon
Henry Hagg Lake, nestled in Oregon's scenic Willamette Valley wine country just west of Portland, offers a wide variety of beautiful outdoor activities for Pacific Northwest nature-lovers…
Earlier this week, I enjoyed an afternoon paddle with our new Oru Lake Sport kayak at Henry Hagg… and there are definitely several key things to know before you plan your trip, especially in regards to safety.
Looking to experience one of the most popular lakes in the Portland, Oregon area this summer and beyond? Here’s your ultimate guide to exploring the Henry Hagg Lake’s recreational opportunities, from kayaking and fishing to hiking and more…
Brief history of Henry Hagg Lake
Constructed in the 1970s following the building of Scoggins Dam, Henry Hagg Lake was developed to support flood control, irrigation, and as a municipal water source. This man-made lake is named after Henry Hagg, an influential local figure in agricultural water management.
Henry Hagg Lake has a maximum depth of 110 feet. This depth supports a variety of water-based activities and helps manage the lake's role in flood control and water supply.
Visitor information
Directions
It’s easy to get to Henry Hagg Lake, Oregon. Located about 30 miles southwest of Portland, it’s a convenient day trip for city dwellers or anyone exploring the Willamette River Valley and wine country. From my home in PDX, it took an hour each way.
Henry Hagg Lake and Scoggins Valley Park Address:
50250 SW Scoggins Valley Road, Gaston, OR 97119
Pro tip: Be aware of peak travel times if you’ll be driving on 26… This route can get quite backed up on a friday afternoon with folks heading west to the Oregon coast, or on weekdays anytime between 4-6pm with the Beaverton area commuter traffic.
We snapped this photo of the Henry Hagg Lake pay station in June, 2024.
Hours of operation and cost of entry
Henry Hagg Lake is open sunrise to sunset, and it requires a parking pass to enter.
The cost $7.00 for day use and both cash credit cards are accepted in the pay machine at the entrance. You must keep your receipt on the dash of your car for proof of payment and to avoid any parking tickets.
The pay machine I used via the address directions above did not provide senior, veteran, or annual parking passes.
Pro tip: Never leave valuables in your car, and always lock it (even if you’re just quickly running to a restroom facility!). According to some hikers on Trails.com, there has been an influx of car break-ins at the Lake in the last year or two.
Park facilities
Henry Hagg Lake and Scoggins Valley Park boast numerous picnic areas, two boat launching facilities, and is equipped for disabled visitors.
During my day trip this summer, I drove around most of the lake to explore and talk to fisherman, and eventually launched my kayak from the beautiful Sain Creek park point.
Popularity and usage
Henry Hagg Lake is heavily used, and it can get quite busy (especially on weekends). Planning an early visit can provide a quieter lake experience. But be prepared for anglers, music, families, teens, paddlers of all kinds, people bar-b-quing and picnicking – it’s a popular spot!
Weather and water conditions
For the latest updates, visitors should check local weather forecasts and the Washington County Parks website. Water temperature and levels can vary widely. (I’ve also heard some anglers use Omnia Fishing as a resource).
Things to do at Henry Hagg Lake
There are countless activities to enjoy at Hagg Lake, including:
Over 15 miles of hiking trails
Beautiful lake for flat water kayaking, paddling, stand up paddle boarding
Disc golf
Fishing (there are even fish cleaning stations)
Picnicking (tons of picnic tables and a full size pavilion at Sain Creek)
Wildlife decks for bird watching (I actually saw a bald eagle flying above my kayak!)
Boating (two launch points)
Paddling
With multiple access points for launching kayaks, stand up paddle boards, and canoers, paddlers can enjoy Henry Hagg Lake. Kayak rental options are available seasonally on-site for those without their own equipment. Call 503-846-7000 between Memorial Day to Labor Day to serve kayaks for a large group (otherwise they’re first come, first serve).
Free life jackets are available for everyone to use
I saw PFD and life jacket stations in many different points during my park day (there are 14 stations). There were plenty available, of all sizes, and all are for free use, for everyone. Always wear a life jacket while paddling – Especially at Henry Hagg Lake.
There’s no real beach at this water destination, and there are sudden 4-feet drop offs and sudden hazards. This lake is a working reservoir, not a pool. The water can also be very cold.
Parents especially should always monitor children. People die from swimming and paddling and drowning in this lake – even within the last 1-2 years. When I was getting into my kayak at Sain Creek, I slipped and fell into the water myself, so accidents happen and we should all plan ahead for possible risk.
Protect yourself and your loved ones by fitting one of the free and widely-available life jackets at the one of the 14 PFD loaner stations at the lake (photos below are from the Sain Creek park location in June, 2024). Learn more about water safety at Henry Hagg Lake and the best kayaking accessories for a safe paddling experience.
Map of where to kayak at Hagg Lake, graphic credit Washington County Parks, Oregon
I brought our Oru Lake Sport folding kayak.
Fishing
Fish Species: Henry Hagg Lake is in-season stocked with rainbow trout (here’s the ODFW fish stocking schedule). The lake is also home to bass and yellow perch, making this warm water lake an angler’s haven.
I talked with several fisherman while I was kayaking the other day… At least three folks had successfully caught multiple trout.
One gentleman informed me that while about 90% of fish caught in the lake are trout, Henry Hagg Lake is the location of the state record smallmouth bass!
Regulations: A valid Oregon fishing license is required, and all state and local fishing regulations apply.
Fishing reports: For current fishing conditions and updates, anglers should consult the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife's reports.
Conclusion
Henry Hagg Lake is a versatile Portland-area destination that combines the tranquility of nature with a great variety of outdoor activities. There’s something for everyone to enjoy here. Whether you're a seasoned angler, a kayaking aficionado, or someone who loves to hike, Hagg Lake offers a picturesque setting to reconnect with nature. Just make sure you wear a life jacket if you go near the water.
For more detailed information and updates, visit the following resources:
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