Detroit Lake

Day-use swim area (Mongold) on Detroit Lake

Detroit Lake (3580 acres; elevation 1569 feet) is formed by the Detroit Dam on the north fork of the Santiam River. The lake is a popular fishing and recreational area less than one hour away (46 miles SE) from Salem, Oregon. The lake is adjacent to state highway 22. This mesotrophic lake stores water for use by the city of Salem and other nearby communities. The lake was intended primarily for flood control and power generation but has become one of the major recreation resources in western Oregon. One of the swimming opportunities is at the Mongold day-use area (an Oregon state park). Detroit Lake is stocked with mainly rainbow trout by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Maximum depth: 440 feet

Average depth: 121 feet

Average volume: 455,000 acre feet

Referenced By