Endless adventure A haven for lovers of the great outdoors
V
isitors to the historic town of Cottage Grove will find it and the surrounding area to be a gold mine of activity and exploration for all ages. There are nuggets to be found in both the town and country for those willing to search them out. The entire family will want to explore our historic downtown with its beautiful city parks, colorful murals, museums and small businesses. Recreation opportunities abound for those who are inclined to get out and explore the countryside, including a covered bridge tour and the Bohemia mining district. There are two U.S. Army Corps of Engineer reservoirs located outside of town that draw locals and visitors from around the state to their shores. Serene Cottage Grove Lake is a short five-mile drive south of town going out Sixth Street to London and Reservoir roads. The lake is three miles long and covers 1,158 acres when it’s full. Tent and RV camping are available at Pine Meadows Campground, in addition to a nearby primitive campground. Swimming, fishing and picnicking are also available at Shortridge and Wilson Creek Parks.
Dorena Lake is six miles east of Cottage Grove by way of Row River
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Cottage Grove Community Guidebook 2021 • Cottage Grove Sentinel •
(541) 942-3325
Road. This large lake covers 1,900 acres when full and features camping, a large boat ramp and picnic area at nearby Baker Bay Park. Schwarz Park is nearby and also offers camping. Umpqua National Forest boasts a wide selection of hiking trails, campgrounds, picnicking spots, waterfalls and places to commune with nature. The forest covers 984,602 acres of mountain woodlands and is about 15 miles east of town, beyond Dorena Lake. The Row River Trail is a popular Rails-to-Trails project that begins in Cottage Grove and winds 17 miles along the Row River, passing Dorena Lake along the way. It is a safe, scenic path that is paved for walking, biking or horseback riding. The gentle hills are possible for most stages of fitness, and the gorgeous scenery makes the effort worthwhile. Culture comes in many forms and includes performances at the Cottage Theatre’s beautiful state-of-the-art, $1 million facility that attracts and features local actors in a variety of plays. Other annual events include the rodeo and Bohemia Mining Days celebration in July, the WOE Heritage Fair in August, and the December lighting of the Main Street Christmas tree.
