Henry Hagg Lake, in Gaston, is a nice place to fish on cloudy days and refreshing in sunny hot days.

Located in the Scoggins Valley Park, a 2,500-acre park, this lake is a nice option less than one hour from Portland downtown for water activities like fishing, swimming and boat rides. Also, during the high season, they rent kayaks and stand-up paddle boards. There are two boat launching facilities, over 14 miles of trails, a disc golf course, picnic areas around the lake, numerous parking lots, some adult life jackets available for free at some places next to the water, and restrooms.

There are different options where you can park your car and enjoy the view and the lake:

At Elkes Recreational Area there are ADA-friendly restrooms, some picnic tables, and a non-motorized watercraft launch.

At Saint Creek Recreational Area there are two reservable picnic areas (one is a beautiful large picnic shelter), restrooms, and trail access.

At Henry Hagg Lake Parking Land, there are two parking lot areas, watercraft rentals during the summer season, restrooms, a boat ramp, more trail access, and a beautiful semi-covered pier.

At Scoggins Creek Recreational Area, there are some picnic tables, and restrooms. I highly recommend this place for kids who want play in the water. The water in this area is clean and shallow, and you can see where you are stepping, so it is safe for them. Also, there are some rocks where you can sit, lie down, or have a snack, and watch your kids.

Finally, the last one is the Eagle Point Recreational Area. There are more picnic tables, restrooms, parking lot, trail access, and another boat ramp. It is pretty close to the entrance where you pay the required parking pass. The prices, for now, is $7 for the daily pass or $60 for the annual pass. Seniors and veterans have discounts. Have fun!