For a quiet paddle perfect for beginners, check out Lake Lytle. This 65-acre lake is located just off of Highway 101 in Rockaway Beach. It’s a calm, accessible, and scenic spot, with a mixture of birdlife and fishing enthusiasts sharing the space amicably.
The advantage of this lake for new kayakers or paddle boarders is the relatively calm surface. Unlike other lakes in the area, it’s not directly fed by an ocean stream, and is only ruffled by boats and wind. True beginners, know that the company Kayak Tillamook schedules kayaking classes in this lake if you're looking for a little guidance.
But if fishing is more to your fancy, you’re in luck – Lake Lytle supports a healthy population of smallmouth bass, perch and stocked rainbow trout. And a public fishing dock, plus several bank access points, means fisher folk gather along the banks at certain seasons.
Visitors should note that located directly off Highway 101, and the only parking is along the shoulder highway. Motorized boats are allowed, so if you wish to avoid boats, jump over to nearby Crescent Lake, which is smaller and shallower and has a motor boat ban. Camping by the lakeside is prohibited, but there is a 265-site campground at Nehalem Bay State Park nearby.
Access to the lake is free.