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Lake Billy Chinook is the highlight of the area. Created by Round Butte Dam, it fills the canyons of the Crooked, Metolius and Deschutes Rivers. Within these three large arms are 72 miles of shoreline, supporting fish habitats for bass, trout, salmon, whitefish, suckers, minnows and dace. Rugged hills and a diverse coniferous forest surround the lake, providing homes for mammals such as mule deer, coyote, black-tailed jackrabbit and cougars.
Recreation: Fishing tops the list of recreational activities for visitors. Water enthusiasts of all types will enjoy the opportunities available at nearby Perry South Campground. Motorized and non-motorized boats share the vicinity with swimmers and water skiers braving the cold, clear waters of Lake Billy Chinook.
Nearby: Visitors may want to explore the Tam-a-lau Trail, a scenic hike that starts on a peninsula at the confluence of the Crooked River and the Deschutes River in Cove Palisades State Park. Under the designation of a Wild and Scenic River, nearby Metolius River is nestled in a forested valley west of Mt. Jefferson. It's clear, cold and constant waters support fly-fishing and whitewater boating. Lava Lands Visitor Center in nearby Bend, Oregon, offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the diverse landscape and history of the area through interpretive programs and exhibits.