Timothy Lake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Timothy Lake |
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![]() Clear Lake and Timothy Lake
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Location | Clackamas County, Oregon, United States |
Coordinates | 45°07′16″N 121°47′08″W / 45.121022°N 121.785654°W |
Basin countries | United States |
Surface area | 2.17 square miles (5.6 km2) |
Average depth | 45 feet (14 m) |
Max. depth | 80 feet (24 m) |
Surface elevation | 3,227 feet (984 m) |
Timothy Lake is a beautiful lake located about 50 miles (80 kilometers) southeast of Portland, Oregon, in the United States. It is found in Clackamas County. This lake is very close to another lake called Clear Lake. Timothy Lake was created by building a dam across the Oak Grove Fork Clackamas River.
About Timothy Lake
Timothy Lake is a man-made lake, also known as a reservoir. It was formed by holding back the waters of the Oak Grove Fork of the Clackamas River. The lake sits at an elevation of about 3,227 feet (984 meters) above sea level. It covers an area of about 2.17 square miles (5.62 square kilometers). The lake's average depth is around 45 feet (14 meters), but it can be as deep as 80 feet (24 meters) in some spots.
Building the Dam
The Timothy Lake Dam is a large structure made of compacted earth. It was built in 1956 by a company called Portland General Electric. The main purpose of this dam is to control the amount of water flowing downstream. It helps manage the water levels for Lake Harriet, which is located further down the river.
The dam stands about 110 feet (34 meters) tall. It holds back a large amount of water, about 81,000 acre-feet. An acre-foot is the amount of water needed to cover one acre of land to a depth of one foot. Even though the dam holds a lot of water, it does not create electricity itself.
Fun Activities at the Lake
Timothy Lake is a very popular spot, especially during the summer months. Many people visit the lake to enjoy the outdoors and various activities. It is a great place for families and friends to spend time together.
Some of the most popular activities at Timothy Lake include:
- Camping: There are many campsites around the lake where visitors can stay overnight.
- Boating: People enjoy boating on the calm waters of the lake.
- Hiking: Trails around the lake offer great opportunities for walking and exploring nature.
- Horseback Riding: Some trails are suitable for horseback riding, allowing a unique way to see the area.
- Mountain Biking: Mountain bikers can find exciting trails to ride around the lake.
The lake is located within the Mount Hood National Forest, which means it is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery. This makes it a perfect destination for anyone who loves outdoor adventures.