Lincoln City, OR - Devils Lake, nestled on the western slopes of the Oregon Coast Range, is often the visitor's first glimpse of Lincoln City. The lake was created in 14,000 BC, when sand dunes and beach deposits blocked the lower end of the valley drained by the D River. Indian Bay was the original name for Devils Lake. In the 1800's the lake was renamed, stemming from a legend surrounding the mysterious disappearance of Indian warriors on the lake. According to the legend, a chief endeavored to win the maiden of his choice at the pow wow of the Moon of Abundance. He dispatched his warriors across the waters of Indian Bay, and immediately giant tentacles arose from the lake and swallowed up the canoes. Thereafter annual feasts and sacrifices were allegedly held on the lake’s shores to pacify the devil-creature.

The 120-foot (36.5 m) D River separates Devils Lake from the roaring ocean surf, and it holds the Guiness World's Record as "the shortest river in the world." Today, the lake offers visitors endless recreation ranging from the solitude of bird watching to the exhilaration of windsurfing. The cool refreshing water on Devils Lake beckons outdoor enthusiasts to partake in numerous recreational offerings. Activities include fishing, canoeing, kayaking, bumper-boating, rowing, or water- or jet-skiing. The inland winds over the lake offer novice or intermediate windsurfers a slightly calmer option than the ocean. For those who wish to be only spectators of boating, the Columbia Outboard Racing Association sponsors the Devils Lake Rocky Stone Memorial speed boat races each October.

Throughout the summer, the lake is a comfortable temperature and swimming is always popular. Sandpoint Park, the Regatta Grounds, and Holmes Road Park offer ideal spots to swim. Colorful and graceful sailboats are a common sight on the glistening waters during spring and summer.

Devils Lake provides a spectacular year-round display for bird watchers. The lake is one of the primary wintering areas for waterfowl along the Oregon Coast. There is an active bald eagle nest east of Devils Lake, and the pair is often seen feeding here. Coot, osprey and wood ducks are among the many species that visit the lake. A complete listing of the species is contained in the bird guide, downloadable at www.oregoncoast.org or available by mail by calling 800-452-2151.

The Blue Heron Landing offers the opportunity to enjoy the lake on various watercrafts, including paddleboats, pleasure boats, fishing boats, and kayaks. They also offer Moby Bumper Boats, Mountain Bike rentals, and a large selection of Wave Runners. Blue Heron Landing has a private picnic area and dockside store for fueling up the boat or renting fishing equipment.

The Devils Lake State Park and Campground, located on the west side of the lake, has a boat moorage and 100 spaces for tents and recreational vehicles. It is such a popular location that reservations are recommended during the summer and fall months.

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Lincoln City, located on the central Oregon Coast, is a scenic two-hour drive from the Portland International Airport through Oregon's premium wine country. For free visitor information, contact the Lincoln City Visitor and Convention Bureau at (800) 452-2151, (541) 996-1274, FAX (541) 994-2408, visit our website at www.oregoncoast.org or email us at events@lincolncity.org. The Lincoln City Visitor Center is located at 540 NE Highway 101.

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