The Skinny on Dipping into Oswego Lake

Oswego Lake: What’s New, What’s Not

Ever since a March 2025 ruling there has been a lot of opinions,  chatter and confusion about Oswego Lake becoming “public.” All this was amplified by the announcement that the lake would be closed to public this upcoming July 4 weekend. 

 To help cut through the noise, Lake O Magazine put together this short-n-sweet guide to what's changing  - and what's NOT changing - as we dive deeper into the summer lake season.

What HAS Changed

Public Access Now Available:  Oswego Lake is now recognized as a public waterway. That means anyone can now legally access the lake, not just Lake Oswego residents.

New Public Launch Point: The City of Lake Oswego has designated Lower Millennium Plaza Park as the access point for the public. You can launch non-motorized watercraft only (think kayaks, canoes, and SUPs—no motors) up to 18 feet in length. There’s no ramp access, so you’ll need to carry your gear down a set of stepped platforms. (And if you parked in free parking on 1st street, you'll also need to lug it up and down several full flights of steps and across a train track!)

State Rules Now Apply: Once you're on the lake, it’s just like any other Oregon waterway. That means following Oregon Marine Board rules—bring life jackets, a whistle, and get a waterway access permit if your craft is over 10 feet long. (Find more here)

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What HASN'T Changed

​Motorized Boats Are Still a No-Go for Most: You can't launch a motorboat unless you’re a shareholder or live in a property with a lake easement. That’s because, according to the Lake Oswego Corporation “ All craft on the lake must have appropriate permits and documentation required by the state. In addition, all craft entering through our access points still need to be tagged and licensed by the Lake Oswego Corporation.

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And the only people who can get tagged and licensed by LOC are - you guessed it -  people with either easements or who are shareholders. Get more info from the Lake Oswego Corporation here.

Private Swim Parks Stay Private: The swim parks on Oswego Lake are a nostalgic throwback to 50's summer camp, complete with the long wooden piers, picnic. tables and more.  However, there is no change in policy for access to these parks. They remain open to residents as outlined here:   

• The Lake Oswego Swim Park (run by the City) still requires proof of Lake Oswego residency for entry.
• The Lake Grove Swim Park (run by the Lake Oswego School District) will continue to allow access to the following groups only all LOSD students 
• Swim lessons continue to be open to all LO kiddos
• Non-LOSD students who reside within the boundaries of the former Lake Grove School District (prior to its merger with the Oswego School District in 1953) (you can call them and tell them your address and they can check for you). 

The good news for those looking for a refreshing dip? There are several terrific options in and around Lake Oswego.

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Easement/Shareholder Fees Still Apply: Last but certainly not least (especially if you are one of the folks footing the bill!), if your home comes with lake access, you’ll still pay annual fees to access the easements, and, if applicable (such as for those lakeside properties) a $7,500 transfer fee to the Lake Corp when buying/selling your home. ​