Wait Is Over: Carmen-Smith Sites To Reopen This Spring

MCKENZIE BRIDGE: After almost a decade of being closed to the public, popular recreation sites along the Upper McKenzie River are set to reopen on May 1, welcoming campers, hikers and day visitors to the newly upgraded facilities managed by the Eugene Water & Electric Board (EWEB).

The reopening of the Carmen-Smith recreation areas marks the culmination of a $10.8 million investment in public recreation infrastructure tied to the relicensing of the utility’s Carmen-Smith Hydroelectric Project. The sites had been closed to allow for major renovations at the Carmen Powerhouse.

Officials with the USDA Forest Service and Linn County Parks confirmed the sites will reopen to the public May 1, with additional campground reservations becoming available in the following weeks.

On that day, campsites at Trail Bridge Campground will open on a first-come, first-served basis with reservations available beginning April 1 through Recreation.gov for stays starting on May 14.

The Carmen-Smith Hydroelectric Project includes three dams and two power plants that generate between 6% and 9% of EWEB’s electricity, depending on water conditions. The project operates under a 40-year federal license issued by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, allowing operations to continue through at least 2059.

“For EWEB, this work reflects our commitment to the community and responsible stewardship of our hydroelectric projects,” said Patty Boyle, EWEB’s license deployment supervisor. “We are very excited to welcome people back to these special places.”

Public improvements include a mix of camping, hiking and water access.

The Carmen Diversion Reservoir, located near milepost 5.6 on the Clear Lake Cutoff, now features a new visitor pavilion, picnic areas and accessible restrooms at the day-use site. Trailhead improvements have also been completed at the Zig-Zag Trail and Beaver Marsh Trail, including an expanded parking area and upgraded pathways.

Smith Reservoir, which functions as a water storage system for power generation, received upgrades to its day-use area, including an improved boat ramp and enhancements to the Shoreline Trail. The remote Lakes End Campground – accessible only by boat – has been outfitted with new picnic tables, fire rings, kayak racks and composting toilets.

Trail Bridge Reservoir, about a mile downstream of Blue Pool’s trailhead, also received extensive improvements. Trail Bridge Campground now includes upgraded campsites, a new accessible site, improved boat ramp and updated sanitation systems. The adjacent day-use area features a new visitor pavilion, fishing platform and picnic facilities.

EWEB says the recreation upgrades are part of a broader agreement developed in coordination with fisheries and wildlife agencies, Native American tribes, environmental groups and recreation organizations. In addition to visitor amenities, the licensing process includes ongoing investments in fish and wildlife habitat protection.

In the weeks leading up to the reopening, crews have focused on cleanups from a December windstorm, testing facilities, and installing new signage.

People can contact the McKenzie River Ranger Station or visit the Willamette National Forest recreation website for more information.