Hills Creek Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Hills Creek Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Hills Creek Lake today is 16.3°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 60°F (15°C) to 65°F (18°C). The water is comfortable for most people, making it an ideal range for water sports enthusiasts. The temperature does not cause significant discomfort, and swimming will be pleasant for the majority. However, it's important to remember that prolonged exposure to the water can still lead to cooling, so it's essential to monitor the time spent in the water, especially for children or elderly people. It is important to note that these swimming tips and recommendations apply only in good weather. When the air temperature is below 68°F (20°C), and sometimes even below 77°F (25°C), swimming can be unpleasant even with relatively high water temperatures.
Water Temperature Chart Over the Last 30 Days
Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 5 | 16.3°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 6 | 16.8°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 7 | 16.9°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 8 | 16.9°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 9 | 16.8°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 10 | 16.6°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 11 | 16.9°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 12 | 17.3°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 13 | 12.2°C | 16.1°C | |
| OCT 14 | 12.2°C | 15.9°C | |
| OCT 15 | 12.2°C | 15.7°C | |
| OCT 16 | 12.2°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 17 | 12.2°C | 15.3°C | |
| OCT 18 | 12.2°C | 15.1°C | |
| OCT 19 | 12.2°C | 14.9°C |
* Current - Actual water temperature value
** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years
*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast
Actual nearshore water temperatures may fluctuate by several degrees from the reported values, especially following heavy rainfall or extended periods of strong winds. Certain wind patterns can cause colder, deeper waters to rise and replace the sun-warmed surface water, leading to noticeable variations.
Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that considers real-time water temperature changes, historical trends, key weather patterns, wind strength and direction, and air temperature specific to each region. Additionally, we incorporate data from other resorts to enhance accuracy.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 0°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| February | 0°C | 4°C | 8°C |
| March | 1°C | 5°C | 9°C |
| April | 7°C | 11°C | 15°C |
| May | 8°C | 15°C | 21°C |
| June | 12°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| July | 16°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| August | 16°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| September | 15°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| October | 10°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| November | 4°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| December | 3°C | 6°C | 9°C |
Hills Creek Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Hills Creek Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Hills Creek Lake, a reservoir in western Oregon, experiences a wide range of surface water temperatures through the year. In spring the lake is typically cool, with surface readings often from about 40–55°F (4–13°C) as snowmelt and chilly runoff dominate. By summer the upper layer warms most days, commonly reaching roughly 60–75°F (16–24°C) on warm afternoons, though exact temperatures vary with air temperature, sunlight and wind. In autumn the surface tends to decline to roughly 45–60°F (7–16°C) as cooler weather and turnover begin, and in winter temperatures frequently fall to the mid-30s to mid-40s°F (2–7°C) near the surface, with colder conditions at depth.
Swimming at Hills Creek Lake is generally allowed in recreational areas but is done at visitors’ own risk; many lake sites have no lifeguards and local rules or signage should be followed. Seasonal cold and sudden temperature changes, boat traffic, submerged timber and drop-offs make swimming potentially hazardous outside the warmest weeks, and water quality or access points can vary after storms or drawdowns. For safe enjoyment, swimmers should choose designated day-use spots, wear a life jacket if appropriate, and be mindful that comfortable surface temperatures are most likely in mid to late summer.