Freeway Lakes County Park has three lakes on either side of Interstate 5, south of Albany. For a first shore-fishing trip, start with the two lakes east of I-5. If you want to fish the larger West Lake, plan around a small boat and check whether the connecting water is passable before you launch.
Park off Three Lakes Road SE
Use 6000 Three Lakes Road SE, Albany, OR, the park address in the Oregon Department of Transportation site inventory. From Albany, take US 20 east to Spicer Road and continue south on Three Lakes Road. From the OR 34 interchange, head east and turn north on Seven Mile Lane, then right onto Three Lakes Road. Use the signed county park lot and follow posted access signs. The interstate shoulder and nearby driveways are outside the public park approach.
The Linn County parks inventory lists a boat ramp, restrooms and picnicking. Plan a daylight visit and follow posted park hours and fees. Call Linn County Parks at 541-967-3917 to check lot and ramp conditions, charges, or the route from the parking area if you need step-free access.
Choose a bank or launch
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Willamette Zone guide points bank anglers to the two lakes east of I-5. Start with East Lake if you are following the trout schedule. Middle Lake gives you a second shore option if your first spot is crowded or choked with vegetation. Look for firm footing and room to cast behind you. Keep the launch lane clear and fish within signed public areas.
Use the county ramp for a small boat. If West Lake is your goal, ask the county about depth and vegetation between the lakes before committing to the crossing. The Oregon State Marine Board’s boating handbook lists a 10 mph limit for motorboats on all three lakes. Wear a life jacket in cold water, check the Waterway Access Permit rules even for a short kayak, and clean, drain and dry the boat after taking it out.
Time your trip for trout or warmwater fish
Check the ODFW stocking schedule for FREEWAY LK, EAST. The schedule identifies East Lake specifically, and dates can move. Try a small spinner along an open bank or a float set just above submerged weeds. As the water warms, ODFW lists largemouth bass, bluegill and crappie. A small jig along a weed edge gives you a way to fish those fish-holding edges without dragging through the thickest growth.
Most anglers age 12 and older need an Oregon fishing license. Check the Willamette Zone rules before keeping fish and the current ODFW report before a stocking-based trip.
Two Albany alternatives for shore fishing
Try Timber Linn Lake if you want an agency-listed wheelchair-accessible fishing platform. Waverly Lake is another shore option with two public parking approaches. Find more trips in the Oregon guide index and Destinations, or browse the Outdoor Adventures shop before your outing.
Map of the Three Lakes Road approach
The map uses the county park’s Three Lakes Road address. Follow signs to the public lot and ramp when you arrive.
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