2020 Map of Round Butte Dam

About this map

Round Butte Dam stands as the central engineering landmark of this Jefferson County landscape, where the confluence of three major river systems creates a complex watery geography. The impounded waters of Lake Billy Chinook and Lake Simtustus fill the deep incisions of the Metolius Canyon, Deschutes Canyon, and the Crooked River. This 2020 survey illustrates how modern infrastructure and conservation efforts define the region, with the Crooked River National Grassland spanning large portions of the terrain. Unique landforms such as The Island and The Peninsula are preserved between the high canyon walls, while flat-topped features like Metolius Bench and Canadian Bench provide a stark contrast to the surrounding gorges. Remote access is facilitated by the Lake Billy Chinook State Airport and a network of secondary roads including SW Dynamite Ln and SW Pixie Ln.