Lopez Cottage on the McKenzie
From the spring-fed waters of Clear Lake in the High Cascades, the McKenzie River flows south over and under volcanic rock before bending west, rolling through the foothills and eventually settling out into the Willamette River just north of Eugene. Its cold, clear channels provide critical habitat for endangered, threatened and sensitive species including bull trout, cutthroat trout and Chinook salmon.
On the McKenzie near Finn Rock sits a 37-acre property that belonged to writers Barry Lopez and Debra Gwartney and that is currently managed by the McKenzie River Trust. Residents stay just a short walk from the river in a cottage adjacent to the main house where Lopez lived for 50 years.
Writing desk in the cottage
Ceramic tiles at the Barry Lopez house
Office decorations at the Barry Lopez house
Barry Lopez's desk at the Barry Lopez house
Ferns in the woods at the Barry Lopez house
Photo of the McKenzie River Trail by Bonnie Moreland
Photo of the McKenzie River by David Cobb
Kitchen in the cottage
The cottage living room offers a beautiful view of the McKenzie River
Details
- There are two houses on the property: the main house and a guest cottage. Residents stay in private lodging in the guest cottage, which has a full kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, living room and a writing room facing the river.
- Laundry facilities available in the main house.
- Both buildings are heated in cooler months, with fans available during summer.
- Wireless internet and generally reliable cell service.
- Residents provide their own transportation, food and laptop. Bedding, towels and basic cleaning supplies provided.
- The property is situated on Hwy 126, a primary route connecting western and central Oregon. Road noise may be an issue for sensitive sleepers. A white noise machine and ear plugs are available.
- Access to walking trails through the forest, which is recovering from the 2020 Holiday Farm Fire.
- Detailed information about facilities, policies and the closest nearby services will be provided before each resident’s stay.
Opportunities
Public Humanities Collaboratory
PRAx designs residencies around the unique needs of each participant, including accessibility for individuals with disabilities in keeping with OSU’s commitments. For questions related to accessibility and accommodations, please contact Joy Jensen at [email protected].