• Canton Creek Campground sits at the confluence of Canton and Steamboat Creeks
• It features a deep swimming hole surrounded by large rocks and ledges
Canton Creek Campground is a relatively small campground located in the Umpqua National Forest, where Canton Creek flows into Steamboat Creek, just a half-mile before Steamboat Creek enters the North Umpqua River.
The Canton Creek Day-Use and Campground Area is an excellent destination for swimming, hiking, mountain biking, whitewater rafting, picnicking, and sunbathing.
Things to Do at Canton Creek Campground
Swimming
Surrounded by large rocks and rock ledges, a deep swimming hole is located just a few yards downstream from the confluence of the creeks. The water is warm during the summer months and comfortable for swimming from June through August.
A swimming area is easily accessible from the campground and day-use parking area. From the parking lot, walk upstream to the covered picnic gazebo and the metal structure that used to measure water levels in the creek.
Another great site with opportunities for swimming and cliff jumping, Little Falls is located 0.7 miles upstream.
Fishing
Since Steamboat and Canton Creeks are the main steelhead trout spawning tributaries of the North Umpqua River, fishing is not allowed. Fishing is available in the small ponds and lakes, as well as in the North Umpqua River. Natural lakes or artificial ponds are stocked with rainbow trout by ODFW.
Hiking
There are three hiking trails totaling 7.5 miles. The trails are great for mountain bikers, hikers, and equestrians to enjoy their favorite activities in the impressive scenery of the Umpqua National Forest.
Fuller Lake Trail (#1543)
Easy | 5.2 miles out & back | 200 feet elevation gain
The trail is within the Bulldog Roadless Recreation Area. The trail leads to Fuller Lake, which is often stocked with Eastern brook and rainbow trout. There are huckleberries in August. Free overnight camping is available. The trail can be used for hiking, mountain biking, and horse riding.
Bulldog Rock Trail (#1534)
Difficult | 5.2 miles out & back | 500 feet elevation gain
It is located within the Bulldog Roadless Recreation Area. Travel through Bullpup Lake, rock outcropping, meadows, and blue huckleberries in the late summer. The trail is open for hiking, mountain biking, horse riding, and OHV motorcycle riding. Camping is available near the South Trailhead.
Wild Rose Trail (#1535)
Moderate | 2.4 miles out & back | 400 feet elevation gain
The high elevation trail (5,000 feet) connects the Wild Rose campground and Illahee Rock Lookout. The trail is open for hiking, mountain biking, horse riding, and OHV motorcycle riding.
Canton Creek Campground: Camping, Lodging & Vacation Rentals
The campground has 5 campsites with fire rings and picnic tables. There is also a covered pavilion for day visitors with picnic tables and grills. The campground has a bathroom with a flush toilet and running water, but it is not wheelchair accessible. Two water spigots are located at both ends of the campsite.
Reservation through recreation.gov is highly recommended
If you are looking for more comfortable accommodations, you can find plenty in Roseburg, 40 miles away.
Affordable vacation rentals for short and long-term stays in Roseburg
Video
Canton Creek Campground | Facts
Open: May 16 - October
Managed by: U.S. Forest Service
Amenities: Flush toilet, drinking water, covered picnic pavilion, no garbage disposal
Activities: Swimming, hiking, picnicking
Distance from the trailhead: Short
Road access: Any passenger vehicle
Day-use fees: Free
Elevation (waterfall): 1,150 ft (351 m)
Steamboat Falls is located:
- 39 miles east of Roseburg
- 106 miles southeast of Eugene
- 137 miles southwest of Bend.
Swimming hole rating: 4 out of 5
Body of Water: Creek
Water quality: Transparent
Current: Light to moderate
Depth: Deep and shallow
Beach: Cliffs, rock slabs
Water T° (summer): Cool (70°F in August)
Adventures Nearby
Directions to Canton Creek Campground
From Roseburg,
- Take OR-138 East (Diamond Lake Boulevard) and follow to Steamboat Creek Road (Forest Service Road 38) for about 38.7 miles
- Turn left onto Steamboat Creek Road and continue 0.5 miles to Canton Creek Campground on the right.