Canyon Creek - A Swimming Spot on the Little North Santiam River

Surrounded by old-growth forest, Canyon Creek Recreation Site is a beautiful destination perfect for spending an entire day. Managed by the Bureau of Land Management, Canyon Creek offers a variety of recreational opportunities including picnicking, camping, swimming, and rock jumping.

The site boasts a large open swimming area on a bend of the Little North Fork of the Santiam River. The slow river current, broad sandy, and pebble beach make it a popular spot on hot summer days.

A large rock across the river is used for jumping into the water. Small rapids upstream connect a few small pools that feed into a bigger pool, perfect for kids to use as natural water slides. Canyon Creek also features a small waterfall on the opposite side of the river.

The site features several picnic spots with tables and a hand pump for potable water.

There are many other swimming and picnicking places within Little North Santiam Recreation Area including North Fork County Park, Bear Creek County Park, Elkhorn Valley Recreation Site, Salmon Falls County Park, and the Opal Creek Wilderness oasis - Three Pools Recreation Area.

Open: May - September from dawn to dusk
Managed by: Bureau Land of Management

Amenities: Vault toilets, potable water, garbage service, picnic sites
Activities: Swimming, rock jumping, fishing, hiking

Distance from the parking: Short
Road access: Any passenger vehicle
Day-use fees: Yes or Interagency Senior/Access/Military Pass
Dogs: Must be on a leash

Accommodations: Elkhorn Valley Campsite

Affordable vacation rentals for short and long term stay at Salem

Elevation: 1,000 ft (305 m)

Canyon Creek is located:

33 miles east of Salem
78 miles southeast of Portland
81 miles northeast of Eugene.

Swimming hole rating: 4 out of 5
Body of Water: River
Water quality: Transparent
Current (summer): Light to Moderate
Depth: Deep and shallow
Beach: Sand and river rocks
Water T° (summer): Cool