The Chetco River originates from tributaries in the Klamath Mountains, flowing 56 miles through the remote southwestern region of Oregon before emptying into the Pacific Ocean at Brookings. The river carries minerals from the Upper Chetco River area, known for its numerous gold-quartz veins and serpentinite rocks.

Besides rockhounding, the Chetco River offers a range of other activities including fishing, swimming, hiking, whitewater kayaking, camping, and picnicking.

Fishing: The river is known for its winter steelhead run (December to February) and fall Chinook salmon season (September to December).

Swimming: The lower section boasts excellent swimming sites with easy access to the riverbank. Some areas in the upper Chetco, located in the Kalmiopsis Wilderness, may require a challenging hike to reach the swimming holes.

Hiking and Kayaking: The river’s rugged terrain provides opportunities for hiking and whitewater kayaking.

Camping and Picnicking: Numerous spots along the river are perfect for camping and picnicking, offering a chance to enjoy the scenic beauty of the area.

Chetco River Rockhounding

The Chetco River is home to extensive gravels bars, particularly in its lower section. These areas offer easy access and excellent materials for rockhounding. White quartz and jasper are abundant here, with occasional finds of carnelian agate, petrified wood, and serpentine.

Typically, quartz is milky-white and sometimes contains mineral impurities, while large pieces of green, brown, and red brecciated jasper are scattered throughout the river gravels.

Several excellent spots along the lower Chetco River allow you to drive directly to the riverbank, including Social Security Bar, Alfred Loeb State Park, Miller Bar, Nook Bar, Redwood Bar, Gardner Bar, South Fork, and Low Water Bridge.

Several campgrounds are available along the Chetco River.

Alfred A. Loeb State Park is a fantastic spot for camping by the river. It offers 53 electrical sites and 3 rustic log cabins, one campsite and one cabin of which are accessible. Each site features a picnic table and a fire ring. On-site amenities include firewood sales, hot showers, and flush toilets. Reservations are required and can be made through the Oregon State Parks Reservation System.

Other campgrounds including Redwood Bar Campground, Nook Bar Campground, and South Fork Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. They offer fewer amenities compared to Alfred A. Loeb State Park.

For additional lodging options, the nearest accommodations are available in Brookings.

Lodging in Brookings

Affordable vacation rentals for short and long term stay in Brookings