Elk River Swimming

• Elk River is nationally designated as Wild and Scenic
• The area offers an opportunity for rockhounding and swimming

SwimmingRockhounding OregonBoatingFishing OregonBiking Oregon



The Elk River is a scenic waterway, originated in the Salmon Mountain and Grassy Knob Wilderness areas, flowing through the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest for approximately 30 miles before emptying into the Pacific Ocean, one mile south of Cape Blanco and four miles north of Port Orford.

The river is renowned for its exceptional water quality, striking emerald-green hue, and picturesque wild landscape, earning it a national designation as a Wild and Scenic River.

Access to the lower segment of the Elk River is limited due to private land ownership. The upper 17-mile portion, from the confluence of the North and South Fork Elk River to the Elk River Fish Hatchery, is classified as recreational.

Additionally, a 2-mile segment of the North Fork above the confluence of the North and South Fork is classified as wild. Elk River Road is included in the Wild Rivers Coast Scenic Bikeway route.

Elk River Rockhounding & Gold Panning

The Elk River, along with the South Fork of the Sixes River, drain the areas of the Grassy Knob Wilderness and and Copper-Salmon Wilderness. These areas feature the Myrtle group, a geological formation containing fossils within shales and sandstones, dating back 145 to 66 million years.

In the riverbed, loose pieces of shale with plant remains, milky quartz, and chert can be found. The quartz is primarily of the milky variety, while the chert varies in color from gray and green to yellowish and red, with the reddish varieties being the most common. Gold particles are also present in the gravel bars or at bedrock within the river bends.



Elk River Rockhounding

Collecting of small amounts of rocks and minerals for personal use is allowed along the 17-mile segment of the river from the confluence of the North and South Fork of the Elk River to the Elk River Fish Hatchery. However, the river and its tributaries within a quarter of of a mile from Elk River Fish Hatchery up to the junction of North and South Forks, then up on North Fork to the falls are closed for recreational mining.

Fishing on the Elk River

The Elk River is known for its wild winter steelhead, fall Chinook salmon, and sea-run cutthroat runs. While much of the river section, administered by the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, is closed to angling, the two miles below Bald Mountain Creek are open for fishing. Additionally, approximately 13 miles of private lands below the Elk River Hatchery are accessible for fishing by drift boat. For up-to-date fishing reports during the salmon and steelhead seasons, anglers can contact the Elk River Hatchery at 541-332-7025.

Elk River Swimming & Other Water Activities

The Elk River offers numerous swimming spots along the recreation sites and campgrounds. The pristine emerald-green water remains cool even during the peak summer heat, averaging 65°F in August. Besides swimming, the river is popular for rafting and kayaking.



Elk River Site 1

Located 14 miles from Port Orford, this spot provides easy access to the river. Visitors can drive to the gravel beach or park near the road and hike 30 yards down. The site features a large gravel and sand beach with shallow areas and a few deeper spots.

GPS: N 42°42.708' W 124°22.473' | 42.7118, -124.3745

Elk River Site 2

Situated 17 miles from Port Orford, this site features a wide pebble beach extending 200 yards along a river bend, with a bedrock on the opposite bank. Two deep swimming holes are located between rapids, and the river's bottom is partially sandy. The site is popular due to its large beach, swimming areas, and easy access, allowing any car to drive down to the parking near the beach.

GPS: N 42°42.531' W 124°19.938' | 42.70885, -124.3323



Elk River Swimming
Site 2

 

Sunshine Bar Campground

Sunshine Bar is a dispersed 6-site campground with picnic tables and fire pits, located 18 miles east of Port Orford.

An easy trail begins on the right-hand of the parking area and campground. Hike 70 yards down to the river to a small secluded beach. The bank consists of pebble and beautiful rock formations. The swimming area contains deep and shallow spots.

There are two vault toilets, but no drinking water and garbage disposal. Day-use and campground are free.

GPS: N 42°42.745' W 124°18.645' | 42.7124, -124.31075



Elk River Swimming - Sunshine Bar Campground
Sunshine Bar Campground

 

Jacuzzi Rocks Swimming

Jacuzzi Rocks is a picturesque and memorable site situated in a beautiful forest setting, 21 miles east of Port Orford. This unique location features a 180-foot-long channel carved by the river between narrow bedrock walls. The water here is exceptionally clear, displaying a deep green color that allows visibility to the bottom.

A small gravel beach is located downstream, providing a spot for relaxing by the river. The deeper sections between the canyon walls are perfect for swimming, with flat rocks serving as ideal jumping-off spots.

Park your car at the road and find a very steep 200-foot trail following right and down. Hikers need to exercise caution while navigating this path. The upper portion of the pathway is rope-assisted to help with the descent.

GPS: N 42°42.849' W 124°17.014' | 42.71415, -124.283567



Jacuzzi Rocks Swimming - Elk River
Jacuzzi Rocks

 

Elk River Site 3

Between Butler Bar Campground and Jacuzzi Rocks lies one of the most beautiful settings along the Elk River corridor. This area offers shaded spots ideal for camping and picnicking, providing a tranquil escape in a lush forest setting.

The road leading to this spot is rough and may not be suitable for all vehicles. If your car cannot handle the rough road, it is advisable to park near the road and hike down to the river.

GPS: N 42°43.190' W 124°16.354' | 42.719833, -124.272567



Butler Bar Campground

Butler Bar Campground is a primitive, 7-site campground located 22 miles east of Port Orford. This rustic campsite offers a serene setting with essential amenities for a comfortable camping experience. Each of the seven campsites is equipped with a picnic table and a fire pit.

The shallow river bends at this location, creating a deep, beautiful swimming hole downstream from the bridge, just before the rapids. The beach can be accessed by a short road on the left side of the bridge before crossing it.

Both day-use and camping at Butler Bar Campground are free. There is a vault toilet, no drinking water, and garbage disposal.

GPS: N 42°43.551' W 124°16.254' | 42.72585, -124.2709

Butler Bar Campground - Elk River
Butler Bar Campground

 

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