Elkhorn Valley Recreation Site - Little North Santiam River

Elkhorn Valley Recreation Site is one of many amazing settings, located along the scenic Little North Fork of the Santiam River within the Little North Santiam Recreation Area.

This is an interesting swimming location surrounded by steep rocky slopes and vertical cliffs. Rapids form mini-waterfalls cascading into the deep swimming hole with the emerald clear water. The water is so transparent that every rock and pebble can be counted on the bottom of the pool.

Managed by BLM, Elkhorn Valley offers day-use options and activities including picnicking, hiking, fishing, swimming, rock and cliff jumping. The one-mile River Trail along the river gives hikers access to other beautiful swimming holes. On the trail, you will find a beehive-shaped rock known as King Tut's Tomb and two caves.

This site provides excellent camping opportunities in the secluded spots for all who plan to visit other places along the Little North Fork of the Santiam River including Opal Creek Wilderness. There are 23 family campsites with fire pits, picnic tables, and tent pads. A reservation in advance via Recreation.gov is highly recommended.

There are many swimming and picnicking places along North Fork County Road including North Fork County Park, Bear Creek County Park, Canyon Creek Recreation Area, Salmon Falls County Park, and the Opal Creek Wilderness oasis - Three Pools Recreation Area.

Open: May - September from dawn to dusk
Managed: BLM
Location: Little North Santiam Recreation Area

Services: Vault toilets, potable water, garbage service, picnic sites
Activities: Swimming, rock jumping, fishing, hiking
Accommodations: Campground, 23 family campsites with fire pit, some with a barbecue grill.

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
Popularity: Moderate to high

Elevation: 900 ft (274 m)

Elkhorn Valley is located:

10.6 miles east of Lyons
34 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