Little North Fork Swimming Spot | Little North Santiam River

The Little North Fork of the Santiam River offers a wonderful recreation experience within 40 minutes driving from the city of Salem. You will enjoy a scenic river landscape, excellent hiking, refreshing swimming, and exciting fishing at Little North Fork Swimming Hole not far away from North Fork County Park.

Park your car along North Fork Road and find a trailhead. Short but a little steep hike is required. The 200-foot trail runs down to the secluded swimming spot. The bank of the river is lined with small boulders and large pebbles. A beautiful clear swimming hole has both shallow for kids and deep for swimming and diving spots. The bottom of this part of river consists of large uneven boulders.

Cautions: Watch for poison oak.

This swimming area is a part of the Little North Fork Recreation Area which include several recreation areas and campgrounds. Camping is not permitted here but you can find a tranquil spot for your camp on the river bank at Elkhorn Valley Campsite, Bear Creek Campground, or Shady Cove Campground.

The nearest Lodging is available in Salem, 29 miles away.

Lodging in Salem

Open: May 1st - October 31 from 6 am to 10 pm
Managed by: Marion County

Amenities: None
Activities: Swimming, hiking, fishing, rock jumping, rope swinging

Distance from the parking: 200 ft
Road access: Any passenger vehicle
Day-use fees: Yes

Elevation: 760 ft (232 m)

This spot on the Little North Fork is located:

• 5.5 miles northeast of Lyons
• 29 miles east of Salem
• 74 miles southeast of Portland.

Water Characteristics | Show More