• Salmon Creek Falls is a wide bedrock cascade flowing into clear pools, surrounded by old-growth forest
Salmon Creek Falls is located in the Willamette National Forest, about 4.7 miles east of Oakridge in Oregon’s Cascade Mountains.
Unlike towering waterfalls such as Salt Creek Falls, Salmon Creek is a wide, low cascade that spreads across solid bedrock in a broad, powerful sheet of water.
The main drop is about 8 feet tall and nearly 100 feet wide, although some sources estimate the height between 5 and 10 feet depending on water levels.
Several smaller cascades continue downstream, creating a series of deep pools that can glow blue-green on sunny afternoons.
Old-growth forest surrounds the creek, with spring wildflowers along the rocky banks and wild thimbleberries and hazelnuts ripening during summer.
The combination of flowing water, forest scenery, and peaceful swimming holes makes this one of the most enjoyable stops near Oakridge.
Beyond waterfall viewing, the area offers opportunities for camping, fishing, swimming, and hiking, making the Salmon Creek Falls area a great destination for a relaxing day in the Cascade Mountains.
Salmon Creek Falls Camping, Lodging, and Vacation Rentals
Salmon Creek Falls Campground has 14 primitive sites, all first-come, first-served. No reservations.
You get fire rings, picnic tables, vault toilets, and hand-pumped water. Bring your own drinking water to be safe. RVs up to 25 feet fit, but there are no hookups.
Each site allows 6 people, 2 vehicles, and 2 tents. Camping is capped at 14 days in any 60-day period, and chainsaws are banned.
Oakridge sits 5 miles west for food and lodging. Eugene, about 48 miles away, offers far more choices.
Affordable vacation rentals for short and long-term stays at Oakridge
Affordable vacation rentals for short and long-term stays at Eugene
Salmon Creek Falls | Facts
Open: Year-round for day-use from 6 am to 10 pm; campground from late April to mid-September
Managed by: U.S. Forest Service
Amenities: Vault toilets, picnic tables, fire pits, and garbage service
Activities: Swimming, cliff jumping, hiking, fishing, camping, photography
Day-use fees: Yes, or Interagency Senior/Access/Military Pass
Elevation: 1,440 ft (439 m)
Salmon Creek Falls is located:
- 5 miles east of Oakridge
- 48 miles southeast of Eugene
- 100 miles southwest of Bend.
Adventures Nearby
Directions to Salmon Creek Falls
From I-5,
- Take exit 188 in Eugene for Highway 58 East
- Drive on Highway 58 southeast for about 35 miles to Crestview Street (traffic signal) in Oakridge
- Turn left onto Crestview Street and go 0.2 miles to E 1st Street
- Turn right onto E 1st Street (City Center) which becomes Salmon Creek Road and continue 4.8 miles to Salmon Creek Falls Campground on the right
The day-use area is located inside the campground.